2021 Holloran Pinot Noir 'La Valise' Eola-Amity Hills
La Valise (“the suitcase”) is a small block at La Chenaie planted to a heritage selection of Pinot Noir brought to Oregon ‘in a suitcase’. This selection is not from an official PN clone certified by the USDA, and produces wines that are quite different from our other PN clones.
Our La Chenaie vineyard site is in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA located west of Salem near Rickreall. It is a 104 acre site, planted starting in 2001, with 27 acres under vine of Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. The average elevation is 507 feet, with a south facing 8% slope.
The soils in this block are Gelderman (Jory series). The vines are impacted by cool afternoon breezes from the Van Duzer corridor, which also keep the nights cool and clusters dry, retaining acidity. It has been farmed organically since 2005.
DRINKING
Drink 2024 – 2036, decanting recommended in early years.
The wine pours a deep burgundy color, with aromas of red cherry, rhubarb and spicy clove. On the palate the flavors are a mix of ripe cherry & a hint of savory, with more spicy notes. The finish extends, with excellent length and ripe tannins. Enjoy with Skillet Chicken with Rhubarb, or Sautéed Pork Scallops with Scallions & Capers.
| Download Wine Notes |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Varietal | Pinot Noir |
| Varietal Composition | 100% Pinot Noir |
| Appellation | Willamette Valley |
| Vineyard | La Chenaie |
| Designation | Eola-Amity Hills |
| Alcohol | 13.00% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Bottling Date | 04/11/2023 |
| Cases Produced | 43 |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | Oregon |
2021 Pinot Noir La Valise
The 2021 growing season was warmer than the 20-year average. The ‘heat dome’ experienced in late June (temps over 115 for a couple days) had no significant effect as the berries had just set. We picked by hand, then hand sorted, and destemmed 100%, and fermented primarily with cultivated yeasts. After a gentle pressing, we aged it 18 months in French oak barrels, 8% new.
