Winter's Hill Willamette Valley Pinot noir 09

Review:

Bright and fun, this has scads of cherry fruit that starts in the nose and carries through the flavors and finish. Subtle blueberry, citrus, and a kiss of toastiness add depth and makes for rocking-good value.

Located in the "Beverly Hills" of Oregon Pinot (right down the road from Domaine Serene), this small, family winery is guided by the charming french winemaker Delphine Gladhart. - Marcus

Winter's Hill wines are made by Delphine Gladhart. Russell is her husband. Delphine is a native of Lyon, France. Shea earned two degrees in France, one in Biology and Biotechnology Analysis, and the second in Enology and Viticulture from the institute Supérieur Agricole in Beaune, Burgundy. She worked as a cellar hand and winemaker's assistant for four seasons in different wineries in France, one season in New Zealand, and three seasons in Oregon before joining Winter's Hill as its winemaker.

Winter's Hill has 21 acres of Pinot Noir planted at 1089 vines to the acre. The 12 acres planted with own rooted vines in 1990 are trained to a Scott Henry divided canopy. Nine acres were planted between 1997 and 2000 on phylloxera resistant rootstocks, 44-53,5C, 3309 and riparia, which are less vigorous and so are trained to a double cane trellising system.

The vineyard is all on Jory soil, the most sought after soil type for the growing of premium grapes. Jory is a silty clay loam desirable for balancing good water retention properties and excellent drainage. Pommard Dijon 114 and 115, and Wadensvil are the clones which are planted. The combination of clones serves to enrich the flavor profile of the wine.