Established in 1974 by Pat and Joe Campbell on a secluded property in North Willamette Valley, Elk Cove Vineyards is one of Oregon’s oldest and most respected wine producers. The winery’s focus is on the Pinot ”trilogy”: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. The first vineyards were planted on gentle and/or steep south facing slopes of the Chehelam Mountains planted on Willakenzie silty loam and Laurelwood red-shot volcanic soil with excellent drainage. Today their sustainably farmed vineyards cover 600 acres on four separate sites including 180 acres of mature vineyards from the Estate, Windhill, Mount Richmond and Five Mountain Vineyards. Winemaker Adam Campbell continues the family tradition of noninterventionist winemaking through proper site selection, meticulous vine management, low yields and gravity flow at the winery.

Rating

Wine Spectator 92 points (Nov 14 2012) Light and lively, with expressive raspberry, clotted cream and mocha flavors that mingle harmoniously as the finish glides on. The tannins are polished, and the flavors emerge easily. Drink now through 2018.—H.S.