Oregon wine: 2018 Paul O’Brien Winery Umpqua Valley Pinot noir

Did you know that Pinot noir grows exceptionally well in many parts of the Umpqua Valley? Winemaker Scott Kelley sources fruit for this particular Pinot from just two vineyards; Bradley Vineyard, located in the Elkton AVA, and Susan’s Vineyard, found in the northern Umpqua Valley. Both vineyards are situated at about 1000 feet in elevation.

The Elkton appellation is heavily influenced by the coastal weather that comes inland over the Umpqua River. It’s wetter and cooler than the rest of the Umpqua Valley AVA. The grapes grown in Elkton tend to retain higher levels of natural acidity and produce wines with good structure.

Susan’s Vineyard is a warmer site with higher average temperatures, since it’s located farther from the Pacific Ocean. Warmer vineyards tend to produce grapes that offer a rounder mouthfeel and elegance in the finished wine. By combining fruit from these two vineyards, Scott created a lovely wine with a nice balance of attributes that represent the best qualities from each AVAs. If you’ve never tried an Umpqua Valley Pinot noir, start with this one!