
2022 Estate Pinot Noir – Yamhill-Carlton
From 40-Year-Old Dry-Farmed Vines on Oregon’s Marine Sedimentary Soils
The 2022 Pinot Noir Estate is a wine of patience, purity, and place. Sourced from Kramer Vineyards’ original 2.5-acre block in Yamhill-Carlton—planted between 1985 and 1988 on marine sedimentary Peavine soil—this sustainably farmed, dry-farmed vineyard has been tended with a light hand since its first planting in 1984.
Harvested in mid-October under warm skies, the fruit underwent one of the slowest fermentations in Kramer’s history—55 days from harvest to press—driven by a sharp post-harvest temperature drop. A “less is more” approach guided every step in the cellar: gentle handling, cultured yeast to ensure a clean ferment, and no excessive extraction. The wine matured for 10 months in French oak (20% new), developing harmony and depth without obscuring vineyard character.
Why You'll Love It
- Site Expression: Peavine soil and dry-farming yield small berries with intense red fruit and savory minerality
- Clonal Diversity: Pommard lends spice and structure; Wädenswil adds perfume; Upright clone brings brightness
- Flavor Profile: Red cherry, raspberry, and rose petal aromas lead into pomegranate, red currant, and forest floor on the palate
- Structure: Fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity give focus and age-worthiness
- Low Intervention Philosophy: Sustainable farming, minimal additions, restrained oak—letting the vintage speak for itself
Drink or Hold
Drink now for its vivid red fruit and energy, or cellar through 2032 to unlock deeper spice and umami character. Serve slightly cool (60–63°F); a brief decant can help open its more savory layers.
Perfect Pairing
Duck breast with cherry gastrique—its richness complements the wine’s acid spine and red fruit purity.