(Originally published June 2006)

Willamette Valley Vineyards is located, not surprisingly, in Oregon’s Willamette Valley – one of the premiere wine growing regions in the country. Prized for its Burgundy-ish climate and soil, the cool weather, long growing season and rolling hill vineyards produce some of the best Pinot Noir on this side of the Atlantic.

Native Oregonians Jim and Cathy Bernau purchased their initial tract of land in 1983, planting Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. Over the years, they expanded their land holdings to fifty acres, eventually building a winery on the estate. In 1997, the Bernaus purchased Tualatin Estate, an old and respected vineyard near Forest Grove, west of Portland.

Both the Estate and Tualatin vineyards are certified Salmon Safe and LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology). Willamette Valley Vineyards also has a biofuel program – they use it in their tractors and delivery vehicles, and offer up to 50 gallons per month to their employees who drive compatible vehicles (and many do!).

Willamette Valley Vineyards wines are fairly widely available – and well worth seeking out! We recently tasted a few of their current releases. Here are our notes:

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2005 Pinot Gris Oregon ($17). Aromatic, flowery white peach and honeydew flavors are laced with mineral and spices. Nice acidity adds a juicy character, while the wine feels smooth and balanced. Ready to drink now.

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2003 Pinot Noir Oregon ($20). Easy to fall for, with its smooth, concentrated red cherry fruit accented with an array of baking spices, toast, milk chocolate, and sweet tobacco flavors. Focused finish leaves you wanting more. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years.

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2004 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Estate Vineyard ($40). Pretty red cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors are nuanced with tea, white pepper, light cream and sweet earth. Loved the racy acidity. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years.

Learn more about the winery and its wines at www.willamettevalleyvineyards.com.