In June 2020, we tasted two Lenné Estate Vineyard barrel-selection Pinot Noirs, and right away, we knew we’d visit the vineyard once we started traveling again. One year later, during our road trip to Oregon wine country, we indeed stopped by. Subsequently, we tasted five different Pinot Noirs, and a Chardonnay as well. Above all, we met with co-owner and winemaker Steve Lutz, who explained why his wines are so unique. Read on to find out about the Lenné story and wines.
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Tag Archives: Willamette Valley
Youngberg Hill Visit
Our recent Youngberg Hill visit with winemaker/owner Wayne Bailey was both educational and fun, as we learned about his 31-year-old biodynamically farmed vineyard and his non-intervention winemaking process. Back in March, we tasted some of his wines and were so enamored, we just had to take a road trip to Oregon wine country. Just 10 minutes from downtown McMinnville, Youngberg Hill sits on a 50-acre hilltop with spectacular views. Read on to find out about their story, wines and beautiful inn. Continue reading
Utopia Wines
Our visit with Dan Warnshuis, founder and winemaker at Utopia Vineyard and Winery, highlighted our trip to Oregon last month. We could immediately see Dan’s passion for the vines, the fruit and winemaking. We could have listened to his stories all evening, as we tasted his outstanding Utopia wines that feature elegance and bright acidity. He opened seven bottles for us, ranging from 2013-2018. We find it very appealing that many of Dan’s older wines are considered new releases. And our time at Utopia was extra-special because we stayed at the vineyard’s beautiful, secluded log cabin, listed on airbnb. Read on for details.
Warm Weather Whites
Certainly, our enjoyment of warm weather whites increases every year. Until recently, our palates preferred Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio. But these days, we also appreciate the beautiful Sancerres and Picpoul from France, in addition to the refreshing, wallet-friendly Turbiana grape from Lugana, Italy. Most importantly, there are so many wonderful wines to explore this summer. For example, here are some that we have tasted from Washington state, Oregon, California, Italy, France, Armenia and New Zealand.