# Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (2021)

- **Producer:** Holloran Vineyard Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Oregon, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.2%
- **Average price:** €26
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, black cherry, strawberry, violet, orange peel

## About this wine

Holloran Vineyard Wines, established in 1999, is a producer focused on handcrafted wines from their own estate vineyards in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Their philosophy embraces Old World traditions, prioritizing purity of flavor and bright acidity. The 2021 vintage, known for its exceptional quality due to a warm and dry growing season, yielded concentrated Pinot Noirs with fine tannins and vibrant freshness. Holloran's vineyards are farmed using organic and biodynamic practices, featuring old vines. The wines are intentionally minimalist in their production, bottled unfined and unfiltered to retain their inherent character and express the unique terroir of the region.

## Interesting facts

- Holloran utilizes organic and biodynamic farming practices.
- Vineyards include old vines planted in the early 1970s.
- Wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve character.
- The 2021 vintage received 'five-star' ratings from critics.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and medium body cut through the richness of proteins like duck and pork, while its red fruit notes complement earthy flavors. Its fine tannins are gentle enough for fish but provide structure for richer meats.

## Wine making process

Holloran Vineyard Wines employs traditional Burgundian techniques for their Pinot Noir. Grapes are hand-picked and sorted, followed by 100% destemming. Fermentation occurs in small lots, primarily with cultivated yeasts. The wine is then aged for about 18 months in French oak barrels, with a low proportion of new oak. A key aspect of their process is bottling the wine unfined and unfiltered to preserve its natural character and integrity.