When I was first getting into Pacific Northwest wine I was immediately drawn to Oregon bubbles master, Rollin Soles, who was making some of the most electric wines you would find on the west coast. Argyle continues to make some of the most consistently great Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and sparkling wines, and has been led for many years by director of winemaking Nate Klostermann. Nate is so talented and does an amazing job with the sparkling wine program.
I was totally blown away with the new 2013 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 96) which spent 10 years on the lees and is absolutely brimming with bright acidity and texture. 2013 was a tough vintage for red wines but the sparkling wines from this vintage continue to shine brightly. Learn more about these outstanding wines at argylewinery.com and here are my tasting notes from a sensational tasting of Argyle Sparkling Wines.
2013 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- The 2013 ‘Extended Tirage’ was disgorged in July 2023. Given 3 G/L dosage, The wine was picked before the rains of the 2013 vintage. On the nose this shows baking spice dusted pastry crust, Pink Lady apple, and juicy peach notes with shades of diatomaceous earth. The mousse is super refined and elegant, as this glides throughout the drinking experience. 60% Pinot Noir with the remainder Chardonnay. This is ethereal stuff that is only starting to hit its stride. Drink 2024-2038- 96
2022 Argyle ‘Spirithouse’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Spirithouse’ Chardonnay was stored in mainly neutral oak barrels prior to bottling. This shows plenty of tension and richness with layers of Japanese pear, vanilla cream, toasted hazelnuts and brioche notes. Layered and complex, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2024-2034- 94
2022 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ Pinot Noir- A sensational wine from this slightly cooler vintage, the 2022 ‘Nuthouse’ Pinot Noir was sourced from the Eola -Amity Hills AVA. Dusty soils and copious minerals combine with suggestions of tobacco leaf, and dense red fruits combine on the palate. Fresh and vibrant, with great depth, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2024-2039- 95