For a long time, the adage ‘Pinot Noir equals Burgundy’ was an unchallenged truth in the wine world. Pinot Noir from regions outside Burgundy was often in the shadows, at best viewed as a budget-friendly understudy. This perspective, however, was set to ]change dramatically.
Until the early 2000s, Pinot Noir from regions other than Burgundy was often overlooked, at best considered a budget-friendly alternative, including American Pinot Noir. However, the notion that only Burgundy’s terroir could authenticate Pinot Noir and truly express its flavor became antiquated. While this shift was propelled by advancements in countries like New Zealand, Australia, Chile, and Germany, the United States played a significant role, particularly California.
In 1976, the “Judgment of Paris” demonstrated that the New World could rival France in Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, paving the way for Pinot Noir’s international potential. Starting with Oregon and expanding across various regions in California, the US began producing world-class Pinot Noir. This contribution helped elevate Pinot Noir to a true international variety.
The United States, with its significant contribution to breaking the formula “Pinot Noir equals Burgundy,” has now become a second home for Pinot Noir. From Oregon’s Willamette Valley, which has showcased American Pinot Noir on the world stage, to the diverse terroirs of California’s North Coast, Sonoma Coast, and Central Coast, the US is ushering in a golden age for American Pinot Noir.
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1. Oregon, Willamette Valley: A New Frontier for American Pinot Noir
Formally established as the birthplace of Pinot Noir in Oregon, Eyrie Vineyards pioneered this endeavor. In 1965, David Lett and his wife planted Pinot Noir on Dundee Hill in Willamette Valley, confident that Oregon’s terroir would suit Pinot Noir exceptionally well. Their foresight has since been proven accurate, with Willamette Valley now recognized as a leading region for American Pinot Noir. Starting with Eyrie Vineyards, followed by pioneers like Ponzi, Sokol Blosser, and Adelsheim, the first generation of Pinot Noir producers began cultivating vineyards in Willamette Valley.
A pivotal moment occurred when Eyrie Vineyards’ 1975 vintage Pinot Noir won the Pinot Noir category at the 1979 Gault-Millau Wine Olympiad in Paris. This victory showcased the potential of Oregon’s Pinot Noir, surpassing even the judgment of Paris and prompting the esteemed Drouhin family from Burgundy to establish a presence in Oregon during the 1980s.
Today, renowned Burgundian figures like Dominique Lafon and Jean-Nicolas Méo acknowledge and collaborate with Oregon’s terroir. In 2013, Maison Louis Jadot further cemented Oregon’s status by acquiring Resonance Vineyard in Willamette Valley.
Willamette Valley is now evolving towards emphasizing terroir, much like Burgundy. Spanning a length of just 240km north to south, it boasts a diverse range of soils, topographies, and microclimates, resulting in distinct expressions of Pinot Noir across different regions. Since 2002, ten AVAs have been approved within Willamette Valley, each showcasing unique characteristics in their Pinot Noir productions, making it essential knowledge for wine enthusiasts.
Another important fact to note: Every late July, Oregon plays host to the International Pinot Noir Celebration (IPNC). This festival, teeming with passion for Pinot Noir, attracts over 70 wineries annually, along with hundreds of Pinot Noir winemakers from around the globe.
Over three days, attendees can indulge in a wide array of Pinot Noir wines paired with local cuisine, making it a haven for Pinot Noir enthusiasts. You might want to consider an Oregon getaway for your summer vacation, enjoying a glass of Oregon Pinot Noir on its home turf, reconfirming this place as its revered second home after Burgundy.
Archery Summit, Arcus Estate Pinot Noir
This wine unveils a vibrant bouquet reminiscent of roses, ripe raspberries, and cherries. On the palate, intense fruit flavors intertwine with notes of dark chocolate and elegant nuances of black tea, complemented by lively acidity and silky tannins, resulting in a lingering finish. Aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, Arcus Estate Pinot Noir is a premium expression of Pinot Noir. True to its name, Arcus, which means “bow” in Latin, represents the steep, bow-shaped vineyard, where variations in sunlight exposure and microclimates yield grapes with distinctive characteristics.
Maison Noir, Vine & Supply
Exotic spices and oak nuances reminiscent of cedarwood accompany cherry and red berry flavors. On the palate, vibrant acidity pairs harmoniously with flavors of plum and cherry, supported by light tannins. This wine, fermented without added yeast, is aged for 12 months in oak and an additional 12 months in bottle without filtration. Maison Noir epitomizes a boutique winery striving to capture Oregon’s terroir, as reflected in their unique label designs.
2. Northern California, Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
When we think of California, images of palm-lined beaches and sun-soaked surfers playing beach volleyball often come to mind. However, California, spanning an area over four times the size of South Korea, boasts diverse climates across its regions. Similar to the varying climates between Seoul and Busan, California’s diverse landscapes are influenced by factors such as the cold California Current flowing southward from the Pacific Ocean and the numerous mountain ranges stretching north to south.
Anderson Valley AVA, located in the northwestern part of California, is a prime example. The chilly coastal air spills over the low hills, creating thick fog along the Navarro River. Many wineries have established themselves along the river, including Duckhorn from Napa Valley, producing exceptional Pinot Noir. Other renowned producers such as Kosta Browne and Littorai also craft premium Pinot Noir in this region.
Duckhorn, Goldeneye Pinot Noir
Aromas of fragrant violets intertwine with clear fruit notes of cherries, accompanied by hints of earthiness and cedarwood. Upon tasting, flavors of strawberries, plums, and blackberries envelop the palate, leaving a subtle lingering finish of mushrooms and spices. Reflecting the delicate and captivating beauty of the cool Anderson Valley, Goldeneye Pinot Noir by Duckhorn, a renowned Napa Valley establishment, epitomizes premium wine crafted from optimal Pinot Noir terroir in Anderson Valley.
Fel, Pinot Noir
Redolent scents of red flowers mingle with tart red fruit aromas of cherries, pomegranates, and plums, underscored by subtle fig nuances. On the palate, a continuation of red berry and raspberry flavors is complemented by fragrant hints of mint and spices. Resonating with the image of a small bright flower depicted on the label, this Pinot Noir from Fel undergoes 16 months of aging in French oak, adding to its elegance. Founded in 2009 by Cliff Lede, a respected name in Napa Valley, Fel derives its name from the initials of the founder’s mother, Florence Elsie Lede.
3. California, Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
The California Current transports cold waters southward, influencing the western coast of California with a cool climate, while also drawing cold, deep-sea currents upward. These cool air masses, influenced by the California Current, infiltrate inland through both rivers and valleys.
In the northwestern region of Sonoma Coast AVA, near the low and expansive Russian River Valley AVA, dense fog blankets the landscape in the afternoons due to the influence of cold air flowing in from the Pacific Ocean. This fog significantly impacts grape cultivation, particularly in the low-lying valleys, where exceptional Pinot Noir is produced. Additionally, regions closer to the northern coast, such as Fort-Ross Seaview AVA, also produce high-quality Pinot Noir due to the direct influence of the cool coastal climate.
Carneros AVA, located at the southern end of Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley, has long been revered as a Pinot Noir region. While exhibiting a slightly milder climate than the coastal areas of Sonoma, it benefits from the influence of cold winds blowing in from San Pablo Bay, resulting in ripe fruit flavors, crisp acidity, and firm structure in its Pinot Noir wines.
Gary Farrell, Russian River Selection Pinot Noir
Fresh cherry and raspberry aromas are enhanced with notes of fresh green tea and white pepper. On the palate, red berry flavors dominate, accompanied by nuances of walnuts, mushrooms, and hints of minerals, resulting in a complex finish. This wine boasts exceptional silky tannins, lively acidity, and a well-balanced alcohol level. Crafted from grapes carefully harvested on cool mornings, it undergoes meticulous selection and aging for 10 months in French oak, followed by an additional 12 months in the bottle before release. Gary Farrell Winery, established in 1985, prides itself on producing limited quantities of wine that reflect the characteristics of the vineyard.
Raen, Freestone Occidental Pinot Noir Bodega Vineyard
Intense flavors of ripe strawberries and raspberries are accompanied by subtle herbal notes, luminous minerals, and smoky meat nuances, creating a complex palate. This wine features light tannins, fresh acidity, and alcohol that enhances its robust structure, promising even more allure with years of aging. Grapes are meticulously selected and fermented with native yeast, without the addition of commercial yeast, and aged for an extended period without fining or filtration before bottling. Raen Winery, founded by Robert Mondavi’s grandsons, Dante and Carlo Mondavi, aims to produce world-class Pinot Noir in the Sonoma Coast.
DeLoach, Heritage Reserve Pinot Noir
Starting with aromas of fresh strawberries, this wine offers a variety of spice flavors. On the palate, ripe fruit flavors reminiscent of sugar-dipped strawberries are complemented by a clean finish with a hint of tart cranberries. While considered an entry-level Pinot Noir, it exhibits a solid foundation of flavors. DeLoach Winery, a pioneering establishment in the Russian River Valley AVA, has been applying biodynamic farming practices since being acquired by the renowned Burgundian Boisset family in 2003, aiming to reflect the essence of the vineyard.
4. South of San Francisco Bay, Monterey Pinot Noir
Near the renowned Silicon Valley lies Monterey Bay, stretching approximately 40-50 km southward from San Francisco Bay. Alongside the southeastern edge of Monterey Bay lies the Salinas Valley, extending over 160 km and comprising a vast wine-growing region known as Monterey AVA. The Salinas Valley, shaped like a funnel, channels the cool air from the western coast, leading to occasional temperature drops due to chilly winds, especially during early spring when frost might be a concern.
However, in the fall, grapes ripen slowly, ensuring both freshness and physiological ripeness. While predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon was planted in this area during the 1960s, recent years have seen a renaissance of Pinot Noir production. Renowned producers have established themselves in Monterey, producing high-quality yet affordable Pinot Noir.
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, situated midway in Monterey AVA’s southwest, produces a significant amount of premium Pinot Noir. Similarly, Arroyo Seco AVA shares the same attributes, but it might be challenging to find Pinot Noir from this region in Korea. On the other hand, Mount Harlan AVA in the north gained early recognition for its excellent Pinot Noir, thanks to Calera’s outstanding wines.
La Crema, Monterey Pinot Noir
Sweet spice notes of cloves, cinnamon candy, and fresh herbal nuances intertwine with flavors of ripe red berries. On the palate, rich flavors of red berries like plums, cherries, and red plums abound. This Pinot Noir offers a dry sensation with tight tannins and mouthwatering acidity, making it perfect to pair with food. Aged for 8-9 months in French oak barrels (19% new), La Crema, founded in 1979, has always aimed to produce delicate Pinot Noir in the Burgundian style and became part of the Jackson Family Wines in 1993.
Calera, Central Coast Pinot Noir
Aromas of fragrant flowers such as pink roses and violets blend with fruity flavors of currants and black cherries, accompanied by sweet spice and licorice nuances. On the palate, a silky texture carries dense flavors of red berries, extending all the way to the finish. This typical example of American Pinot Noir boasts a firm structure. Blended from various vineyards across Central Coast, including Monterey and Santa Barbara, Calera Winery, founded by Josh Jensen in 1975, is renowned as a leading producer of American Pinot Noir.
Delicato, 1924 Port Barrel Aged Pinot Noir
Mature blackberry flavors are complemented by cocoa and toasty nuances. Smooth texture carries dense flavors of black fruits seamlessly. Originating from California, this Pinot Noir aged in port barrels offers complex flavors and a luxurious texture. The 1924 Range, a popular series of distilled/spirit-enriched barrel-aged wines in the United States, introduced the Port Barrel Aged Pinot Noir in 2021. Founded in 1924, Delicato has grown into a top-three California wine exporter.
5. Central South California
If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ve probably seen the wine movie “Sideways” at least once. The protagonist, Miles, is a wine lover, and his favorite grape variety is Pinot Noir. As a celebration of marriage with his friend, they set off on a trip to Santa Barbara. It’s no wonder Miles is a Pinot Noir lover since Santa Barbara is one of the best Pinot Noir-producing regions. Situated about 100 km north of LA, Santa Barbara gives off a surprisingly mild vibe. However, that’s merely a feeling, as Santa Barbara’s average summer temperature is much lower than California’s average. Moreover, the rainfall during the grape growing season is minimal, making it ideal for Pinot Noir cultivation.
Especially within Santa Barbara County, there are many outstanding Pinot Noir-producing areas under the “Santa” prefix AVA. Santa Maria Valley AVA, in particular, is home to the prestigious Bien Nacido vineyard, recognized as a Grand Cru-level Pinot Noir vineyard. Further south, Sta. Rita Hills AVA, located west of Santa Ynez AVA in Santa Ynez, also produces high-quality Pinot Noir based on its limestone-based soil. These regions, akin to Santa Claus gifting wine enthusiasts with the finest Pinot Noir, hold memorable value worth remembering.
Solomon Hills, Estate Pinot Noir
Fresh peppery notes mingle with invigorating scents, enhancing the flavors of red berries. On the palate, a light body carries delicate flavors of red berries, blueberries, and subtle earthy notes. Charming Pinot Noir with refined tannins and a refreshing acidity achieves a perfect balance. Crafted from hand-harvested grapes and aged for 18 months in French oak (33% new) without filtration. Located on the western edge of Santa Maria Valley, Solomon Hills Vineyard is heavily influenced by the Pacific Ocean’s currents, featuring mostly sandy loam soils, making it an optimal site for Pinot Noir cultivation.
The Hilt, Vanguard Pinot Noir
Refreshing mint, dry sage, and sweet licorice hints lightly accompany flavors of blackberries and plums. Upon tasting, a silky texture and refreshing acidity ease tension, revealing vibrant fruit flavors with subtle animalistic hints. A wine that offers the sensual and fruity charm of New World Pinot Noir abundantly. The Hilt, founded by Stan Kroenke, owner of Screaming Eagle and Jonata, aims to produce top-notch Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the Santa Rita Hills.