Picking up with wine regions around the world. I will continue with those in the US, specifically Oregon and Washington state (California, I will take up next time). Both of these states produce wines in many different areas, but I will be focusing on one wine growing region in each state. In general, Oregon is known for its Pinot Noirs that come from the Willamette Valley and Washington state is known for its reds that come from the southeast corner of the state (a collection of several valleys). More details will follow below. Clinton Wine & Spirits sells wines from both states that can be had in Billy’s range, but there are some MUCH better ones to be had in Steve’s price range.
In Washington state, they grow grapes around the Puget Sound and the many valleys that follow the Columbia River or the Snake River. In particular, focus on 3 areas in the southeast corner: Columbia Gorge, Yakima Valley (especially Rattlesnake Hills & Horse Heaven Hills), and Walla Walla Valley. According to the World Atlas of Wine (WAoW), Columbia Gorge is know for its Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, Rattlesnake Hills makes the most Bordeaux-like reds, and Walla Walla Valley is where the state’s most sought after reds are made (especially Cabernet Sauvignons & Syrah’s). Initially known for its “bulk” red wines, Washington state has really upped its game in the last decade. In fact, our absolute favorite red blend (Frederick), which is now harder to find, comes from Spring Valley Vineyard in Walla Walla Valley. It was a Wine Spectator (WS) top 100 in 2017.
In Oregon state, most of the wine is grown along or near the Willamette River. Some of the best Pinot Noirs to be had come from the Willamette Valley, which is why it is frequently referred to as the Burgundy of America. In particular (according to WS) , there are 3 areas, or sub AVAs, to focus on: Enola-Amity Hills, Dundee Hills, and Yamill-Carlton. Many of the Pinots you find from one of these AVAs will price in Reggie III’s range. Of the three, Dundee Hills is where it all started in the mid-1960’s and has the highest concentration of vineyards (according to WAoW). Right now the best Pinots are coming from Beaux Freres, Domaine Drouhin, A to Z Wineworks, and Resonance (according to WS). Any of these wines from 2016 to 2019 would be an excellent buy.
That’s is for Blog Post #8, next time it will be another Food & Wine one. Cheers!