Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

 

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Cristom
Marjorie 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

Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir is a remarkable expression of Willamette Valley terroir, showcasing the elegance, depth, and complexity that define Oregon Pinot Noir.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 94+ 2021
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 96 2019
JS James Suckling 95 2019
WE Wine Enthusiast 94 2019
WS Wine Spectator 92 2019
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Marjorie Vineyard is located in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA within Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley. This vineyard was first established in 1982 with heritage clones of Pinot Noir such as Pommard, Wädenswil, and Martini. It was replanted starting in 2004 due to phylloxera, ensuring the continued production of exceptional fruit while preserving the vineyard’s legacy.

Situated on a gentle, east-facing slope, the vineyard enjoys the influence of the Van Duzer Corridor, where cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean moderate temperatures, extending the growing season. The vines are rooted in volcanic soils, including Columbia River Basalts such as Saum, Yamhill, and Witzel, which impart structure and minerality to the wine.

Winemaking

This vintage benefitted from ideal growing conditions, resulting in a balanced and expressive wine. The grapes were hand-harvested and underwent 48% whole-cluster fermentation, which enhances complexity and aromatic lift.

Fermentation was conducted with 100% native yeast, reflecting the vineyard's unique microbiome. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 17 months on its lees in 36% new French oak barrels, which adds depth and integrates the wine’s vibrant red fruit profile with subtle notes of spice. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered, preserving its purity and character.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Bright ruby with garnet highlights.
  • Aromas: Intricate aromas of raspberry, red cherry, dried thyme, and subtle hints of poblano pepper and dusty bramble.
  • Palate: The palate offers a seamless interplay of cranberry, dried blueberry, and herbal undertones, supported by elegant tannins and fresh acidity. A persistent minerality and long finish underscore the wine’s complexity and finesse.

Did you know?

Marjorie Vineyard was named after Paul Gerrie’s mother, honoring her legacy as the vineyard’s first single-vineyard wine in 1994. The vineyard’s old vines and volcanic soils are regarded as one of the finest expressions of Oregon Pinot Noir.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Duck breast with cherry sauce: Highlights the wine’s red fruit and herbal nuances.
  • Wild mushroom risotto: Enhances the earthy and savory tones of the Pinot Noir.
  • Herb-crusted salmon: Matches the wine’s minerality and acidity while complementing its elegant tannins.
  • Aged Gruyère or Comté cheese: Balances the wine’s structure with nutty, creamy flavors.

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.

Robert Parker (RP) : 94+ Points (2021)
The 2021 Pinot Noir Marjorie Vineyard was fermented with 46% whole clusters, and the wine was matured in 35% new French oak for 18 months. It has broody aromas of black cherries, peppered salami, forest floor, potpourri and bitters. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with savory, spicy layers. It's structured by powdery tannins and bright acidity and has a long, spicy finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle. 491 cases were made.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 96 Points (2019)
Bright ruby-red. Assertive red berry, cherry, lavender and incense scents show outstanding clarity and spicy lift. Concentrated yet nervy black raspberry, cherry cola, spicecake and floral pastille flavors pick up a hint of smokiness. A discreet blood orange nuance adds refreshing cut to the strikingly long finish, which features polished tannins and reverberating spice and floral notes. 50% whole clusters and 48% new French oak. (JR)

James Suckling (JS) : 95 Points (2019)
There’s purity of fruit to this pinot with strawberry and floral aromas that follow through to a medium body with ultra-fine, firm tannins and pretty, tangy acidity. Lemon undertones. Needs time to open. Better after 2024. (JS)

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 94 Points (2019)
This wine is from the estate's oldest vines. Somehow, those old soldiers bring extra detail and definition to a full-flavored palate with a mix of lemony acidity, ripe red plum, almond candy and a lick of milk chocolate. (PG)

Wine Spectator (WS) : 92 Points (2019)
Deeply structured yet light-footed, with slightly brooding blueberry and cherry flavors laced with dusky spice and earthy minerality. Builds tension toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2030. (TF)

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 Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Cristom
Louise Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
JS
94
RP
93
WE
92
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.
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
RP
96
WE
92
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
 
 
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