Its 2006 vintage was given 90 points by Wine Advocate, and after tasting the 2007, Anne Amie’s latest vintage on release is every bit as impressive. Just over twenty miles south west of Portland, Oregon, this vineyard, formerly Château Benoit has been transformed in the last ten years by winemaker Thomas Houseman and viticulturist, Jason Tosch to producing some of the best bottles in its price-range that you’ll find anywhere in the North East.
With its cool, but mild winters and warm, though not scorching summers, the relatively steady climate – and most importantly, temperature (moderated by the cool breezes from the nearby Pacific Ocean) – throughout the growing season, suits the delicate Pinot Noir grape, and its cousin, the Pinot Gris incredibly well; indeed both are widely regarded as two of the Winery’s frequent standout varietals (Read about Anne Amie’s Pinot Gris at http://www.anneamie.com/details/44 ). It is these mild, stable growing conditions that reflect those of
Continuing from nose through to palate, the Winemaker’s Selection Pinot Noir imparts strong notes of black berry fruit – in particular black cherry and blackberry itself. Secondary notes hint of tobacco smoke and mushroom earthiness, suggesting almost Burgundian characteristics. This wine is a perfect match for roast pork, and would certainly stand up to any Moroccan-style, spiced lamb dishes.
As a Winery which places as much emphasis on its ‘Green’ outlook as it does on its fantastic wine – both in its position as a L.I.V.E (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) farm and its accredited Salmon Safe status (maintaining healthy practices and demonstrating sustainable land management) this is truly one of the many Oregon wineries which, from a modest beginning, is rapidly on the rise. Indeed, who can say to what heights Anne Amie can reach under the shared vision of the shrewd, forward-thinking Thomas Houseman and Jason Tosch, given a further ten years at its helm?
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