oregon tasting

Overview of Wine Tasting and Technical Aspects of Various Wines

  • The narrator discusses different wines, specifically Chardonnay, offering insights on their characteristics and complexities.

Chardonnay Wine Analysis

  • Chardonnay Composition

    • 40% new oak
    • 11% second-use oak
    • 6% third-use oak
    • Aged for nine months

  • Comparison of Pinot Varieties

    • Distinction between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris based on 'hang time'.
    • Pinot Gris yields a slightly more viscous profile.

Sensory Evaluation of the Wines

  • The importance of sensory evaluation is highlighted with participants discussing aromas and flavors.

  • Aroma and Flavor Notes

    • Descriptions of the aroma include:
      • Smells reminiscent of a tire inner tube and tennis balls.
      • Fruity notes of geranium apple and lemon.
      • Some participants note lime and lemon flavors.
      • Salivary response and warmth were part of the tasting experience, indicating complexity.

Geographic and Vineyard Considerations

  • Origin of Wines

    • The wines are sourced from Old Vines in McMinnville's Highland Vineyard known for its esteemed grape quality.

  • Oregon's Terroir

    • Old Vines mentioned without legal definitions of 'Old Vines'.
    • Vintage date specified as 2023; refers to a young Riesling which the speaker believes can improve with age.

  • Characteristics of Willamette Valley

    • Detailed environmental features:
    • Close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, influencing grape characteristics.
    • Old vines from various partner vineyards increase complexity.

Technical Aspects of Wine Production

  • Riesling Wine
    • Noted alcohol content: 12.25%
    • Description as a dry Riesling, though the exact term is debated.
    • Aging process includes no malolactic fermentation to maintain acidity, utilizing stainless steel aging at cool temperatures (55°F or less).

Comparative Tasting of Different Wines

  • Mingua Franca

    • Designated as volcanic due to its geologic characteristics, contributing mineral flavors and a savory quality.
    • Sources primarily within Willamette Valley without specific vineyard names mentioned.

  • Chardonnay B (Rex Hill)

    • Alcohol content: 13%
    • Composed of 46% new French oak, with flavors of chamomile, honey, oak spice, lemon curd, ginger, and mace.
    • Tasting notes suggest it serves as a good intermediary for diverse Chardonnay expressions.

  • Prince Hill Vineyards Chardonnay

    • Vintaged in 2022, with an alcohol content of 13.5%
    • Deviates from the complexity expected of a traditional old-world Chardonnay.

Reflection and Personal Opinions on Tasted Wines

  • Participants express varying preferences regarding flavors, restraint levels, and perceived quality.

    • Conversations revolve around whether the wines exhibit typical New World characteristics or if their production methods introduce uniqueness.

  • Participants are encouraged to convey personal preferences concerning wine styles, emphasizing subjectivity in wine tasting.

Conclusion of Wine Tasting Session

  • A recap of thoughts, questions, and discussions is encouraged at the end of the session, emphasizing the importance of individual interpretation and experience in wine tasting.