Illahe 'Project 1899' Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, USA 2023

Illahe Vineyards is one of Oregon's most distinctive family-owned wineries, renowned for combining sustainable farming with old-world, hands-on winemaking. Founded by Lowell and Pauline Ford, the family's roots in Oregon agriculture date back to the late 1800s, while Lowell began growing wine grapes in 1983 before planting the current estate vineyard in 2000. Today, the winery is led by their son, Brad Ford, who serves as owner, winemaker, and vineyard manager.

"Project 1899" Pinot Noir 2023 is a small-production Pinot Noir that celebrates Oregon's pioneering winemaking heritage while showcasing the elegance of the Willamette Valley. Crafted with sustainably farmed fruit, native yeast fermentation, and minimal intervention, the 2023 vintage offers vibrant aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, rose petals, baking spice, and forest floor. The palate is silky and energetic, with bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and layers of fresh red fruit supported by subtle earthy complexity. Pure, balanced, and beautifully expressive, it finishes long and refined, making it an excellent match for salmon, duck, roasted chicken, and mushroom dishes.