Denison Cellars

Owner(s) Denise Wilson, Tim Wilson
Web site www.denisoncellars.com
 
Link to this site

Tim Wilson left behind a career in the credit card world to pursue an enology education at California State University Fresno. He developed his winemaking skills at Chateau Ste. Michele, Edna Valley Vineyard, Benton-Lane Winery and Dobbes Family Estate. In 2009 he launched his own label, focusing on Pinot Noir from small, sustainably-farmed vineyards. Tim's spouse, Denise, is also closely involved in the new winery.

The initial vineyard partner was Kiff Vineyard located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. The 8-acre vineyard is planted to Dijon 667 and 777 and Pommard clones.

Tasting is available in Carlton at Republic of Jam and in McMinnville at Biggio Hamina Cellars. The 2009 Kiff Vineyard Pinot Noir is sold through the winery's online store.

Reviewed Wines

2017 Denison Cellars Kiff Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.47, TA 0.61, 101 cases, RS 5.4 g/L, $22, screw cap. 62% Pommard and 38% 777. Harvest Brix 23.5. This wine was produced from fruit harvested specifically for rosé about two-thirds through harvest from younger blocks at Kiff Vineyard.. Fruit was de-stemmed, cold soaked for 7 days, then pressed directly to stainless steel tank for a 6-week fermentation completed under cool conditions, followed by aging. · The extended skin contact produced a moderately light ruby red color in the glass. Aromas of strawberry, citrus and savory herbs. Appealing flavors of strawberry, ripe cherry, raspberry and spice with a bit of garrigue. Veers to a traditional Pinot Noir, with moderately robust intensity of flavor, but offers the typical refreshing acidity and vibrant finish of a rosé. Score: 92. Reviewed May 12, 2018 ARTICLE »

2010 Denison Cellars Kiff Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.52, 125 cases, $38, screwcap. 667, 777 and Pommard clones. Aged 12 months in 335 new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. Winemaker Tim Wilson. Vineyard farmed by Joel Kiff. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose displays an appealing marriage of black cherries and oak. Fresh, bright and flavorful, featuring black raspberry and black cherry fruit with a slight touch of peppery spice. Moderately rich with balanced, soft, dry tannins, and some length on the generous finish. This wine also has some textural interest and is beautifully crafted. Very good. Reviewed February 27, 2013 ARTICLE »

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