Yamhill-Carlton is one of the most interesting AVAs in the six small northern Willamette Valley growing areas. Like nearby AVAs, it is based primarily on elevation. But instead of focusing on a particular landform (such as the Dundee Hills, McMinnville and Eola-Amity Hills AVAs are), Yamhill-Carlton has a low-lying island in the middle that is not in the appellation. Thus, the towns of Yamhill and Carlton – the region’s namesake – are not in the AVA. This vineyard is on the western slope of the Coast Range, just 40 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The resulting wine opens with aromas of strawberry-rhubarb jam, black truffle, forest floor and black cherry – all classic examples of Yamhill-Carlton fruit. On the palate, it offers a firm entry of dark cherry, red currant and ripe strawberry, all backed with tannins that offer a fair bit of grip.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 219 cases
Alcohol: 13%
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