By Violet Vines
2023 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

The Wine
This wine is comprised of five different clones of Pinot Noir from three world-class vineyards across the northern Willamette Valley. The diversity of the clones and vineyard sites builds complexity, and the use of new French oak builds structure and flavor profile in this vibrant representation of Oregon's famed Willamette Valley.

The Vineyards
More than half of the Pinot Noir was harvested from Violet Vines Vineyard in McMinnville AVA. The remaining Pinot Noir was harvested from Roshni Vineyard in McMinnville AVA and Sherwood Hills Vineyard in Chehalem Mountains AVA. The small family-owned vineyards are meticulously farmed with vines hand-pruned and hand-harvested.

Vintage
The 2023 growing season was brilliant throughout and laid the foundation for an outstanding vintage. The year started slowly with a cool, wet spring, resulting in a slight delay in bud break. The remainder of the growing season was warm, steady, and dry with only one brief temperature spike. Despite predictions of a delayed harvest, the fruit ripened and arrived on time and immediately showed great promise.

Winemaker's Comments
The fruit was hand-sorted, fermented, and pressed, separating the clones and vineyards into their respective barrel until final blending. The Pinot Noir was vinified and aged for 12 months in French oak, with 21% being new.

Tasting Notes
Aromas and flavors of cranberry, raspberries, red currant, and rosy florals. Bright and vibrant mid-palate acidity awakens the palate and transitions to a "spot on" sour cherry finish.

Technical Data
Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir (Dijon clones 777, 115, 828, Pommard, Wadenswil)
Aging: 12 months in French oak (21% new)
pH: 3.52
Titratable Acidity: 5.5 g/L
Harvest Date: September 2023
Bottling Date: December 11, 2024
Release Date: February 2025
[Information provided by Matador Vino]

Wine: Violet Vines 2023 Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)
Score/Rating: 93
Review Date: 09/01/2025
Reviewed By: Michael Alberty
Tasting Notes: A fruit and citrus combination that reminded me of a blueberry scone sprinkled with orange zest was accompanied by a worn leather note. Sandy tannins that rub the roof of the mouth the right way surround flavors of boysenberries, bitter cacao nibs and an herbal one-two punch of sage and thyme. This medium-bodied wine is a very nice Pinot Noir value.

Wine: VIOLET VINES Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2023
Score/Rating: 92
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2030
Review Date: 07/2025
Reviewed By: Jeremy Young
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Violet Vines Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley spent 12 months in 21% new French oak. Aromas of red currant, pomegranate, and dried rose petals emerge with subtle earthy undertones. The palate is layered with flavors of wild cherry and blackberry, framed by refreshing acidity and well-integrated tannins that provide lift and structure. Medium-bodied and finely balanced, this Pinot Noir finishes with a nice spice note that sits on the back of the palate.

Wine: Violet Vines Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2023
Score/Rating: 92
Review Date: 03/12/2025
Reviewed By: Jim Gordon, Executive Editor
Tasting Notes: A vibrant, cherry and rhubarb-scented wine with a lively texture supporting tempting, juicy red- and black-fruit flavors. A full body, good acidity and medium tannins add depth with good balance. Drink now.