Summer Sippers from Van Duzer Vineyards

Surprisingly, there are many wine lovers who have not been introduced to wines from Oregon. I’m a huge fan of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and other varietals grown in that beautiful state and love to share wine reviews and information about its wine regions.   Just last week I profiled Florent Merlier, winemaker at Van Duzer Vineyards in the Willamette Valley, where cool winds from the Pacific Ocean breeze through the Van Duzer Corridor to the center of the valley.  Merlier has received plenty of accolades for the cool climate wines that reflect his unique style of winemaking.  I was fortunate to receive from him samples that included two whites and a rosé that are just delicious for summer sipping.  Perhaps you will find them as porch friendly as I did!

2014 Estate Pinot Gris – The Pinot Gris grape is the same as Pinot Grigio; it’s the region and the style of winemaking that reflect the differences.  Van Duzer Estate Pinot Gris is fermented in four batches using three different yeasts.  One is to build upon the aromas of bright tropical fruit, another is to offer a “rich mouth feel”, and the last is to maintain its flinty character.  The grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks and released after six months.  In my glass, I found aromas of zesty minerality, stone fruits, and a touch of floral.  On the palate were intense yet light notes of the same as well as crisp green apple and bright acidity.  I enjoyed this lovely, chilled Pinot Gris with spinach and artichoke crepes and a fresh, green salad, but you could pour a glass or two and pair with a good book while soaking up the warm sun.  Cost is $18.

2013 Riesling–  Hand harvested grapes from two different vineyards in the Dundee Hills AVA in the Willamette Valley were pressed then inoculated with three different yeasts to “increase and highlight the floral, aromatics, and mouthfeel characteristics”.  Fermentation in stainless steel tanks and three months of ageing on the lees resulted in a fresh palate profile with a creaminess I love. On the nose I found intense floral notes, nuts, and tropical fruit; flavors of citrus and lemon with a dash of minerality followed.  Balanced with depth that was notable, the lively finish was incredibly satisfying.  Cost is $20.

2014 Pinot Noir Rosé –  One of my favorite rosés from Oregon, the Pinot Noir grapes in the Van Duzer 2014 were gently pressed after a short skin contact and fermented with four different yeasts.  After cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the juice aged on the lees.  Mesmerizing aromas of flowers, red fruits and melon wafted from glass.  My palate was in wine heaven with the fresh, rich flavors of red berries including cherries, raspberries, and strawberries.  With a snap of acidity in this dry Rosé, I found a touch of spice on the lingering finish.  If you’ve never tasted a Rosé of Pinot Noir, this should be the one! Cost is $18.

Cheers! ~ Cindy