In the heart of Oregon’s Chehalem Mountains, the 2022 growing season began with uncertainty for Lachini Vineyards. Over Easter weekend, a sudden and severe freeze swept through their estate, wiping out the primary buds on the vines. For a moment, the vintage hung in the balance. But nature, like great wine, can be surprisingly resilient.
Just weeks later, secondary and even tertiary buds emerged, a rare phenomenon that signaled recovery and perseverance, both in the vineyard and in the hands that tend it. Although yields were drastically reduced, with less than 1.25 tons per acre harvested, the resulting fruit was nothing short of extraordinary: small clusters, concentrated flavors, and vibrant, natural acidity.
Lachini Family Estate Pinot Noir from this vintage is more than a bottle, it’s a story. Crafted from a blend of Pommard, Dijon, Wadenswil, Swan, and a prized suitcase clone, this wine offers a layered expression of the Chehalem Mountains – dark cherry, wild herbs, spice, and black tea, supported by elegant structure and seamless balance.
Aged in 30% new French oak, fermented with native yeasts, and bottled unfined, this wine remains a pure and thoughtful expression of site and season. With its round texture, lifted aromatics, and a long, food-friendly finish, it’s easily one of the best wines for fall.
The 2022 release is a vivid reminder that challenge in the vineyard can yield beauty in the glass.
If You Like Lachini, You’ll Love These Wines from Chehalem Mountains & Beyond
Lachini’s estate Pinot Noir reflects the clarity and elegance of the Chehalem Mountains AVA, and for those drawn to this style there are several other wines worth exploring:
- Dundee Wine Library “The Publisher”: From La Dolce Vita Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains, this Pinot is aromatic, refined and expressive, with red fruit and subtle mineral character. It shares Lachini’s approach to expressing site, with careful winemaking that lets the vineyard speak.
- Boedecker Cellars “Distinction” Pinot Noir: Though sourced from nearby vineyards, this wine leans into savory detail, whole-cluster complexity and cool-climate finesse. A wine with depth, structure and a style that complements Lachini’s own.
- Red Electric Pinot Noir: Hailing from the adjacent Ribbon Ridge AVA, this label is known for vineyards, subtle blending and texture that speaks of place. The wines are energetic, balanced and layered — a compelling alternative for lovers of Oregon Pinot.
These wines, while distinct, share a philosophy centered on purity, place, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Tasting them alongside Lachini deepens the appreciation for Chehalem Mountain fruit and its surrounding terroir — and showcases the nuanced diversity across the Willamette Valley.
Spotlight: $25 and Under – Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Sale
To celebrate fall and the release of Lachini’s 2022, we’re launching a curated sale of Oregon Pinot Noirs at incredible value.
Here’s what to expect:
- 20+ Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs: Featuring AVAs like Chehalem Mountains, Dundee Hills, Eola‑Amity Hills and Ribbon Ridge – every wine $25 or under
- Bonus Savings: Buy 6 or more bottles and receive $1 OFF each
- Deep Discounts: Savings up to 69% OFF comparable retail, with bottles starting at $15.99
- Critic‑Backed Quality: Over half of these wines score 90 Pts. or higher from trusted reviewers
- Fall Pairing-Ready: Perfect with roast turkey, wild mushrooms, butternut squash, risottos and heartier fall fare
Mark your calendar, the sale opens October 15 at WTSO.com. Whether new to Oregon Pinot or deep into collecting, this is your chance to explore terroir, texture and value in one place!
