2023 Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills

First established in 1982, the Gerries re-named the existing vineyard after Paul’s mother when they purchased the estate in 1992. Marjorie Vineyard is situated on a gently sloping bench of moderately deep volcanic soil in the heart of the hillside between Louise Vineyard and Eileen Vineyard. Now mostly replanted beginning in 2004, just over five acres of Pinot Noir continue to produce very small, highly concentrated clusters that retain the signature concentration, grace, texture, and elegance that make this a distinguished site.

Vintage Notes: The 2023 vintage began with a customary cool, wet spring in the Willamette Valley. While bud break was delayed, warm temperatures arrived in May, and bloom advanced quickly. Summer was consistently warm and dry, creating ideal, low-stress conditions for vineyard vigor—a brief heat wave in mid-August accelerating ripening. Harvest in the Willamette Valley began early and with a flurry, with Cristom commencing on September 7th. The harvest season was compressed, and by late September, 85% of the grapes were picked before late September rains refreshed the remaining fruit on the vines, elongating the fruit development and broadening the flavor profile.

Winemaking: hand-picked and hand-sorted; 45% whole cluster and 100% native yeast fermentations. Aged 18 months in 31% new French oak barrels. Unfined, unfiltered. 13.5% ABV

Tasting Notes: Electric red fruit aromas of Bing cherries, raspberries, and strawberries carry through to the palate, deepened by sultry bramble and herbaceous dried thyme. Full, elegant tannins guide the wine toward a long, graceful finish.