Yamhill Valley Vineyards

Noir, gris, and blanc: Since 1983, the pinot family has been alive and well at Yamhill Valley Vineyards. Situated on a 200-acre estate in the McMinnville America Viticultural Area (AVA), Yamhill Valley Vineyards focuses on estate-grown wines. Way back then, Denis Burger and other investors recognized the unique quality of the soils and microclimate associated with this part of the Willamette Valley.

Over the years, legions of wine tourists have come to Yamhill Valley Vineyards (YVV) knowing that they will experience wines made from grapes grown right there. These are not blended grapes from various locations throughout the Willamette Valley. At YVV, you’re tasting the unique flavors associated with this viticultural area. Well-known Oregonian wine critic Matt Kramer writes in his April 27, 2008, column, “[Yamhill Valley Vineyards pinot noir] is deeply colored, intensely flavored pinot noir of real character and depth allied to a just-right finesse and balance that keep it from being overly heavy or too fruit-intense.” Kramer refers to this wine as a “someone wine,” meaning that it comes from a small property and reflects an individualistic vision.

The individual at the center of YVV is winemaker Stephen Cary. Since 1991, when he joined the team at Yamhill Valley Vineyards, Stephen has shepherded each year’s vintage. His focus is on day-to-day operations, but his experience provides him with a long-ranging view that stretches from one vintage to another. Stephen must be doing something right. The proof: YVV took home a gold medal at the 2008 Wine World Competitions in Chicago for its 2002 Tall Poppy Reserve Pinot Noir.

At the winery’s light-filled tasting room, visitors can experience YVV’s family of pinots, in addition to its estate riesling. Admittedly, the taste of the pinot gris was so good (imagine creamy lemon flavors) that my empty glass beckoned for a second helping — a rare occurrence for this WineTrails guy. With prices in the $25 range for its pinot noirs and low teens for its pinot gris, you might just want to pick up a bottle (or two) of these beauties and retreat to the outside picnic area. Definitely bring lunch or a light snack to enjoy on the outside deck. You’re in the foothills of the Coast Range and in a rain shadow, so there’s a good chance it won’t be raining.