Cristom Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Jessie Vineyard, planted in 1994, is named after founder Paul Gerrie’s grandmother, Jessie Sommers Gerrie. It is located on the steep, east-facing mid-slopes of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Covering 11.5 acres, it is planted exclusively with Pinot Noir using a high-density method of 2,311 vines per acre.

This unique vineyard has an east-west row orientation, preventing terracing and preserving bright fruit and floral aromatics by protecting the grapes from the intense afternoon sun. The soils are a mix of volcanic Columbia River Basalts, including Jory, Saum, Nekia, Gelderman, Ritner, and Witzel, which contribute structure, minerality, and a profound sense of place to the wine. The vineyard benefits from cooling Pacific winds channeled through the Van Duzer Corridor, ensuring vibrant acidity and balanced ripeness.

Winemaking

This vintage was characterized by a long growing season, with cool spring temperatures and a warm, sunny summer that allowed for slow, even ripening. Grapes were 100% hand-harvested from Jessie Vineyard between September 23 and October 12, ensuring optimal fruit quality.

Winemaking included 49% whole-cluster fermentation, enhancing structure and aromatic complexity. Fermentations were conducted with 100% native yeasts, showcasing the vineyard’s natural microbiome. The wine was aged for 17 months on its lees in 30% new French oak barrels, integrating spice and texture while preserving the purity of the fruit. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered, ensuring a true expression of its terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with hints of garnet.
• Aromas: Intriguing floral and savory notes of rose petals, shiitake mushrooms, and charcuterie, alongside vibrant cherry and strawberry rhubarb.
• Palate: Elegant and textural, with flavors of crunchy red fruit, herbs, and a touch of earthiness. Firm tannins and fresh acidity lead to a long, persistent finish.

Did you know?

The Jessie Vineyard is Cristom’s most dramatic and challenging site to farm due to its steep slopes. Its dense planting forces vine roots deeper into the volcanic soils, enhancing the wine’s complexity and creating a profound sense of place.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Wild mushroom tart with thyme: Highlights the wine’s earthy and herbal notes.
• Duck breast with cherry glaze: Complements the vibrant red fruit flavors.
• Grilled salmon with soy-ginger sauce: Matches the wine’s savory and umami undertones.
• Aged cheddar or Gruyère: Balances the wine’s acidity and refined tannins.

History of Cristom Vineyards

Founded by Paul Gerrie, Cristom Vineyards was born from a desire to craft wines that honor the land and reflect the unique terroir of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The name Cristom combines the names of Gerrie’s children, Christine and Tom, signifying the family’s integral role in the estate.

Cristom’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in tradition and innovation. Led by winemaker Steve Doerner, who joined the winery at its inception, Cristom has championed techniques such as whole-cluster fermentation and minimal intervention to craft wines of complexity and elegance. Over the decades, the estate has earned international acclaim for its focus on single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, reflecting the distinct characteristics of each site.

Region and Vineyards

Cristom Vineyards is located in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, a sub-region of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The estate spans 240 acres, with 90 acres planted to vines on the eastern-facing slopes. The vineyards benefit from the Van Duzer Corridor, which channels cool ocean breezes, moderating temperatures and preserving acidity in the grapes.

The estate features five single vineyards, each named after a family member:

• Eileen Vineyard: Situated at the highest elevation, offering bright and elegant wines.
• Jessie Vineyard: Known for its steep slopes and complex soils, producing structured and earthy wines.
• Louise Vineyard: The estate’s lowest vineyard, producing richly textured wines.
• Marjorie Vineyard: Home to some of the oldest vines, delivering wines of depth and finesse.
• Paul Gerrie Vineyard: The newest addition, showcasing the future potential of Cristom’s terroir.

Wine Range of Cristom Vineyards

Cristom produces a wide range of wines that emphasize the uniqueness of its vineyards:

• Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir: Each vineyard is vinified separately to capture its distinct character, including Eileen, Jessie, Louise, Marjorie, and Paul Gerrie.
• Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir: A flagship blend representing the broader Cristom estate.
• Chardonnay: Crafted with precision and showcasing the bright acidity and minerality of Oregon’s volcanic soils.
• Syrah: A limited production wine that highlights Cristom’s innovation beyond Pinot Noir.

Did you know?

Cristom integrates biodynamic and organic farming practices across its estate, focusing on sustainability and vineyard health. The vineyards are home to chickens and sheep, which naturally manage pests and fertilize the soil, creating a thriving ecosystem that enhances vine quality.