At a glance

Producer

Willamette Valley Vineyards

Region

Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$28-$35 USD

Tasting profile

Fragrant red cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, rose petal, subtle baking spice, and earth tones. Silky mouthfeel, vibrant finish.

Evolution: Short-term aging will integrate tannins and acidity, develop more savory, forest floor, truffle, and dried fruit notes.

At peak: At peak, expect expressive red fruit with complex undertones of spice, earth, and subtle oak influence.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, lively; hallmark Willamette acidity.

Tannins

Supple, moderate, smoothening with short cellaring.

Alcohol

Medium (generally 13.0% - 14.0% ABV).

Aging potential

Medium-term; will develop complexity and supple texture but not for long-term cellaring.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2029

Optimal window

2025 to 2031

Current status

Recently released and very youthful; primary fruit-forward aromas and flavors dominant.

Current condition

Vibrant, fresh, and tannic; suitable for short-term cellaring but enjoyable if decanted now.

2023 Barrel Select Pinot Noir is crafted for early accessibility but benefits from a few years in bottle. It enters its expressive phase within 2-3 years post-release, peaks as tertiary notes emerge but before fruit declines, and is best consumed before a decade elapses.

Food pairing

Seared duck breast, pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, roast chicken, or lentil stew.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Extensive sustainable farming (cover crops, reduced chemical use, biodiversity), water conservation, renewable energy initiatives, eco-friendly packaging (lightweight bottles, locally sourced materials), and significant waste reduction programs.

Willamette Valley Vineyards is a sustainability leader in Oregon and the US: LIVE and Salmon-Safe certifications affirm robust low-impact farming and environmental stewardship, while B Corp recognizes wider social and community responsibility. Winery operations deploy solar power, rainwater collection, and recyclable packaging. For US markets, the carbon footprint is particularly low, while thoughtful logistics help reduce shipment impact internationally.