One of the standout producers in the Willamette Valley, the story of Ken Wright began as a waiter in Kentucky. Ken was waiting tables and became exposed to the great wines of the world. After spending eight years winemaking in California for Ventana Vineyards and Talbott Vineyards, Ken was finally convinced to move to the Willamette Valley in 1986. He then started Panther Creek cellars and then founded his namesake winery in 1994. In 2001 he added Tyrus Evan, a Syrah based winery, to his portfolio.
Ken’s new Pinot Noir releases were stunning across the board, as were his two new white wines. His 2012 Ken Wright ‘Cielo’ Chardonnay (WWB, 92) was gorgeous and deep, showing wondwedul layers and texture. Equally gorgeous was his 2013 Ken Wright ‘Tanager’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) which showed a delightful range of red fruit and earthy tones. Learn more about these fantastic wines at http://www.kenwrightcellars.com Here are the awesome new wines by Ken Wright.
2013 Ken Wright ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Blanc-This excellent wine begins with aromas of white peach,pink grapefruit and hints of gooseberry. There are bright flavors of unripe pear, Pazzaz apple and mulberry. Lithe and balanced, this has nice weight on the mid-palate. Drink 2016-2021- 91
2014 Ken Wright ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- This great entry level bottling of Pinot Noi begins with aromas of black cherry, boysenberry, teaberry and black tea. There are rich flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, pomegranate, forest floor and hints of eucalyptus. This shows impressive range and minerality. Drink 2016-2024- 91
2013 Ken Wright ‘Guadalupe’ Pinot Noir-This earthy wine begins with aromatics of forest floor, black truffle, and black cherry. This leads to lithe flavors of red cherry, pomegranate and cranberry with orange rind. Refreshing and light, this has delicious red fruit flavors with a lingering finish. Drink 2016-2026- 92
2013 Ken Wright ‘McCrone’ Pinot Noir-This wine begins with aromatics of orange rind, red cherry, red raspberry and fennel. There are flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, teaberry and hints of gooseberry and orange rind. Drink 2016-2024- 92
2013 Ken Wright ‘Savoya' Pinot Noir-This awesome Pinot Noir wine begins with aromatics of teaberry, red cherry, red raspberry and guava. There are bright flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, and hints of guava puree. Light and balanced, this Pinot Noir will be a long ager. Drink 2016-2027- 92
2013 Ken Wright ‘Tanager’ Pinot Noir- This wine opens with aromatics of cremini mushroom, red cherry, red raspberry and hints of forest floor. There are bright flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, sage and suggestions of cran-pomegranate. Drink 2016-2026- 92
2012 Ken Wright ‘Celilo' Chardonnay- This Chardonnay from the Columbia Gorge was sourced with 20% new French oak. The wine opens with aromatics of creme brulee, toasted oak, and buttered popcorn. There are flavors of poached pear, popcorn, brioche and vanilla cream. This could seriously pass for a great white Burgundy wine. Drink 2016-2024- 92