Nicolas Jay 'Own-Rooted' Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, USA 2023

“Own‑Rooted” Pinot Noir 2023 from Oregon’s Willamette Valley is a finely layered, terroir-driven wine made from old vines planted on original rootstocks across Hyland, Bishop Creek, and Nysa vineyards. The wine opens with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, violet, and subtle herbal and cedar notes, while the palate is medium-bodied and elegant, combining bright red and dark fruit, lively acidity, and silky, well-integrated tannins. Fresh mineral and herbal nuances give energy and lift to the long finish. Approachable now with gentle decanting, this Pinot Noir also has the structure and finesse to develop additional complexity over the next decade.

"Sourced from the vineyards of Bishop Creek, Nysa, and Hyland, the 2023 Pinot Noir Own-Rooted is bright in the glass and pours a youthful red color. It lifts with notes of cranberries, cinnamon, bright wild herbs, fresh roses, and orange zest. Medium-bodied, it floats on the palate with a weightless and balanced feel, with fine tannins and an even, long finish. I really like this one and think it should improve over the next 12-15 years." Jeb Dunnuck 95