2018 Montinore Estate Reserve Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Picture this: a former attorney trades briefcases for barrels and discovers his Montana in the heart of Oregon. That’s how Montinore Estate began its journey to becoming one of the Willamette Valley’s crown jewels, crafting wines that are as rich in history as they are in flavour.

Montinore Estate, perched on the east-facing slopes of the Coastal Range foothills, isn’t just another vineyard—oh no, it’s a 200-acre Biodynamic and organic-certified paradise. What does that mean for you? Pure, unadulterated Pinot Noir that tastes like it’s been kissed by nature herself. Every sip of this Reserve Pinot tells the story of soil, sustainability, and stewardship, with a pinch of volcanic drama thrown in for good measure.

Yes, volcanic drama. Back in 1980, when Mount St. Helens erupted, it sprinkled Montinore’s fields with ash, forever changing the landscape—and, as it turns out, setting the stage for some of the finest Pinot Noir in the region.

Fast forward to the present, and Montinore Estate has become a poster child for Biodynamic farming, thanks to visionary owner Rudy Marchesi. Biodynamic farming isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about cultivating a farm as a living, breathing organism. It’s like yoga for the vineyard, except instead of downward dogs, you get Pinot that balances fruitiness with finesse and whispers sweet nothings of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of earthy spice into your glass.

But let’s talk about this 2018 Reserve Pinot Noir. Crafted from hand-selected grapes, it’s like the estate’s love letter to Pinot Noir lovers. It’s got layers—like your favorite sweater-weather outfit—but instead of cashmere, think velvety tannins, lush red berries, and the kind of structure that’ll make you sit up and say, “Wait, this is really good.”

A little bit of Oregon’s wilderness, a touch of Old World elegance, and a whole lot of “pour me another glass, please.” Whether you’re pairing it with a fancy duck confit or just sipping while binge-watching your favourite show, this Pinot is here to elevate the moment.

Aging: 10 months in French oak barrels (41% new)

100% Pinot Noir. The Reserve Pinot is a thoughtfully curated barrel selection from the best blocks the estate offers. Wafts of black cherry, plum and fig jam are laced with a hint of fragrant violet and subtle cedar notes. Cherry continues on the palate, mingling with loganberry and pomegranate. Balanced acidity lends to a clean finish.

Super spicy cherries with spiced-biscuit complexity. The palate has a very smooth-honed core of bright, vibrant dark berries and cherries with silky tannin texture. Drink or hold. ~92 James Suckling

Snappy and plump, with cherry, herb and spice flavors. Offers medium-grained tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2028. 2,100 cases made. ~90 Wine Spectator

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