Kevin's Weblog

Yesterday we went wine tasting in the Willamette Valley with a couple of friends. I’ve been wanting to get more familiar with the local wineries and with so many so close, it’s surprising we haven’t been out tasting yet. We had a bit of a late start, but we managed to hit 3 wineries.

First up was Adelsheim Vineyard. We got a little lost on the way (the GPS was being cowardly and refused to give directions on the last couple roads), but once we got there the location was definitely worth it. They have a really nice patio overlooking the hills where we picnicked. I was fond of the Pinot Noir Rosé and the Goldschmidt Vineyard Single Estate Pinot Noir. S. liked the Deglacé dessert wine, although I thought it was merely good, not great, while priced as a great wine.

Next we went to Lange Winery. Their Dundee Hills Estate Pinot Noir was an amazing wine. I also thought the Freedom Hill Chardonnay was quite good and everyone else liked the Pinot Gris, although something about it just didn’t agree with me.

Finally we hit Bishop Creek Cellars where we tasted a Pinot Gris, two vintages of Pinot Noir, and a blend of primarily Merlot and Pinot Noir, which sounds very strange but was actually quite tasty. I think we were pretty fond of all of the wines, except for thinking that the ’05 Pinot Noir comes on a little too strong right now and needs some time to age and mellow.

Overall, we had a fun afternoon and got to taste some nice wines. I’m looking forward to getting out to the local vineyards again before too long.