Pinot in the City – a sampling of Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs
“When Pinot producers get it right, the wines have it all: gorgeous aromatics, silky texture, bright acidity and supple tannins. What’s not to like?” – Natasha Hughes, MW
Twice a year the Willamette Valley Wineries Association (www.willamettewines.com) tours the United States to offer samples of outstanding wines from some of best winemakers in the Northwest.
Dallas and Austin, TX were fortunate to be included in the 2017 Pinot in the City tour featuring over 60 winemakers from the Willamette Valley area. As the name implies the Pinot Noir varietal was the featured attraction.
The beautiful Westin hotel hosted Pinot in Dallas on January 24th. 65 wineries provided samples of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and sparkling wines overlooking the City lights.
Former professional cyclist and restaurant worker, John Grochau stood out in a crowded field of exceptional winemakers. John stands out for his simple love of the terroir of Oregon and he represents this in winemaking techniques.
Grochau Cellars (www.grochaucellars.com) wines are the culmination of several years of enjoying the food and wine cultures of France as well as that of Portland.
Grochau’s 2015 Commuter Cuvée Pinot Noir is a strong offering suitable for everyday meals.
The Commuter Cuvée Pinot Noir is an annual first season release blend from multiple Willamette Valley vineyards. Grochau Cellar sources grapes from 15 organic and sustainably-farmed family vineyards across the valley. This wine has a light nose of cherry and lavender. Commuter Cuvée Pinot Noir is a bright, juicy and fruit-forward wine with a taste of cherry, cola and spices. Grochau believes in creating craft food-friendly wines that are a welcome accompaniment for everyday meals such as chicken, salmon and pizza.
PositiveVines Helpful Hint: Pinot Noir was first planted in the Willamette Valley in 1965. Wine Enthusiast magazine selected Willamette Valley as the Wine Region of the year in 2016.
Averaging $19 per bottle this is one of the more price friendly wines coming out of Willamette Valley. Grab a couple of bottles of Grochau’s Commuter Cuvée Pinot Noir and enjoy them this week.
Remember to drink what it is that makes you truly happy and always think positively!
Drink Responsibly!
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