SHOP / 2022 Saffron Fields Pinot Noir
Varietal
100% Pinot Noir
Appellation
Willamette Valley AVA
Aging
Drink Now or Age 10+ Years
Vineyard
Saffron Fields
2022 Saffron Fields Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley AVA
The 2022 Saffron Fields Pinot Noir is refreshing and bright, leading with a mix of quintessential red fruit with hints of darker fruit throughout. The aromas are delicate, red currant and black cherry mingle with sweet pipe tobacco and a hint of citrus on the nose. The palate is polished and herbaceous, with flavors of tea leaf, tarragon, and rose petal, as well as cranberry and fresh mushroom flavors, which both add complexity. This seductive wine handled the challenging growing season in the Willamette Valley in stride. Enjoy now or cellar 10+ years to see how this beauty evolves.
93 Points
— Vinous
93 Points
The 2022 Saffron Fields Pinot Noir opens with an earthy blend of crushed black cherries, flowery underbrush and black olives. It's soothingly round, with balanced ripeness and a pliant feel. A wave of cooling acidity guide hints of cola and wild strawberries. The 2022 tapers off with tension, leaving a tinge of blood orange and licorice over a bed of sweet tannins.
August 2024
Additional Scores:
91
NW Wine Report
90
Robert Parker
Behind the Wine
2022 Saffron Fields Pinot Noir
The ambitious challenge in the cellar is to improve constantly through continuous experimentation with winemaking techniques, vineyard sources and wine styles. Our most contemporary enterprise, Pinot Noir, is frequently considered the grail of the winemaker’s world. Savagely difficult to cultivate in the vineyard and vinify in the cellar, the best efforts result in wines of purity, ethereal presence, and unparalleled sense of place.
Vineyards
The 89-acre property consists of diverse coarse-grained, ancient marine sediments native to the area, among the oldest soils in the Willamette Valley. The shallow topsoil layer, consisting of Willakenzie, Belpine, and Carlton soils, sits on a soft sandstone base, remnant of an ancient sea floor. The shallow topsoil layer and excellent drainage are essential to quality wine production. The vineyard is located between 250 and 450 feet above sea level with gentle south–southwestern exposure. These elements combine with the microclimate to produce evenly ripened grapes, expressing the strong personality of the vineyard.
Winemaking
Cold soaked 24 hours, fermented on skins 8-10 days. About 25% whole cluster fermentation. Barrel aged 14 months in barrel, 19% new French Oak.