2021 Pinot Noir Taproot

The 'Taproot' bottling is a selection of our winemaker Matt's favorite barrels from our oldest planting of Pinot Noir. This block is comprised of about two-thirds Dijon 115 and one-third Wadenswil clone and was planted in 1997. This emphasis on older vines and one of our cooler site's warmer blocks gives the Taproot more depth and often riper fruit notes. This riper fruit element is especially true with the Dijon 115 clone, whereas the Wadenswil clone balances it out and gives the wine a rustic elegance with the focus on earth, spice, and a backdrop of red fruit. This duality works in unison rather than conflict and is, for us, reminiscent of classic Oregon Pinot Noir.

Cellar: a longer barrel program gives this wine a wonderful elegance that makes it equally enjoyable now or later, however it is our belief that will proper storage the wine will continue to improve for 8-10 years.

Pairings: Simpler dishes such as grilled salmon are made for Pinot Noir and that surely won't disappoint with the Taproot. However, venturing out a bit, this wine can pair nicely with the Burgundian dish Coq au vin with Oregon chanterelles as the earthy tones of the wine are an excellent match for any wild mushroom dish. One of our household favorite meals from the days when we used to raise lambs is grilled lamb chops with a garlic and rosemary rub and served with a greek salad or creamy risotto.