Today we share one of of those great Pacific Northwest wineries that proudly supports wonderful causes. Ojo Brilloso or ‘shiny eye’ is named after those who manage the Argyle Vineyards. Each wine is selected by the vineyard manager from three of Oregon’s premier vineyards: The Knudsen, Lone Star and Spirit Hill Vineyards. Each wine utilizes different clonal selection of Pinot Noir.
These are the best wines from this program that I have tasted so far. Each wine are limited production wines from the warm 2021 vintage that are each seriously good and made by the talented Nate Klostermann. Proceeds from these wines go towards three remarkable charities working towards equality, opportunity, and diversity within the wine industry: AHIVOY, The Roots Fund, and ¡Salud!. Learn more at https://shop.argylewinery.com/product/2019-Ojo-Brilloso-Set and here are my reviews of the three 2021 ‘Oyo Brilloso’ wines.
2021 Argyle ‘Ojo Brilloso Spirt Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Coming from this 180 acre site in the Eola-Amity Hills, the outstanding 2021 Argyle ‘Ojo Brilloso Spirt Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows off red currants and red rose petals alongside freshly tilled salty soils. The smooth texture entices. Salty and savory, this is loaded with bright cranberry, blood orange zest and strawberry flavors alongside loamy soils on the palate. Drink 2023-2035- 94
2021 Argyle ‘Ojo Brilloso Knudsen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This outstanding Pinot Noir is sourced from this Dundee Hills site set at 650 feet. This offers lavender and ripe black raspberry notes on the nose alongside shades of stony soils. Bold and rich, with a lush texture, this is absolutely thrilling stuff to savor right now and over the next twelve plus years. Drink 2023-2035- 95
2021 Argyle ‘Ojo Brilloso Lone Star Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Another knockout of the ‘Ojo Brilloso’ collection, this incredible new wine comes from the Lone Star Vineyard which was planted by former winemaker Rollin Soles and utilizes clonal selection 677 Pinot Noir. This is herbal, nuanced and shows incredible concentration. Rich red and dark fruits parade with citrus zest, dried herbs and smoldering stone accents. Drink 2023-2035- 95