New Release Pinot Noirs & When to Drink Them
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As we begin sharing more of our 2019 Pinot Noirs with you, we often find ourselves remarking on the comparison between the 2018s and 2019s. The 2018 vintage shows the darker, richer side of the Willamette Valley, while the 2019s highlight brighter fruit and elegant structure. Don’t worry, you don’t have to choose sides here – both vintages offer delicious examples of cool-climate Pinot Noir.
When comparing the two vintages, the talk often turns to ageability. There is often a perception that wines that are "bigger" need more time and age longer than lighter, more elegant wines, but I often find the opposite to be true. On the whole, though, I think balanced wines with lively flavors and youthful acidity can be delightful in their youth and gain great complexity with age. These are the kind of Pinots I like to make (and drink). With wines like these you can enjoy the dark side of the 2018s or the brighter 2019s without agonizing over whether it’s the right time.
Sometimes I’ll open a young Pinot and just have one glass, deliberately saving the rest for a night or two later to watch it develop. If I like it even more after a few days, then I’ll know I should wait a little longer before I open any other bottles of that wine. Other times the liveliness of a younger wine is the perfect foil for richer foods, balancing out the meal with their fresher flavors. And it’s okay if we don’t agree; enjoy these wines in their youth or after a decade or more, you’re in charge!
TASTE THESE VINTAGES IN OUR TASTING ROOM
Our winery team is excited to host you and your friends in a variety of wine tasting experiences available on TOCK
During the Classic Tasting experience, you will sip, savor, and enjoy your way through a seated tasting of our wine, with a focus on Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Each wine offers a snapshot into our vineyards, winemaking, and ethos. Seasonal snack add-ons are available for pre-order.
The Tour & Tasting experience is an immersive and unique behind the scenes journey that begins with a guided walk (weather permitting) into our vineyard, followed by a tour into our cellar, and culminates in a relaxed seated tasting, showcasing our Chardonnay and Pinot Noir offerings, and optional seasonal snacks by request. This Estate-focused walking tour and seated tasting is a perfect way to enjoy a memorably interactive afternoon.
Reserve your wine experience today! We look forward to enjoying an afternoon with you.