I live in Portland, Oregon, and I’m very proud of that. Having a premium winery within the city is a testament to possibilities and the quirkiness of Portland. How the winery secured approval from the county and city is a clever, innovative story. Ask me sometime.
The 2021 Amaterra “Swede Hill” Pinot has its own interesting story. I believe it’s the only estate vineyard within city limits, and at eight acres, it’s not nothing. Amatera is a destination location with an onsite winery, tasting Room, restaurant, and big views. Add it to your must-do Portland visit list.
Anyway, back to the wine. I’m very familiar with Oregon Pinot noirs, having worked with over 50 Willamette Valley producers over the last 15 years. This Amaterra Pinot Noir stands among the best. It has structure, character, elegance, and balance, and earns my highest consideration, Exceptional.
If you haven’t noticed by now, I love low alcohol wines, particularly Pinots for food pairing. This one weighs in at only 12.9%, and it’s aged only 30% new French Oak. It’s therefore food-friendly and versatile. We enjoyed a Mushroom Frittata in a mixed greens leaf salad.
Read my interview with Morgan White, and learn why she chose this wine as most emblematic of the brand.