2022 Willamette Valley Vineyards "Founders' Reserve" Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Winemaker Notes: Dramatic dark ruby hues play in the glass. Black cherry, licorice and red currant provide myriad fruit aromas alongside sweet French oak notes of star anise and baking spice. A sweet and lightly spiced palate includes candied cranberries, cola, dried plums, cracked pepper and white pepper flavors. The present tannins and French oak barrel regiment allow this wine to age up to eight vintages, offering an opportunity to cellar the wine and rediscover it years later.

Willamette Valley Vineyards was established in 1983 when Oregon native Jim Bernau planted Pinot Noir in an overgrown pioneer plum orchard in the Salem Hills, watering his vines by hand using 17 lengths of 75’ garden hose. He was supported by a dedicated group of wine enthusiasts committed to producing the highest quality Pinot Noirs while being good stewards of the land. As a tribute to these individuals, we have created this special blend of Pinot Noir sourced exclusively from the Willamette Valley.