The Dundee Hills is breathtaking Oregon wine country in the heart of Pinot Noir heaven Willamette Valley. Nestled amidst the legendary names of this appellation such as Domaine Drouhin and Domaine Serene, the tiny, family-owned Winter’s Hill Winery is a best-kept secret for exceptional American Pinot Noir. As a domestic winery, it’s quite the accomplishment to earn the high praises of wine critic Allen Meadows, known better under the moniker of Burghound as the foremost expert on all things Burgundian. He tends to fall for wines that show purity and sense of place, which is exactly why you, Pinot-loving Operatives, should be all over this one given the 50% OFF deal!

A striking, bright crimson rim holds just enough light to shimmer as it deepens into a heart of ruby. Wild strawberries, forest floor, dried porcini mushrooms, and flowers adorn the attractive bouquet. Deeply satisfying, with dry yet ripe and tart red fruits, hints of exotic spices and candied orange peel. Finishes sappy and long with cranberries, blackberries, and licorice resonating through the impressive texture. We suggest that this Pinot Noir is best paired with dishes that are equally fruity and savory, with game, wild mushrooms and dried fruits.

This is a thinking person’s Pinot. While it holds enough hedonism with bright and upfront fruit to please California Pinot fans, it has the other foot well placed in France, where complexity is favored over loudness. There really are not many classy Oregon Pinots out there that are proponents of this bridging style, especially for what you can steal this at today.

Here’s what the wine press has to say.

92 Points - Burghound - “Outstanding! - Winter’s Hill Vineyard has been in the family since 1961 when Emily Gladhart’s parents purchased a fruit and grain farm in the Dundee Hills. The current owners Peter and Emily and their son Russell planted the first 19 acres of vines in 1990 to 12 acres of Pinot Noir and 7 acres of Pinot Gris which was followed by a second phase in 1997. The vineyard is certified LIVE, and Sustainable and Salmon Safe. Note that all of the wines are bottled with Diam brand composite corks. An elegant, pure and airy nose is composed of red Pinot fruit, floral and discreet spice wisps. Ripe, complex and layered aromas display notes of both red and dark currant, briar and a hint of anise. The succulent, round and velvet-textured medium weight flavors possess solid mid-palate density, as well as a sleek mouth-feel that carries over to the sappy and dusty finale. I like the complexity and this is really quite good plus it has the balance to age well. Drink 2021+.”