J. Christopher Pinot Noir "Basalte" 2018

Alcohol: 13.5%

Grape(s): Pinot Noir

Localization: Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Tasting Notes: The Basalte Pinot Noir is J. Christopher's bedrock bottling from the Willamette Valley. It is sourced from vineyards in two AVAs — Chehalem Mountains and Dundee Hills — that have fairly thin volcanic clay topsoil over fractured basalt. This type of very rocky soil lends itself to full-bodied, firmly structured wines. The Basalte captures this expressive character of the soil, with deep red fruit and a fine tannic structure that maintains an elegant style.

93 Points James Suckling: Aromas of red berries, violets, and nutmeg. Medium-bodied with bright, driving acidity. Strawberry and red cherry. The fresh fruit is carried by slightly tight tannins. Very energetic.

The Domain: Located in Oregon’s Northern Willamette Valley, J. Christopher Wines is a boutique winery that specializes in Pinot Noir made in the traditional style of Burgundy, and in Sauvignon Blanc modeled after the superlative wines of Sancerre. The winery is owned by world-renowned Ernst Loosen, of Weingut Dr. Loosen in Germany. Erni’s lifetime passion for the wines of Burgundy has led to a philosophy to produce elegant, nuanced wines in a distinctly Old World style with an emphasis on lower alcohol and a modest amount of oak. The wines have garnered an international reputation for their purity, balance and food-friendly drinkability.