Joe's Winos Wine Club november 2016

Amity Vineyards

White Pinot Noir 2015

Amity Vineyards is making something rarely seen and very exciting. This is not a Pinot Gris or Pinot Blanc, this is a Pinot Noir Blanc! By pressing the Pinot Noir grapes and immediately running the juice away from the skins, Amity is able to make a white wine from red grapes. This process is not unknown. One of the primary varietals in Champagne is Pinot Noir with a similar process focused on minimal skin contact. Sparkliing wines specifically labeled Blanc De Noir (White from Black) are traditionally 100% Pinot Noir. Still Pinot Noir Blanc is vastly less common with only a few Oregon producers pioneering this lovely new style. Amity is one of Willamette Valleys older vineyards and have been entirely organic since their founding in 1974. The color of the 2015 White Pinot Noir is a light copper yellow. The nose and palate are bright and lively with fresh lemon juice, cantaloupe, tart red berries, cooked pineapple and white flowers. The palate is full bodied and lushly textured with bright, mouthwatering acidity that begs for another sip. The slightly savory nature of this wine lends itself very well to fall foods and deserves a spot at the Thanksgiving table.

Pairings:

Fall salads with toasted nuts, apples and pears. Lighter meats such as pork, chicken or turkey.

Domaine Soleyrade 

CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2015

With Fall's arrival always a possibility, we offer a lovely Côtes du Rhône to bring forth the spice of the season. This blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre is only a touch heavier than Pinot Noir but offers a profile reminiscent of fall spices and matches beautifully with the season's fare. Family run for 4 generations, Soleyrade Estate is located in the heart of Côtes du Rhône. 
The terroir is composed of clay and limestone soils, an ideal combo for producing expressive rhone varietals. Bright pomegranate, plum and cherry with underlying black pepper, licorice and spice box. 
Hints of clove along with an array of dried spices coat the palate. The tannins are perfectly balanced being both present but velvety intermingling with underlying mineral notes reminiscent of pencil shavings. The finish brings delicate cherry pit and finish.

PAIRINGS:

Long slow cooked roasts of pork or lamb. Hearty fall stews with root vegetables.