When you focus on one grape, you get pretty good at it. This works in the Old World with Burgundy (Pinot Noir), Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Tuscany (Sangiovese), as well as in the New World with Napa Valley (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Australia (Syrah). In Oregon, more than 60 percent of the vines are planted to Pinot Noir, making Oregon the most focused wine-producing … [Read more...] about Brilliance of Oregon Pinot Noir
Mercer Canyons 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, $14
Best Buy! The Mercer family continues to grow its reach while promoting the Horse Heaven Hills growing region with this second label that’s available across the country in 47 states thanks to its partnership with industry giant Southern Wine and Spirits. Dead Canyon Vineyard and vaunted Spice Cabinet fruit are funneled into an oak program of French and American barrels for 17 … [Read more...] about Mercer Canyons 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, $14
Hinman Vineyards 2014 Pinot Gris, Oregon, $12
Best Buy! Doyle Hinman proved to be a trailblazer in the southern Willamette Valley, and the Chambers family continues to honor his accomplishments more than two decades after buying his inaugural brand with this Pinot Gris that’s made in an Oregon style. Pleasing aromatics of brioche, peach pie, apple blossom and hominy lead to a pleasing body featuring orchard fruit flavors … [Read more...] about Hinman Vineyards 2014 Pinot Gris, Oregon, $12
Delfino Vineyards 2014 Tempranillo, Umpqua Valley, $26
Jim and Terri Delfino farm their vineyard a short drive from famed Tempranillo producer Abacela, and this is another example of how the delicious Iberian variety has found a home in Southern Oregon. They’ve partnered with winemaker Denise Aaron on this rather hedonistic Temp built upon the shoulders of an all-French oak program with 25% new barrels, leading to aromas of brownie … [Read more...] about Delfino Vineyards 2014 Tempranillo, Umpqua Valley, $26
Lone Birch 2015 Riesling, Yakima Valley, $12
Best Buy! One of Washington state’s largest vineyards in the state’s oldest American Viticultural Area continues to produce delicious aromatic whites for the Miller family, and their latest Riesling is a fun one. Tropical aromas mimic Juicy Fruit gum, peach and Mandarin orange with touches of jasmine, spearmint and a whiff of petrol. Inside, its bright entry comes with flavors … [Read more...] about Lone Birch 2015 Riesling, Yakima Valley, $12