Oregon Wines: The Hot List

It's Friday and that's reason enough to raise a glass. But, why not celebrate wines from the stunning state of Oregon while we're at it?

May is Oregon Wine Month and we're here for it. Nestled between the rugged Cascade Mountains and vast coastline, Oregon's diverse terrain nurtures a rich tapestry of vineyards, from Willamette Valley to the sun-kissed slopes of Southern Oregon. This week, we've got 5 wines for you to taste that celebrate the distinct character of this west coast gem.

From urban wineries in Portland to the beloved Willamette Valley, Oregon is home to 1,467 wineries -- second-most in the country, after California. With 22 distinct AVAs, Pinot Noir and Pinto Gris are the Oregon grapes we know and love, but there's so much more to explore. This week, we've got recommendations for Oregon wines to try from small production, family and women-owned vineyards that you might not see in your local wine shop. Embark on an Oregon tasting adventure without leaving your home (though a trip to Oregon is also highly recommended! Keep an eye out for our Willamette Valley hot list next week 🍇🏔️)

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• 2020 House Call Red Blend, Iris Vineyards

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's southern Willamette Valley, Iris Vineyards is renowned for crafting world-class, award-winning wines and their wine bar is the first in Springfield, OR. (add to your must-visit list!)

Tasting Notes: well-structured, complex blend that opens with aromas of rosehips, tamarind, and quince. In the glass, the wine expresses a bouquet of flavors including pomegranate, blackberry jam on toasted brioche and, a savory, mouth watering finish. One of the top winners of the Belle & Bottle Wine Awards - great quality wine for the price. $22.99

• Troon Vineyard 2022 Vermentino - Oregon’s Only Demeter Biodynamic & Regenerative Organic Certified Vineyard and Farm

Located in Oregon’s picturesque Applegate Valley, Troon Vineyard proudly holds both Demeter Biodynamic® Certification and Regenerative Organic Gold Certification™️. As one of only four farms globally to achieve this prestigious Gold Certification, Troon is dedicated to crafting wines that bring joy through natural, sustainable practices.

+ 93 Points "Hidden Gem Selection" from Wine Enthusiast. + 92 Points Catherine Fallis Master Sommelier - 90 Points Vinography "The Troon Vineyards Vermentino has the great citrusy brightness and wonderful aromatics that have caused more than one winemaker to tell me they think it’s a contender for the next big thing in white wine. There’s not much of it planted in California or Oregon, but when it can taste like this, I tend to agree there should be more of it."

• Babycheeks Rosé, Day Wines

From Day Wines owner and winemaker Brianne Day, a rosé that is always a hit and one that we’ve featured multiple times in our wine club offerings.

Tasting notes: Looking for a balance of acidity, fruit, and a hint of tannic grip, Babycheeks is a blend of thicker-skinned, warm-climate varietals: Malbec, Tannat, and Cabernet Franc. This blend from the Applegate is generous with fruit; juicy strawberry, pink apple, Meyer lemon, tart stone fruit, yellow cherry. It also shows savory and mineral notes of raw almond, wet stone, and flowers. Perfect for sunshine sipping.

• Big Table Farm Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

In 2006, Brian Marcy and Clare Carver relocated from Napa to Oregon, where Brian had spent a decade working in the wine industry. Fueled by a shared dream, they produced their first 150 cases of wine that same year. Since then, they’ve established a critically-acclaimed winery and each bottle features a hand-drawn label, courtesy of Clare.

Tasting Notes: This wine unfolds its tale with an aromatic prelude of dried roses, coriander and muddled raspberry. Venture deeper into the glass and the story darkens, revealing a core of a forest at dusk. Candied bacon, anise and strawberry guava parade across the palate with a savory sweetness. A narrative of flavors, each sip is a chapter in its own right, a story that promises to linger after the curtain falls, leaving you yearning for just one more taste of its enchanting story.

• Eyrie Vineyard Pinot Blanc

Sits nicely between a pinot gris/grigio lover and a chardonnay fan. Great sipping and food pairing wine. $36

Tasting Notes: This delicious dry rendition lightly carries the texture of extended lees contact while remaining crisp, fruity, and complex on the palate. Pairs well with oysters and raw foods. Certified organic.

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