Cristom Mt Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir 2024

Cristom Mt Jefferson Cuvée is a barrel aged Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley in Oregon, made by Cristom, a project run by winemaker Steve Doerner, engineer Paul Gerrie and grower Marcos Feltz. All three are committed to sustainable viticulture and low intervention winemaking and hold LIVE certification. The Willamette Valley is a cool, marine influenced region where a long, gentle growing season lets Pinot Noir ripen slowly, building bright fruit and aromatic detail while holding fresh acidity. The valley's volcanic and sedimentary soils give the wine an earthy, savoury depth that sits under the fruit. Cristom specialises in Pinot Noir and works with minimal intervention in the cellar. The wine ages in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the naturally light Pinot tannins and adds a frame of spice and subtle toast without covering the fruit. The colour is a translucent ruby. The nose shows cherry, red berries and plum over earth and a touch of clove. The palate is medium bodied and supple, with juicy red fruit, fine tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, earthy finish. Serve slightly cool at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits roast duck, chicken and mushroom dishes.