Because I have lived in Washington State (most of my life), I will admit that most of my attention as far as particular focus months falls on what happens in my home state. I was alerted that May is Oregon Wine Month, and I am ashamed that I have not given it any attention on this blog, my P.I. blog or my Youtube channel…That is changing this month.
Oregon is THE spot for pinot noir in the United States. It may be THE spot for pinot noir anywhere outside of Burgundy in France, and may rival some of the better ones that come out of there. Is that a bold statement? Some (that is very few) would disagree, since in many competitions, Oregon pinot has beaten out the Burgundy’s in blind tastings. Because of its location, it is a natural spot for this finicky grape. Because of this fact, many Burgundian wine makers have pitched a tent in Oregon to practice their talents with the pinot noir grape.
Pinot Gris is the dominant white grape out of Oregon, and when it is produced in the style that reflects the original style of Oregon, it is one of my favorites (and I am not a huge fan of pinot grigio). Unfortunately (at least in my opinion), they have allowed the pinot grigio style to sneak in, and it is harder to find a distinct Oregon Pinot Gris. That being said, there are still a lot of stellar examples out there and when you hit one, you know.
Chardonnay is quickly taking a foothold in Oregon. I know that many would say that it has been in that state for a long time. However, I think that the fruit quality is getting better and the style is starting to shift towards the American palate. Not butter balls by any stretch, but certainly a little softer and more approachable, getting away from the austere style that has been so prominent from this state. When I say a little softer, that is exactly what I mean. There is still acidity and structure, it is just more approachable.
Wineries in Oregon also do some pretty amazing Riesling, with nice acidity, minerality and that touch of petrol that so many wine geeks look for in Riesling. I look forward to reviewing wines from Oregon on this blog, and my Youtube channel, Stan The Wine Man TV. Stay tuned as I celebrate Oregon Wine Month with our brothers (and sisters) south of the border (Washington that is).
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
,
