Devona 2021 Pinot Noir

The 2021 vintage was nearly perfect in Oregon. It wasn’t too hot, there wasn’t too much smoke, and we got a little rain early in the fall, but it didn’t fully settle into its autumnal pattern until the berries were harvested. This kind of timing really gives us a good feeling. In Oregon, a little rain in the forecast can last for a week, causing temperatures to drop and ending the season early because the berries don’t have a chance to dry out. Luckily, that wasn’t the case with the 2021 vintage! The weather allowed for long hanging time and just the right amount of sugar for beautiful flavor maturity. This Pinot Noir clone is Pommard, a classic Oregon clone and my favorite. Interestingly, both of our Pinots are Pommard clones and produced similarly, so the difference between the two wines is a great example of the uniqueness of the two vineyard locations and their viticultural regions. Pinot Noir, in particular, is expressive in this respect. This is a fuller-bodied wine than previous vintages from Freedom Hill. It has excellent structure, moderate weight, and complexity. Floral, dry violets mingle with black fruit, dried orange, and baking spices. Cinnamon, black tea, and leather-tinted blue fruit complete the picture. Due to the lack of fruit available, this will be the final vintage from Freedom Hill Vineyard.