Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

 

Zoom Mouse over image to zoom
Cristom
Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
  • Vintage : 2021
  • Country : USA
  • Region : Oregon
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Fruity Medium Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 13,5°
  • Grappes : 100% Pinot Noir

From the iconic Louise Vineyard, this Pinot Noir reveals layers of cherry, spices, and earthy tones, embodying the essence of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA.

Experts Score Vintage
JS James Suckling 94 2021
RP Robert Parker 93 2021
WE Wine Enthusiast 92 2021
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 95 2018
WS Wine Spectator 92 2018
More information on wine critics and ratings

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.

James Suckling (JS) : 94 Points (2021)
Very pretty nose of jasmine, white rosemary, acacia, white peaches, pears, pie crust, cloves and lemons. Aromatically complex, with elegant and light-footed layers. Medium-bodied. Tight and bright.

Robert Parker (RP) : 93 Points (2021)
The 2021 Pinot Noir Louise Vineyard was fermented with 46% whole clusters, and the wine matured for 18 months in 38% new French oak. It has intense aromas of cranberry sauce, pomegranate and orange peel, plus nuances of black tea and forest floor. The light-bodied palate is chalky and fresh with understated fruit and a long, spicy finish. 786 cases were made.

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 92 Points (2021)
My favorite Louise since Tina spent 18 months on lees in French oak, 38% new. Dark, rich aromas and flavors of Bing cherries wrapped in bittersweet dark chocolate are accented by bits of mint and cedar. Silky tannins and lively acidity are in harmony with the fruit and alcohol, providing a crisp, clean mouthfeel.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 95 Points (2018)
Assertive red berry preserve, cherry and floral aromas are complemented by sexy Asian spice, incense and smoky mineral accents. Shows impressive depth and sharp delineation on the palate, offering spice-tinged red and blue fruit liqueur, cola and spicecake flavors that pick up candied rose and blood orange nuances with air. Finishes extremely long and pure, with fine-grained tannins providing shape and grip to lingering black raspberry and five-spice powder notes. (JR) (8/2020)

Wine Spectator (WS) : 92 Points (2018)
A bit taut right now, with youthful tannins that frame dark plum, tarragon and crushed rock accents that build tension on a long finish. Hands off for now.

Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir 2021
JS
94
RP
93
W&S
92
Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir captures the heart of Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills, delivering a blend of vibrant red fruit, earthy undertones, and elegant structure, crafted from a selection of estate and neighboring vineyards.
50,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cristom Eola Amity Hills Chardonnay 2020
Cristom Eola Amity Hills Chardonnay 2020
Cristom
Eola Amity Hills Chardonnay 2020
JS
93
WE
92
W&S
92
From volcanic soils and biodynamically farmed vineyards, Cristom Chardonnay offers a complex profile of lemon curd, brioche, and minerality, showcasing the distinctive terroir of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA.
54,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
RP
95
WS
92
WE
94
Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir is a remarkable expression of Willamette Valley terroir, showcasing the elegance, depth, and complexity that define Oregon Pinot Noir.
97,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
RP
95
JS
95
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir is a captivating expression of Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills, combining vibrant red fruit, refined tannins, and volcanic minerality with a polished elegance.
97,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cristom Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
RP
95
JS
96
VN
95
Cristom Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir is a masterpiece of structure and elegance, combining vibrant red fruit, floral aromatics, and earthy complexity from one of the most distinctive sites in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA.
97,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cristom Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
RP
92
DCT
95
VN
96
Crafted from the most wind-swept vines on the Cristom Estate, Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir combines structure, finesse, and depth with a balance of fruit and savory characteristics.
97,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
97,90 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
We also suggest...
USA
95 Robert Parker
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir is a captivating expression of Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills, combining vibrant red fruit, refined tannins, and volcanic minerality with a polished elegance.
Paul Gerrie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
97,90 €
USA
91 Wines & Spirits
Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir 2021
Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir 2021
The Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir is an alluring and complex expression of California’s Central Coast. With vibrant fruit, soft tannins, and a subtle spice, this wine delivers a silky, nuanced experience that showcases the region's potential for producing world-class Pinot Noir.
Central Coast Pinot Noir 2021
32,90 €
New Zealand
94 Robert Parker
Neudorf Home Block Moutere Pinot Noir 2021
Neudorf Home Block Moutere Pinot Noir 2021
The Neudorf Moutere Pinot Noir is a refined and expressive Pinot Noir from Nelson’s Moutere Hills, highlighting the region’s signature balance of ripe fruit and subtle earthiness. The wine exemplifies the elegance of New Zealand Pinot Noir.
Home Block Moutere Pinot Noir 2021
56,90 €
USA
96 Jeb Dunnuck
Chateau Ste Michelle Col Solare 2018
Chateau Ste Michelle Col Solare 2018
A partnership between Chateau Ste Michelle and Marchesi Antinori, Col Solare is a bold yet polished Cabernet Sauvignon, offering layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and fine-grained tannins with remarkable aging potential.
Col Solare 2018
105,00 €
Italy
98 Vinous (Antonio Galloni)
Petrolo Galatrona 2021
Petrolo Galatrona 2021
A cult classic in the making, this wine stands as a benchmark for Merlot in Italy, consistently earning acclaim for its structure, balance, and longevity.
Galatrona 2021
115,00 €
Australia
93 James Suckling
Yalumba Samuel's Collection Grenache 2020
Yalumba Samuel's Collection Grenache 2020
Honoring the winery’s founder Samuel Smith, this wine exemplifies the rich history and unique terroir of the Barossa, focusing on purity of fruit and elegance.
Samuel's Collection Grenache 2020
26,90 €