One of the famed houses in Willamette Valley, I first visited WillaKenzie Estates back in 2005. This winery is unique in that it produces Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris with small amounts of Pinot Meunier, Gamay Noir and Chardonnay. Roughly a decade ago the tasting room had a major facelift which now boast a very expansive facility, with sweeping views across the Willamette Valley. For years I have enjoyed visiting this estate which was acquired a few years back by Jackson Family. Erik Kramer serves as winemaker, formerly applying his trade at Domaine Serene. His wines are focused with beautiful mid-palate ripeness and impressive quality across the board. I really enjoyed his 2018 WillaKenzie ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir (OB, 93) which is fresh and vibrant with gobs of mouth-watering acidity. This juicy effort has a long way to go in the cellar. Learn more about this great producer at willakenziestate.com and here are my reviews of the new Pinot Noirs by WillaKenzie Estate.
2018 WillaKenzie Estate ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- A brilliant new wine by Erik Kramer, this shows off a pretty core of tart red fruits alongside a great combination of viscosity and tension. The rich mouthfeel entices here. Finishing long with tilled soils and red fruits alongside copious minerals, this is a beautiful 2018 Pinot Noir that is built for the cellar. Drink 2021-2035- 93
2018 WillaKenzie Estate ‘Emery’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘Emery’ is sourced from a ridgeline site near the crest of the WillaKenzie Estate. Salty tones mark the nose alongside bright red currants, tobacco and suggestions of wild mushroom. The palate is dense and plush with brilliant finesse and a beautiful core of ripe red fruits. Slowly moving into secondary characteristics, this outstanding salty and savory Pinot Noir is only starting to hit its stride. Drink 2021-2035- 94