This wine instantly transports you to picking blackberries in a back field in late august. But then once in your mouth is decidedly lighter with cranberry, but the warm spices are still very present along with more brambly notes of huckleberry jam with its savory sweetness. The finish is Earl Grey tea leaves with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg that gently lingers.

This wine is a true Willamette Valley blend and ticks all the boxes for delicious Pinot Noir - bright fruit, savory spice, mouthwatering finish and a perfect companion to such a wide variety of foods. All of our vineyards lend a helping hand to this blend. I make earth, the vineyard designates, the salud and auction wine first, and then all the remaining barrels are blended to make willamette valley, so it is a kitchen sink.  But all the ferments and barrels are treated with equal diligence, so it is based on my preference, so of course, if someone else were to decide, they might make entirely different decisions and blends. All lots are fermented as whole cluster and with whatever yeast blows in the door. Each lot is gently trod by foot several times with at least one time by me! With over 30 lots to do I get a workout by the end of harvest. There are some new barrels in this blend but most are matured in older barrels so the influence of oak is minimal. Cheers!