Typically, winemakers recommend drinking Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs upon release and, if one chooses, aging them for five to eight years. When it comes to cooler vintages, some recommend maturing them for up to a decade or so to let them develop into a more complex wine. And it’s a gamble!
2012 was a year that truly tested the expertise of the winemakers in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Despite the late spring, cool summer, and early fall rains that barely allowed Pinot Noir to ripen, these skilled artisans could craft wines that stood out, turning a challenging vintage into an opportunity to showcase their talent.
With the 2012 Archery Summit Pinot Noirs, we decided to gamble with their two top wines. Archer’s Edge and Renegade Ridge are both single-vineyard wines from Dundee Hills AVA, which is considered the top appellation in Willamette Valley. In Burgundian terms, it’s the likes of Grand Cru.
Did our gamble pay off?
More than we expected!
Surprisingly, both wines from 2012 were not just a testament to the winemakers’ skill, but also a unique experience for the palate. They were lively and fresh, filled with red fruit complimented by earthy, mushroom, and forest floor notes, and finished with a raspberry and a hint of coffee. The bright acidity and surprisingly sensible tannin were a rare find in Willamette Valley Pinots, making these wines a must-try for any wine enthusiast.
As expected, matured wines, especially from the same appellation, came across more alike and had only nuanced differences. This is even more so for Dundee Hills and Willamette Valley as a whole because most producers use a limited number of clones matching soil types and lab rather than ambient yeast. Together, these factors bring uniformity rather than differences to the resulting wine.
Still, thoughtful winemakers strive to create their own style, and Archery Summit is one the best examples of a more concentrated and fuller-bodied style.
We’re always eager to hear about your wine experiences. What are the oldest Pinot Noirs you’ve tried? What are your thoughts on older Pinots? Share your stories and insights in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going.
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