Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Louise Vineyard, established in 1993, is named after the great-grandmother of Tom Gerrie, Cristom’s second-generation owner and winegrower. Situated on the lowest slopes of the estate, the vineyard spans 12.3 acres and is characterized by a mix of volcanic soils, marine sediments, and Missoula Flood silts. This diversity in soil types adds depth and intensity to the wine.

Protected by a small forest to the west and south, the vineyard is partially sheltered from the cool Pacific Ocean breezes funneled through the Van Duzer Corridor. This moderates acidity in the fruit while allowing the 27–31-year-old vines to yield grapes of exceptional richness and complexity.

Winemaking

This vintage was marked by a long growing season, influenced by cool spring temperatures and a warm summer, allowing the grapes to develop nuanced flavors. The wine was crafted from hand-harvested fruit with 58% whole-cluster fermentation, enhancing aromatic complexity and structure.

Fermentation utilized 100% native yeast, reflecting the vineyard’s unique microbiome. Aging occurred over 17 months on lees in 30% new French oak barrels, contributing subtle notes of spice and depth while preserving the purity of the fruit. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered, emphasizing authenticity and terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with garnet highlights.
• Aromas: Complex and seductive, featuring Rainier cherry, Asian spices, hoisin sauce, and nutmeg.
• Palate: Expansive and layered, with flavors of crunchy plum, dark chocolate, baking spices, and hints of herbal nuances. Supple tannins and a vibrant acidity lead to a long, elegant finish.

Did you know?

The Louise Vineyard represents the oldest vines at Cristom and serves as a microcosm of the diverse terroir of the Eola-Amity Hills. Its unique position on the estate allows it to produce wines with both richness and precision, capturing the essence of Oregon Pinot Noir.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Duck confit with cherry glaze: Highlights the wine’s red fruit and spice notes.
• Grilled salmon with a soy-ginger glaze: Complements the wine’s earthy and savory flavors.
• Wild mushroom tart with thyme: Enhances the wine’s herbal and earthy nuances.
• Aged cheddar or Gruyère: Balances the wine’s richness and acidity.

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.