J. Christopher
A special-selection Pinot Noir that beautifully displays the depth and elegance of the Dundee Hills appellation.
J. Christopher is a line of wines that elegantly captures the distinctive character of Oregon’s Northern Willamette Valley, with a mission to produce terroir-driven wines in a lasting style that emphasizes finesse, longevity, and balance.
Owned by the internationally recognized winemaker, Erni Loosen (also owner of the Appassionata Estate, where the wines are produced), the fruit is sourced from excellent producers in various sub-regions of the Willamette Valley.
The Volcanique cuvée is a selection of outstanding barrels from the Bella Vida, Abbey Ridge, Charlie’s, and Kolb vineyards in the hills of Dundee. The wine showcases the savory quality, fruit purity, and fine-grained texture that characterizes the deep, red volcanic clay of these hills. The 2018 vintage is an excellent example, with its delicately floral aromas, silky texture, and structural finesse. As with all our wines, it has the depth and structure to age gracefully for many years.
The year 2018 was very warm and dry, but without extreme temperature spikes. This resulted in a balanced growing season. Cooler weather and a bit of refreshing rain arrived in September, helping to slow down ripening while retaining freshening acidity. The wines are characterized by fruit that is rich and dense, but not overripe, supported by juicy acidity and fine, ripe tannins.
Winemaking: 100% destemmed; native yeast fermentation; unforced malolactic; 18 months in barrels (25% new); no fining or filtration.
In the press:
“Pretty cherry fruit shines brightly here, with a seam of blood orange adding fresh acidity. This is a clean, well-delineated wine.” – Wine Enthusiast, February 2022
“Ripe red and blue fruit aromas show fine definition and complementary suggestions of candied flowers, smoky minerals, and allspice. Juicy and broad on the palate. Dusty tannins build slowly on the persistent finish, adding framework and gentle closing grip.” – Vinous, February 2022
Allergens information
Contains sulphites.
SKU: 107122
