VOLUME 12, ISSUE 34
December 30, 2022
ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE:
A Commonplace Bucket of Pinot Noir: Quotes, Ephemera, and Thoughts The Prince Retires (this time for good)

Search This Site:

Vineyard: Shea

OwnersDick Shea, Diedra Shea
AppellationYamhill-Carlton District
StoryDick Shea spent 25 years on Wall Street, mostly on the trading floor for Dillon Read, owned by the Dillon family of Chateau Haut-Brion fame. It was those years that served as an introduction to fine wine and led to a love affair with Oregon Pinot Noir. The first grapes were harvested in 1989 and the winery, Shea Wine Cellars, debuted in 1996. Phylloxera turned up in 1995, when an additional 40 acres were purchased. Replanting eliminated all but two small blocks of Chardonnay. The rest is Pinot Noir (97.5%). In 2016, 85 additional acres adjacent the existing property were acquired and planting will begin in 2017. Shea Vineyard is one of only 32 farms out of 500 in the Yamhill River basin that has been recognized by the Conservation Security Program as "meeting the highest standards of conservation and environmental management."
Dates PlantedEstablished in 1989.
Acres140
LocationYamhill-Carlton AVA.
Aspect375-620 feet elevation.
SoilsWillakenzie sedimentary.
VarietiesChardonnay, Pinot Noir
Clones114, 115, 777, Pommard, Wädenswil

Articles mentioning wines produced from this vineyard

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2016 Broadley Vineyards Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 300 cases, $55. Clones 777 and Wädenswil. Wild yeast fermentation in open-top French oak wood fermenters. 100% whole cluster. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Soaring aromas of red cherry, red berry, spice and burnt tobacco. Remarkably delightful even at this early stage, offering a layered mid weight core of darker cherry and berry fruits that are tenacious through the mid palate and the long, chewy aftertaste. The oak treatment is deftly integrated, but some more time will be needed to ameliorate the fruit tannins. Still, this is a stellar wine of uncommon breeding and class from a vineyard that shone bright in this vintage. Score: 94. Reviewed February 21, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Penner-Ash Wine Cellars Pas de Nom Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.78, TA 0.47, 350 cases, $125. Sourced from Bella Vida, Shea, Penner-Ash Estate, Elevée, Hyland and Zena Crown vineyards. Select barrels in the cellar. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, 25% one-year-old, 30% two-yearold and 5% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Easy to find superlatives for this special wine with no name. Intense aromas of cherry, rose petal and forest floor, broadening over time to deeper tones. Delicious mid weight black raspberry, black cherry and blackberry fruit flavors that offer pleasing density and a mouth coating finish. Stunning mid palate presence with a dreamy texture, integrated tannins, and a deft touch of toasty, peppery oak. Considerably better when tasted later in the day from a previously opened bottle and still embraceable two days later. This is a celebratory wine for special occasions. Score: 95. Reviewed October 8, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Broadley Vineyards Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 250 cases, $50. Clones 777 and Wädenswil. 40% whole cluster, wild yeast fermentation in 3-ton open-top Taransaud wood fermenter for 14 to 21 days, aged 12 months in 30% new and 70% neutral Francois Frères French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Haunting aromas of black fruits, forest floor and violets. Mid weight flavors of dark red and black fruits with muscular tannins. The wine lacks subtlety upon opening, but the charming fruit emerges over time in the glass. Nicely crafted, with deft integration of oak, this wine needs a few years in the cellar. Score: 92. Reviewed March 12, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Boedecker Cellars Stewart Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 900 cases, $36, screwcap. Release March 2016. A blend from Carlton Hill, Cherry Grove, Finigan Hill, Hirschy, Shea and Stoller vineyards. Winemaker Stewart Boedecker’s favorite barrel selections. 25% whole cluster, native yeast fermentation, 18 months in French oak barrels with lees stirring (first 9 months in a mix of new, once and twice-filled and neutral barrels, last 9 months in neutral barrels). Bottle aged 4 to 6 months before release. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Inviting aromas of cherry, rose petal and woodland lead to a mid weight styled wine with impressive mid palate presence and finish. The core of cherry and ripe strawberry fruit flavors is accented with notes of interesting spices including cinnamon. The tannins are suave, the acidity is bright, and the overall impression is one of complete harmony. A masterful cuvée. Score: 93. Reviewed March 12, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Ken Wright Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $45. Vines planted in Willakenzie soil in 1989. · Moderately light cherry color in the glass. Perfumed with scents of cherry, raspberry, dusty earth and underbrush. Light in weight, even a bit shallow, with flavors of red cherry, cranberry and red raspberry with a hint of spice. A delicate wine with soft tannins and a short, somewhat empty finish. Could pick up intensity and interest over time but the wine was unchanged two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 87. Reviewed January 23, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Broadley Vineyards Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 250 cases, $50. Clone 777 and Wädenswil. 100% de-stemmed, wild yeast primary fermentation for 14-21 days, pump overs in early stage and 3 punch downs a day subsequently. Aged 12 months in 100% French oak barrels, 30% new Francois Frères and 70% neutral. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. Rather shy aromas of black cherry, dark red berries and a touch of oak. Enjoyable core of cherry and raspberry fruit, but the wine is not giving its whole energy. Plenty of soul in this wine, but very shy with a prominent oak overlay. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the aromas had still not arrived. Cellar this wine for another year or two. Score: 91-92. Reviewed February 8, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Chapter 24 Vineyards Fire + Flood The Flood Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

12.68% alc., 800 cases, $60. Sourced from four vineyards (Shea, Croft, DDL and Stardance). 100% de-stemmed, feral yeast fermentation lasting 23 days. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Gorgeous perfume of fresh black cherries and lacy oak. Silky and polished on the palate, even sexy like a Pinot with curves. Flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and savory herbs with a noticeable oak overlay. Impressive harmony and thoroughly enjoyable, but not up to the 2012 bottling that was other worldly. Score: 92. Reviewed October 2, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 WildAire Timothy Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.55, 260 cases, $25, screwcap. This wine is dedicated to Matt Driscoll’s father, who loved to hike in the Appalachian Mountains and return to the homestead to share a glass of wine with family and friends. Sourced from Shea, Kiff, Illahe and Zenith vineyards. 100% de-stemmed, proprietary yeast. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very fragrant initially with aromas of raspberry, cherry, rose petal and dried herbs, losing interest over time in the glass as the fruit aromas faded. Middleweight flavors of cherry and raspberry with a hint of spice and noticeable oak presence. A forward drinking, back porch wine. Score: 87. Reviewed December 11, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 WildAire Reserve Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 250 cases, $35 (sold out). Crafted from select barrels from several legendary Oregon vineyards (Kiff clone 777, Shea Wädenswill clone, Zenith clone 115 and Wädenswil, and Illahe Pommard clone). 100% destemmed, Native and proprietary yeast fermentations. 23 days on the skins. Aged 10 months in 33% new French oak barrels. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. Appealing aromas of black cherries, loganberries and loamy earth. Relatively approachable for a reserve wine, with tasteful notes of black cherry, boysenberry, plum and spice. The tannins are balanced and the wine finishes with a moderately intense charge of cherry fruit. The wine improves over time in the glass indicate age worthiness. Score: 91. Reviewed December 11, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Stephen Goff Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 147 cases, $42. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of cherry, raspberry and sous-bois. Intense attack of fruit with layers of very ripe black cherry and black raspberry flavors that really attract your attention. A healthy tannic backbone provides support for the fruit load. Prodigious fruit for Oregon, and more like California Pinot Noir in character and origin. Score: 90-91. Reviewed April 4, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Ken Wright Cellars Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 725 cases, $45. Sourced from three blocks ranging in elevation from 450 to 600 feet, originally planted in 1989. Willakenzie sedimentary soils. Vineyard is owned by Dick and Dierdre Shea. Pommard and Wädenswil clones. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Muted aromatically with delicate scents of autumnal forest floor, pine forest and dark red berry fruits. More expressive on the palate with moderately rich flavors of red and black raspberry, pomegranate, black cherry and plum. Nicely balanced tannins and acidity, with a juicy texture and a big, cherry hard candy finish. Very young and primary, becoming more giving over time in the glass. Check back in another year or two. Score: 91. Reviewed December 18, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 WildAire Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.72, TA 0.55, 72 cases, $45. Harvest Brix 24.5º. 100% Wädenswil clone from Block 25. 100% de-stemmed, 7-day cold soak, inoculated fermentation. Aged 10 months in 33% new French Oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Very engaging aromas of dark cherry pie glaze, spice, violets and smoky oak. Delicious core of nicely ripened black cherry fruit with a hint of mocha and spice. The fruit really attracts attention as it is vivid and juicy. There is a good amount of fine-grain tannins for structural integrity and noticeably intense finishing presence. I am not usually a fan of single clone Wädenswil Pinot Noir, but this beauty bursts my bubble. A standout. Score: 94. Reviewed December 11, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 630 cases, $50. Sourced from Block 6 (Pommard and 115) and Terrace Block (Pommard). Yield 1.6 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in oak fermenters. Aged 16 months in 20% new French oak and bottled without fining. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Tight upon opening and much better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Aromas of dark berries, spice, flint and oak. Delicious Bing cherry and black raspberry core with complimentary oak in the background. Bright and full on the palate, with an impressive, cherry-licking finish. A keeper. Decant if you must drink now. Score: 93. Reviewed July 6, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Raptor Ridge Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 276 cases, $55. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A complex and chameleon nose that changes in the glass over time. Aromas of black cherry, dark berry jam, marzipan, humus, earthy flora and oak emerge. The boysenberry, black cherry and black plum fruit has a glass-filling presence but the wine is endlessly gentle. A little sous bois adds interest. The tannins are muscular but not astringent and need time to soften and integrate. The wine becomes significantly better over an hour’s time in the glass. Great potential here long term. Score: 92. Reviewed December 18, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Raptor Ridge Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.54, TA 0.50, <315 cases, $55 (sold out). 100% de-stemmed, inoculated with William Selyem yeast strain, fermented 12 days before pressing off skins, aged 9 months in 50% new French oak. · A special wine in this vintage with enticing aromas of black cherry, cola and sassafras. Mid weight flavors of Bing cherry, raspberry and rose hips tea. Nicely crafted and harmonious with a generous finish. Reviewed June 29, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Pali Wine Co. Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 110 cases, $56. Wädenswil clone. Aged 15 months in 50% new French oak. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Highly perfumed, featuring bright aromas of violets, black raspberries, ollaliberries and oak-driven notes of tobacco and vanillin. The full-flavored dark red and black fruits are long and expansive, and wrapped in gritty, husky tannins and bright acidity. The wine is a bit of a puzzle that has not been put together, but the pedigree of the fruit and the huge, racy finish indicate superb potential with further cellaring. Score: 92. Reviewed August 15, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 7 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., $59. Wädenswil clone from the 5.2-acre non-irrigated Block 7, located on a steep, south-facing slope. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose picks up interest and intensity over time, offering aromas of black cherry, pomegranate, rose petal, mocha and sandalwood. An earthy undertone compliments the fat, plummy, black cherry and spice flavors which are accented with oak. Silky in texture, with firm tannins and juicy acidity. The wine is shy and lacks distinction at this stage. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle, the fruit was more expressive. I would check back in another year. Score: 88-89. Reviewed November 19, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard West Hill Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $59. Wädenswil, 777, 114 and Pommard clones. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, cherry leather and bramble lead to a middleweight, juicy wine featuring dark red and purple fruits. Fruity, with firm tannins and a noticeably silky mouth feel. Nicely balanced, but seems linear and very reserved. Re-tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was about the same. Score: 89-90. Reviewed November 19, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Antica Terra Botanica Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 630 cases, $75. · Moderate dark reddish purple color in the glass. A noticeable step up from the Ceras bottling. Very aromatic. When the cork was pulled, aromas emerged like caged monkeys. Lovely scents of black cherry, spice, brioche and vanilla. Tasty and expressive, with flavors of black cherry, ollaliberry and plum with complimentary oak seasoning. Exquisite balance and generosity at this young age. Score: 92-93. Reviewed December 11, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Homer Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $79. A blend of the best barrels in the cellar. Dijon and Wädenswil clones. Aged in 68% new French oak. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is very shy and tight, opening slowly to reveal aromas of black cherry, blackberry and wooded forest. More body, more life and more finish in this wine. The array of dark stone and berry fruits sparkle, accented with interesting notes of spice and anise. A big, masculine wine with plenty of oak overlay and tannic vigor at this time. Slightly more charming the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Keep this one in the cellar for a couple of years. Score: 90-91. Reviewed November 19, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Shea Wine Cellars Estate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $37. An overall glimpse of the entire 200-acre vineyard including Pommard, Wädenswil and several Dijon clones. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Highly aromatic, picking up interest over time in the glass, offering aromas of Bing cherries, dark red cranberries and raspberries, with hints of spice, briar and oak. Delicate flavors echo the aromas. Some earthiness, but overall lacks nuance. Balanced tannins and a short, gentle finish. Pretty ordinary in this vintage. Score: 87. Reviewed August 14, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 J.K. Carrier Vespidae Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., pH 3.62, 891 cases, $42. Flagship wine. Vespidae is the Latin name of the family of wasps that tried to kill Jim Prosser. Sourced from Shea, Temperance Hill, Black Walnut and Gemini vineyards. Wild yeast fermentations in stainless steel, aged for 19 months in 29% new, 19% one-year, 19% two-year and 32% three-year or older French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered in March 2013. · Plenty of concentration and noticeable finishing intensity in this wine that features a spiced cherry core accented with herbs. Easy going and food friendly. Score: 89. Reviewed July 4, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Raptor Ridge Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alcohol, <935 cases, $45, screwcap. Released September 2013. 49% Estate, 17% Meredith Mitchell, 12% Shea, 10% Aubre Vert, 7% Goodrich and 5% Olenik vineyards. Harvest between October 18 and November 2, 2011. Diverse yeast program, 19 day fermentation, aged 9 months in 18% new French oak cooperage. · Effusive scents of dark red cherry pie glaze with a hint of toasty oak. Mid weight dark cherry and plum fruit is featured backed by supple tannins, juicy acidity and complimentary oak. Slightly more fruit intensity and finish than the Estate bottling. The finish is worth special mention as it is strikingly long and lush. This wine will continue to develop and pick up interest with another year or two in bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed December 18, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 J.K. Carrier Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., pH 3.65, 146 cases, $65. Dijon 777 clone planted in Willakenzie soil. Small lot wild yeast fermentations, aged 19 months in one new, one one-year, one two-year and one older French oak barrel. Bottled unfined and unfiltered in April 2013. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose picks up steam over time in the glass offering aromas of black cherry and black raspberry fruits. The pedigreed fruit is impressive, featuring layers of discovery including black raspberry, blueberry, pomegranate, and spice. The fruit is still compressed in firm tannins and will need a few years in the cellar to be more giving. Tasted the next day from a previously opened and decanted bottle, the wine was slightly more integrated and pleasing. Score: 92. Reviewed July 4, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Antica Terra Botanica Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., $75. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very shy, but pleasant aromas of black cherry, forest floor and oak. Good dark red fruit presence in the mouth with an earthy, cedary oak undertone. Substantial tannins with lively acidity and some length to the vibrant, oak-tinged finish. On the austere side in this vintage. I like the flavor of this wine but the oak and tannins are out of balance with the modest fruit. About the same the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 87. Reviewed December 18, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 922 cases, $36. Yields 2.6 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, 2-day cold soak, aged 16 months in 35% new French oak, bottled without fining. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Demure aromas of red berries, bramble, spice and oak. Tasty core of dark red cherries, berries and pomegranates, nicely spiced and somewhat savory with complimentary oak in the background. On the lighter side, but displays very charming fruit framed by bright acidity, finishing with noticeable length. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Estate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 3,475 cases, $40. All clones planted at Shea Vineyard (Pommard, Wädenswil and several Dijon). Aged in 47% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Open and forward on the nose with aromas of red and black berries, black cherries and spice. A charming and likable wine with flavors of blackberries, black cherries and Hoison sauce with a hint of anise. Very soft tannins and a satiny mouth feel. My only nit is that the wine is a bit shallow. Tasted twice. Good. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Raptor Ridge Trig Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 50 cases, $41, screwcap. Released June 2012. A barrel select blend of 50% Shea Vineyard and 50% Meredith Mitchell Vineyard grapes. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed initially with aromas of cherry, cranberry and spice, fading in appeal over time as aromas of tobacco, herbs and geranium emerge. Light and juicy on the palate with cherry and red berry flavors, supported by fine-grain tannins and a lively riff of acidity. Decent. Reviewed January 19, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Bergström Cumberland Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $42. The winery’s flagship blend. Primarily sourced from de Lancellotti, Shea and Bergström vineyards. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, spiced dark berry jam, and mocha java. Fresh and juicy, modest in weight, featuring a core of dark red and black cherries and berries with a noticeable topcoat of oak. About the same the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Decent. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Ken Wright Cellars Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Pinot Noir

13.75% alc., $44. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of black cherries and dark red berries with a hint of vanillin and sandalwood. Reasonably concentrated flavors of dark cherries, berries and currants with a subtle note of oak and herbs. Nicely balanced with supple tannins. This wine is slow to give up its charms. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the aromatics were much more expressive with scents of cherries, spice and cut flowers, and a delicious black cherry core had emerged, offering good intensity and length. Decant if you must drink now. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Winderlea Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $48. Sourced from Block 21 on West Hill. Wädenswil and Pommard clones. · Moderately light reddishpurple color in the glass. Brimming with aromas of ripe red cherries and berries with complimentary oak. Plush in the mouth with an explosion of bright fruit on the mid palate, finishing like a three hour movie you don’t want to end. Admirable integration of oak which adds a touch of dark caramel and spice. The tannins are lacy and the acidity brings the fruit into focus. A complete wine. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Pali Wine Co. Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 140 cases, $50, screw cap. Clones 114, 777 and Pommard. Aged 15 months in 50% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Very nicely perfumed with bright aromas of red cherries and raspberries with a hint of sandalwood. On the lighter side, even a bit shallow on the attack, with red cherry and berry flavors lifted by bright acidity. The tannins tend to outweigh the fruit at present. Good. Reviewed July 23, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Panther Creek Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 197 cases, $50. Aged 16 months in 30% new and 70% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with scents of black cherry, spice and a touch of caramelized oak. The tasteful core of black cherry, black currant and black raspberry fruit is burdened by a heavy oak overlay with prominent flavors of smoke and tobacco. Discreetly concentrated with some finishing intensity. Score: 87. Reviewed August 25, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Raptor Ridge Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., 250 cases, $55, screwcap. Released November 15, 2012. · Light reddish-purple hue in the glass. The fruit hasn’t emerged on the nose. Aromas of oak and coffee are at the forefront with deep cherry and berry aromas in the background. Relatively light but satisfying featuring delicious dark berry fruit complimented by oak, finishing very long. Very young and needs time to soften the tannins and fully integrate the oak, but the pedigree of the fruit is evident. Good (+). Reviewed January 19, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 23 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 265 cases, $56. Pommard clone. From a 3.2-acre non-irrigated parcel on a south-facing slope. Aged in 80% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Demure aromas of black cherries, black raspberries, oak and rose petals emerge very reluctantly over time. Plush core of black fruits with a hint of pepper and tobacco. Earthy and mysterious with noticeable oak. Very soft in the mouth. Even more oaky the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Decent. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 33 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 250 cases, $56. Dijon 777. From a steep, south-facing parcel. Aged in 60% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Muted aromas of dark berry preserves, tea leaf and balsam. Well-ripened essence of blackberries, ollaliberries and plum reduction sauce with faint oak in the background. Soft in the mouth with pillowy tannins and some length on the finish. Solid but not exceptional. Good. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 7 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 300 cases, $56. Wädenswil clone. From a 5.2-acre nonirrigated parcel on a steep, south-facing slope. Aged in 64% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very shy nose offering delicate aromas of blackberry pie, coconut and violets. Very soft and seductive in the mouth, showing admirable elegance. Delicious middleweight flavors of dark red and black cherries and berries wrapped in supple tannins, finishing dry with some length. The silky texture is the most striking feature of this wine. The aromas should appear in this wine over time. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Penner-Ash Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.87, TA 0.50, 500 cases, $60. Released July 2012. Almost equal parts Pommard, 777 and 114 clones, sourced from multiple blocks at Shea Vineyard. The Wädenswil did not make into the 2010 blend. Cold soak was shorter than normal (3 days) due to botrytis and coldness of the fruit when it came in. Fermented in 2-ton stainless steel tanks with hand punch downs. Aged in 25% new French oak, 25% once-filled barrels, and 50% seasoned barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Beautifully perfumed with aromas of dark stone fruits and berries with a touch of oak. Ambrosial flavors of black cherries and black raspberries with a touch of spice. The fruit is perfectly ripe and vivid. Excellent concentration with firm matching tannins, exhibiting deep cherry flavor in a lasting finish. This is a “Wow” wine that really emotes. Still terrific the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle when my wife and I happily polished it off. A 2012 All-American. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Sonría Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $60. · Moderately light reddish-color in the glass. Very pleasant perfume of redfruited tart with a hint of mocha. Smooth, gentle and seamless, with restrained flavors of red fruits, rhubarb and herbs, somewhat buried in tannins at this stage. I like this wine for its lacy restraint and elegance. Should pick up fruit expression over time as the tannins become better integrated. Very Good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Homer Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 450 cases, $82. 56% Wädenswil, 31% Dijon 777, 13% Pommard. Aged in 81% new French oak. A blend of the best barrels in the cellar and always the biggest, most structured wine in the lineup, needing several years to reach a peak drinking window. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Demure but pleasing aromas of black raspberries, blackberries and spice. The most structured wine in the lineup and built for the long haul. Also, displays the most length on a brambly blackberry finish. Very polished with a velvety mouth feel and complimentary smoky oak. More approachable than usual for this bottling, but should get even better with more time in the cellar. Reviewed November 24, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Estate Yamhill-Carlton District Oregon Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 3,555 cases, $40. An expression of the entire Shea Vineyard including Pommard, Wädenswil and four Dijon clones: 777, 114, 115 and 828. Aged in 47% new French oak barrels. 10% wood tank fermented. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very lovely nose offering vibrant aromas of dark cherry coulis, spice, rose petal, violets, sassafras and malt. Very tasty essence of black cherries and black raspberries with a complimentary touch of spice and anise. Charming with moderate fine-grain tannins and a fruit-laden finish. Can be enjoyed now. Very good. Reviewed January 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Panther Creek Cellars Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 925 cases, $45. Current release. Willakenzie soils over fractured sandstone. Clones 114, 667, 777, Pommard and Wädenswil. Aged 16 months in 30% new and 70% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, briar, cigar box and hickory are inviting. A generous wine with flavors of black cherry and black raspberry that fan out nicely on the palate, complimented by oak flavors that fold in nicely. The fruit is plush yet vibrant with an obvious esteemed pedigree. The wine aims to please with a generous burst of fruit on the finish. Score: 90. Reviewed October 27, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Bergström Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Oregon Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $46. · Moderately intense reddish-purple color in the glass. Complex perfume exhibiting scents of purple fruits, spice, cigar box and toast. A medium weighted, tasty wine that offers layers of flavors including fresh plums, blackberries and Hoison sauce. The wine flows smoothly over the palate and lingers on the finish for what seems like 60 seconds. Hearty tannins are now evident, but they are well balanced by the fruit and acidity. Shea Vineyard performed beautifully in this vintage and Bergström has spotlighted this iconic fruit source beautifully. This wine will have many fans. Reviewed January 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Antica Terra Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $50. A blend of estate fruit with grapes from Shea, Old School, Cherry Grove, Johan and Bliss vineyards. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Black cherry based aromas and flavors lashed with a noticeable oak presence of char, tobacco and coffee, but offering nuances of earth and grilled mushrooms. Creamy and silky, with firm but supple tannins, and a pleasing aromatic finish. Better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Will benefit from time in the cellar. Good (+). Reviewed August 13, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Antica Terra Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $50. Released April 2011. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Black cherry and black raspberry is at the heart of this wine which displays prominent oak-driven aromas and flavors of roasted coffee beans and mocha java. Moderately rich with supple tannins, the wine can be enjoyed now, but will benefit from more time in bottle to allow the oak to further integrate. Good (+). Reviewed November 29, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Auteur Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 195 cases, $60. 90% de-stemmed, 10-day cold soak, minimal cap manipulation, 7- day post fermentation maceration, aged in new and 1-year-old barrels. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Subdued nose, picking up interest with time in the glass to reveal aromas of dark berry jam, dark chocolate and well-perfumed flowers. Tasty melange of blue and black berry fruits with subtle oak highlights and a lively acid grip on the finish. Picks up intensity with time in the glass. The fruit is obviously classy, but nothing stands out at this stage. Still very good the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Not as approachable as many 2009 Oregon Pinot Noirs, this wine will benefit from more cellaring. Very good (+). Reviewed May 15, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Antica Terra Botanica Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., $75, wax closure. Released April 2011. Unusual ripeness for Willamette Valley fruit reminiscent of the 2006 vintage in Oregon. A blend of fruit from Antica Terra Estate, Shea Vineyard and Stephen Hagen’s vineyard near Junction City. · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Demure aromas of very ripe strawberries and berry triffle. Medium-weighted flavors of ripe, sweet, dark red fruits wrapped in soft fine-grain tannins, leaving a lingering impression of lush fruit on the finish. Seamless, with a very sensual mouth feel, displaying well-integrated oak. A black tie, fruit-driven wine that is California in spirit. One would never guess this wine had 15% alcohol because it has the necessary fruit, acid and tannin to keep the wine in balance with the alcohol. It is not my favorite style of wine, but I have to admit finding it enjoyable. Very good. Reviewed November 29, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Auteur Back Block Reserve Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 69 cases, $75. Three favorite barrels in 2009 from Shea Vineyard. 10% whole cluster. 10 day cold soak, 7 day post fermentation maceration. Aged in 2 new French oak barrels and 1 1-year-old French oak barrel. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is closed for business offering demure aromas of nondescript darker fruits and forest floor. The nose takes on a roasted, pruney note over time. Very ripe array of plush dark fruits including black plum and cassis with accents of dark chocolate that are currently buried in prodigious tannins. A muscular wine that has potential, but veers too far to the ripe side for me. Good (+). Reviewed January 11, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Antica Terra Botanica Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.6% alc.. · Medium reddish purple hue in the glass. Scents of fresh raspberry coulis with hints of candied rose, spice, and toasty oak. Very smooth on the palate with soft tannins, offering middleweight flavors of dark red raspberry and cherry with an underlying vein of earthy minerality. A prominent oak presence spoils the experience for me and the oak was even more noticeable the following day when tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Your tolerance for oak will dictate your pleasure. Enjoyable now or hold mid term. Score: 89. Reviewed February 8, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Loring Wine Company Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., screw cap. · Locked up like a tight chastity belt. The nose offers little fruit but plenty of oak. Lovely plum core is brooding and overwhelmed by oak and tannin. Very smooth in the mouth with admirable persistence on the finish. Potential here if the oak integrates more over time. More expressive the next day from a previously opened and re-screwed bottle indicating short-term cellaring will be rewarded. Good. Reviewed April 23, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Ken Wright Cellars Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $42. · Subdued, but lovely aromas of red plums, wild berries and grilled meat. A bolt of dark red and black fruits attacks the palate with a vengeance, clothed in ripe tooth-sticking tannin and sporting a lively grip of acidity. Reserved and not together yet. Much better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with much improved integration of oak, tannin and acidity. Check back in 2 to 4 years. Very good. Reviewed February 15, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $42. From Block 6 planted in 1998 and 2000 on shallow Willakenzie soil. Yields were 2.0 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed. Aged 16 months in 39% new French oak barrels. · Deep, dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is reluctant and has not come together but offers some charms of black fruits, oak, loam and red rose petals. Dense flavors of black currents, blackberries, black cherries and edible flowers with flamboyant ripe tannins. Not giving now but has a big heart and a welcoming silky smooth mouth feel. Give this one at least 4 to 5 years in the cellar to integrate the tannins and show off the nuances of this vineyard. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Pali Wine Co. Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 250 cases, $44, screw cap. Clones 114, 777 and Pommard. Aged 16 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish color. Interesting aromas of black cherries, truffles, lavender and brewed tea. Tight and restrained in the mouth yet some lovely spiced fruit lingers in the background enhanced with an appealing earthiness and meatiness. The fruit is enrobed in prodigious tannins. Hard to get close to at first but noticeably better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A cellar candidate. Very good. Reviewed July 15, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 22 “Last Hurrah” Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $55. This wine is the last from own rooted Pommard fruit. These vines were replanted after the 2008 harvest. · Moderately dark reddish-purple hue in the glass. Demure but pleasing aromas of fresh red berries, graham and violets. Delicious core of red and blue berries and cherries. Beautifully composed, with vivid and well-focused flavors, fine ground gossamer tannins, a velvety texture, and an amazingly long and aromatic finish that is flat-out stunning. A wine to treasure that is the last of its kind from Shea Vineyard. Drink some history. Reviewed June 22, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 31 Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., $55. 70% Pommard and 30% Wädenswil clones from the West Hill portion of Shea Vineyard. Aged in 57% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is pleasantly fruity featuring dark stone fruits and berries but is very shy. Tasty core of dark berries, black cherries, and plums with a sidecar of spice and tea. The tannins are fine grain making the wine smooth and easygoing. Improves with time in the glass, but is still closed down at this stage and not yet offering as much as it will. Very good. Reviewed June 22, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 5 Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., $55. 100% clone 777 fromthe East Hill portion of Shea Vineyard. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. You can really cozy up to this wine. Lovely perfume of blackberry jam, spice, mocha and that floral Sheaness. Like greased lightning on the palate with a delicious red and black berry core including alpine strawberries and red plums. Very harmonious with ripe, firm tannins and a generous, slightly warm finish that sails along. Even better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. I am not usually a fan of single Dijon clone Pinot Noirs, but it definitely works here. Reviewed June 22, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 7 Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., <275 cases, $55. All Wädenswil clone from the East Hill. Aged in 73% new French oak barrels. · Moderately reddish-purple robe. Subdued dark fruit aromas with a hint of spiced tea and oak toast. Picks up interest with time in the glass. Plush black raspberry and plum fruit with a touch of mocha java. Dark and enticing like an exotic woman in a black dress. Very smooth in the mouth, yet has a substantial structure and needs time to shed some tannins. A bit linear at this point, but there is enough sensuality now that it is hard to resist. Very good. Reviewed June 22, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard “Homer” Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., $80. Sourced from the 14 best barrels in the cellar and includes Pommard, Wädenswil and Dijon clones. Aged in 93% new French oak barrels. · A shade darker than the other Pinot Noirs in 2008. Extremely reticent nose revealing some appealing oak-kissed dark fruit. Very well endowed with a lovely essence of purple fruits. Tight and monolithic now with a smokiness and cigar box note from the oak which needs time to integrate. Very smooth and sensual on the palate. I usually rate wines on their appeal at the time of tasting, but I need to make an exception here since I believe this will be a prodigious wine several years down the road based on other aged Homer bottlings I have had through the years. Reviewed June 22, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Scott Paul La Paulée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $30, screw cap. Made from the finest lots of the vintage from Ribbon Ridge, Momtazi, Shea and Stoller Vineyards. · Darkest in color of the three 2007 wines. Very lovely nose that is deep and satisfying, featuring ripe strawberries, red plums, cherries and savory Asian spice. Tasty and focused dark red fruits with a hint of earthiness and oak. The mouth feel is silky and the whole package is very harmonious. Reviewed May 7, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Shea Wine Cellars Estate Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., $38. A blend that expresses the overall vineyard and contains every clone grown at Shea Vineyard (several Dijon clones, Pommard and Wädenswil). Estate grown, produced and bottled. · Restrained aromas of cherries, strawberries and a hint of toasty oak. Moderately fat in the mouth featuring earth-dusted dark stone fruits and berries with supple tannins and a lively acid tang on the oaktinged finish. Decent. Reviewed November 29, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Antica Terra Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 1,270 cases, $46. Released April 1 2009.Packaged in a distinctive tall-necked bottle. 53% Antica Terra Vineyard, 28% Shea Vineyard, 9% Cherry Grove Vineyard, 9% Croft Vineyard. 91% de-stemmed without crushing. Fermented in small, open-top fermenters with manual punch downs. Into barrel using gravity flow with 27% press. Aged in 53% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Teasing aromas of berry tart and spiced raspberries with a hint of pine tree. Tasty dark berry, black cherry and plum with nuances of minerality, earthiness, seasoned oak, spice and musk, which come and go in the glass. There might be some pheromones in there as well as I could not turn away from the glass. This wine has plenty of richness to satisfy, but not in the über-rich mold of SQN. It is very clean and silky with imperceptible tannins and impeccable balance. This beauty will hold your interest and is a truly unique artisan Pinot Noir. Reviewed August 5, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Loring Wine Company Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2 % alc., 400 cases, $46. About a third of the barrels containing this wine were bulked out, unusual for this vineyard. · Attention-grabbing scents of rich black cherry, spice and a touch of oak. A broad-shouldered gulp of dark fruits with nicely balanced t ‘n a. Mild polished tannins and noticeable oak on the slightly astringent finish. The aromatics are far ahead of the flavors at this stage and this wine demands a couple of years in the cellar. Reviewed January 1, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Ken Wright Cellars Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 725 cases, $47. From the noted Shea Vineyard planted on Willakenzie soils in the Yamhill-Carlton District. Sourced from three small blocks, Pommard, 114 and 777 clones, planted in 1989. · Deep aromas of black fruits, forest floor and loam draw you in. Earthy dark fruits flood the mouth and fill every nook and cranny. Noticeable oak and tar with a hint of citrus peel on the finish. Big boned and brooding. Picks up expression with time in the glass. This is a wine of obvious pedigree that has the potential to sparkle over the long term. Drank well the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Reviewed August 17, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Shea Wine Cellars East Hill Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $55. From five different blocks, 60% Dijon clones and 40% Wädenswil clone. Aged 10 months in 43% new French oak. · Deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Flashy aromas of stone fruits and berries, plum sauce and spice. The fruit-infused nose really gets your attention. Rich, full, sweet and beautifully complex array of stone fruits and berries on the palate with an appealing underlying earthiness. Real density here and one of the boldest Oregon Pinot Noirs tasted from the 2007 vintage. This wine offers a clear and unmistakable sense of Yamhill-Carlton terroir. Reviewed November 29, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 381 cases, $35. Shea Vineyard blocks 4, 21, and 31. Cropped at 2.19 tons per acre. Dijon 76, 548 and 95 clones. 100% barrel fermented, 100% MLF. Aged 10 months in 13% new and 87% previously filled Burgundian oak barrels. · This Chardonnay has the charm of a barrel fermented Chardonnay without the over-the-top oak and butter treatment. Delicate yellow color. Fresh and lively flavors of citrus fruits, pears and vanilla with an undercurrent of minerality and a refreshing finish that makes you want to reach for another sip. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Raptor Ridge Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.1% alc., <480 cases, $37. The name of this producer comes from the 27-acre estate in the Chehalem Mountains that is populated by raptors (birds of prey). · Pleasant and complex perfume of red Pinot fruits, herbs, vegetable garden, vitamins and pears. Earthy and brooding on the palate with flavors of dark cherries and currents and a hint of green tomato. With time in the glass, more red fruits emerge, including red cherries and cranberries. Admirable elegance and balance with the alcohol perfectly integrated. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 923 cases, $40. From a block of Shea Vineyard planted in 1990 on shallow Willakenzie soil. Yields 1.9 tons/acre. 100% de-stemmed, 1-2 day cold maceration, fermented in two small tanks, aged 16 months in 35% new French oak, unfined and unfiltered. Mark Vlossek is the winemaker. · Comforting scents of strawberry and raspberry jam with baking spices and herbs. Vigorous flavor and character with oodles of rich, dark red berry and cherry fruit, musk, and raw beef with a healthy tannic backbone and a relatively long finish. Put this one away and forget about it for a few years and you will be rewarded. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Loring Wine Company Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc, $45. · Brian Loring’s first vintage under his label for this vineyard (he made the 2005 and 2006 Pali Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir) and he has crafted a beauty. Complex aromatics of blackberry, oak spice and pepper. The wine is darkly fruited, with slippery tannins, soft texture, and a nice toasty finish. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars Estate Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.25% alc., 2,500 cases, $45. Fruit for this wine is sourced from the entire vineyard (blocks 5,7,13,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,28,29,32 and Oak) and includes several Dijon clones and Pommard and Wädenwsil clones. Cropped at 2.21 tons per acre. 4% whole cluster. Aged 10 months in 49% new and 51% previously filled Burgundian barrels. · A dark fruited wine showing black cherries and black raspberries with a subtle vein of oak, dry herbs and toast running through. Firm in structure, soft in texture with supple tannins. Not as interesting as the other 2006 Pinot Noirs but still very decent. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Loring Wine Company Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot

14.0% alc., 530 cases, $46, screw cap. Brian Loring’s first wine under his label from Shea Vineyard grapes (he crafted a 2005 vintage Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir for Pali). · Leads off with blackberries, pepper and oak spice in the aromatics. Darker Pinot fruits predominate, with respectable acidity, silky tannins, and a nice toasty, albeit shallow finish. Reviewed November 20, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars East Hill Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 320 cases, $52. From block 7, , 13 and Oak. Cropped at 2.33 tons per acre. Clones are Wädenswil (25%)and Dijon 114, 115 and 777 (75%). 2% whole cluster with a high amount of whole berries. Aged 10 months in 63% new and 37% previously filled Burgundian oak barrels. · Assertive scents of red and black berries, spice, oak and a little good barnyard. Mouth-coating red and black fruits which fill the mid palate with pleasure. Thoroughly refreshing due to bright acidity and a touch of citrus zest on the persistent finish. Vivid, elegant and perfectly harmonious. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars Wädenswil Clone Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.75% alc., 236 cases, $52.Shea Vineyard blocks 25, 28 and 29. Cropped at 1.98 tons per acre. 14% whole cluster. Aged 10 months in 43% new and 57% previously filled Burgundian oak barrels. · Brooding dark fruits on the nose annotated with dark chocolate, herbs and a whiff of heat. A big wine that is still somewhat closed with the fruit submerged in a prodigious structure. Noticeable roundness and a velvety mouth feel from the alcohol. Still has some tannins to shed. Hold on to this one for 3 to 5 years. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Auteur Shea Vineyard Williamette Valley Pinot Noir

$60. · I have also had the 2005 vintage of this wine and both are fine. Uplifting aromatics lead to a full-bodied style of Pinot Noir that is packed with fruit, spice, soy and a deft oak touch. Reviewed July 30, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Bergström Winery Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 760 cases, $65. A barrel selection from the East Hill portion of Shea Vineyard. Clones 115, 777, 828 and Wädenswil. · Leads off with dark fruits, a hint of spice, sandalwood and alcohol. A big and weighty muscular style with thick earth, wood, tar, char, mushroom and black stone fruit flavors. Smooth in texture with wellcorralled tannins and a mildly dry finish. This wine makes a statement but I am not totally receptive to this big style. Hearty food would tame the wine now, but cellaring the wine a few years would be preferable. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.75% alc., $75. · A precocious wine that is highly aromatic featuring black cherries, raisin, mocha and herbs. Intense and lush chocolate-covered black cherry fruit that lasts and lasts on the finish. Excellent now but still showing primary fruit and will get even better in a couple of years. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.75% alc., 253 cases, $75. Blocks 7, 32, 25, 28 and 24, Wädenswil and Pommard clones cropped at 2.17 tons per acre. 15% whole cluster with a high amount of whole berries. Aged in 82% new French oak. Ten of the finest barrels in the cellar. · Surprisingly forward for a Homer bottling. Lovely aromas of dark fruits with hints of floral perfume, roasted nuts, and oak. Red plums and dark berries are dense and plush on the palate. Very smooth with polished tannins. Remarkable lift of berry aromas on the lithe and endless finish. A Pinot to envy. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Broadley Vineyards Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir

Family-owned Broadley Vineyards was established in 1982 in the hills west of the town of Monroe. Today, founders Craig and Claudia Broadley are joined by the second generation of Broadley winegrowers, son Morgan and his wife Jessica. The 33-acre estate vineyard is planted to the classic Oregonian clones, Pommard and Wädenswil. The winemaking style employs a high percentage of whole cluster fermentation. Pinot Noir bottlings include a Willamette Valley blend, an Estate, a Reserve, Marcile Lorraine (old vine block), Claudia’s Choice (a distinctive old block of the vineyard), and Shea Vineyard. · This wine has plenty of stuffing and features darker fruits, roasted meat, spice and smoke. The tannins are fine-grained. An impressive effort by any standards. Reviewed August 6, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Stevenson-Barrie Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $32. · I could not warm up to the aromatics that showed pomegranate, green leaf and oak char. Appealing blue and black fruits, good balance, and a slightly dry finish. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Chardonnay

14.15% alc., 245 cases, $35. Dick and Chris take Chardonnay seriously. This Chardonnay walks the line between the heavily-oaked, full-malo, buttery Chardonnays and the more austere, acidic Chablis-styled ones. Chris both barrel ferments and tank ferments the Chardonnay in separate lots and mixes the two together. The Chardonnay Dijon clone vines are cropped at less than two tons per acre like the Pinot Noir, resulting in Chardonnay with fine concentration and quality. Plans are to increase production to 600 cases a year. · Admirable crispness with tropical (banana), pear and citrus notes in the aromatics. Vanillin from oak adds interest. Terrific sipping wine or very appropriate for the table with shellfish. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Estate Willamette

13.75% alc., $40. · The aromatics are floral and fruity. On the palate there are plenty of creamy sweet fruits with an earthiness and feral quality. The finish is clean and tidy with lively acidity. Reviewed March 27, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Estate Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.75% alc., 2,817 cases, $42. · Still a young wine that could benefit from decanting. Dark fruits and roseate aromas with earth, game and black raspberry on the palate finishing clean with lively acidity. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Pali Wine Co Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 249 cases, $44, screw cap. I looked and looked and could not find a vintage dating on the front or back label! · The aromas of fresh baked cherry pie wafted from the glass. There was a solid sweet red and black fruit core with judicious use of oak. Silky in texture, the finish left a lingering impression of dark chocolate, black cherries and lively acidity. There is a lot of charisma in this Pinot Noir. Reviewed April 30, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Pali Wine Co. Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., $45, screw cap. Dijon 114 clone, aged in 50% new French oak for 10 months. Brian Loring is the winemaker. · Beautifully expressive black cherry aromas, bright cherry and black raspberry fruit with a very subtle oak influence and some unresolved tannins on the backend. The second time I have tasted this wine and I found it immensely satisfying both times. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars East Hill Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.25% alc., 223 cases, $52. Dijon and Wädenswil clones from several blocks of younger vines on East Hill. · Deep, rich dark red fruits with a sidecar of oak echoed in the aromas and flavors. Velvety texture which is marvelous. Improves in the glass with time. Still reticent. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Pommard Clone Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 195 cases, $52. Replaces Block 23 of years past. · Very shy nose initially that blossoms with air to reveal showy spice and floral scents. A big-boned wine with plenty of dark fruit and pomegranate flavor held in check by wellbalanced tannins and acid. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Wädenswil Clone Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.25% alc., 316 cases, $52. Old vine plantings. · Noticeable but not intrusive oak throughout. Plenty of attractive spice and black fruit. Sensual soft texture. Lighter weighted than the above wines and to some tasters missing a little of punch in the mid-palate. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Auteur Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

This new label was started in 2004 by winemaker Kenneth Juhasz, who also makes wine for the Robert Stemmler label and The Donum Estate. Some whole cluster used, 55% new oak. · A sweet, lush and richly fruity wine that is big and powerful. Dark fruit driven and will appeal to those who love prodigious and succulent fruit in their Pinots. Some tasters felt the wine lacked complexity and would not age well but some found it very appealing. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Ken Wright Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $60. Ken Wright crafts multiple single-vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs and his wines are superbly crafted. · A terrific wine of great charm and intensity with an alluring nose of brown-spiced cherries, cola and oak. Black cherry driven in the mouth with an appealing earthiness. Seamless in every way. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Ken Wright Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $60. · Terrific nose of brown-spiced cherries, cola and deft oak. A seamless wine which is black cherry driven, but with charming spice and earthy sidecars. This is pure pleasure and silk that is luxurious. I would look for this one every vintage. Reviewed April 7, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Penner-Ash Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $60. Lynn Penner-Ash was formerly the winemaker at Rex Hill Vineyards and now has her own winery in Carlton. · The most attractive aromatics in the lineup featuring raspberry, cherry, and Xmas spice. Soft in the mouth, long in the finish, with lovely berry and cherry fruit that is soft and comforting on the palate. Delightful. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.25% alc., 247 cases, $75. Wädenswil and Dijon clone 115. · A huge fruit-driven wine with hi-toned and spiced black cherry fruit. Dense and brooding but with a pillowy texture and soft tannins. Cellaring would be advisable. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2004 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 875 cases, $38. St. Innocent is a well-established and prestigious maker of Pinot Noir with a winery based in Salem, Oregon. The winemaker, Mark Vlossek, recommends decanting this wine when young although he feels it is drinkable upon release. The wine is sold out at the winery, but may be available in the retail market. · I found this to be a very fine Pinot Noir. The nose was complex with darker fruits, some vanillin from oak, a touch of funk and alcohol. There was a very nice fruit spectrum with soft tannins, a very soft mouth feel and an enduring finish. Beautifully balanced and the real deal. Reviewed February 12, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 Shea Wine Cellars Estate Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc.. · The aromas are ripe and fruity featuring black raspberries, black cherries, black currants with a slightly roasted or cooked profile. Dense and chewy dark fruits are almost Syrah-like. The texture is silky and the fuzzy tannins are soft and unobtrusive. A victim of the warm vintage. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Salud Cuvee Pinot Noir

This Salud cuvee is fresh and fruity with dark-toned berries and cherries, brown sugar and spice. From a warm vintage, the wine is not jammy or overwrought with moderate tannins to carry it several more years. Tasted November 7, 2008. Reviewed --/--/-- WINERY »

2003 Stevenson-Barrie Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

A joint effort from Scott Barie and winemaker Mike Stevenson who is also the winemaker for Panther Creek. · Don't let the plain label scare you away. Attractive aromas of dark fruits and toasty oak lead to a big gulp of intense blackberry and plum fruit, ending with a strong tug of oak. Still closed and needs more time. Reviewed August 28, 2006 WINERY »

2003 Shea Wine Cellars Block 23 Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 275 cases, $48. 100% Pommard clone. · This wine reflects the hot vintage with super-ripe, almost baked fruit with noticeable oak accents on the backend. Low in acid, it is a bit flat and undistinguished. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 145 cases, $65. Composed of the finest barrels in the cellar. Dijon clone 115 and Wädenswil. · Reserved aromas of cherries and fresh berries with hints of herbs, oak and funk. Meaty fruit flavors are brooding. A touch of smoke and oak adds interest. Moderate tannins and a touch of heat surface at the close. Reviewed March 26, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 145 cases, $65. A very hot vintage. making it difficult to reign in alcohols. · Lovely scents of Bing cherry, violets, exotic woods and char. Rich and juicy palate of black cherries with velvety tannins and an appealing roundness in the mouth. Subtle oak runs through and adds interest. No hint of over ripeness as one would anticipate. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 Sine Qua Non Omega Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

15.5% alc., $230. Corked - Boo-Hoo. · The fruit is noticeably reduced but there are still tasty black cherry and plum flavors. We tried the Saran Wrap trick attempting to recover the wine but were unsuccessful. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Sine Qua Non Hollerin’ M Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.4% alc.. · A fruit-driven, pumped up, California Nuevo style Pinot Noir. Plenty of lip-smacking plush red and dark fruits. The alcohol is well-hidden. Like it or not, it is certainly distinctive. Reviewed March 27, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Shea Wine Cellars Block 23 Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $48. · I have enjoyed this wine on several occasions and this bottle was true to form. Complex aromatics featuring blackberries, black cherries, plum, wet earth and a little good funk. The dark fruit is sweet and tasty. The whole package is nicely balanced and with some tannins still to shed, will probably go several more years. Very good. This wine shows how nicely Shea Wine Cellars Pinot Noirs can age. Reviewed January 30, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Shea Wine Cellars Shea Vineyard Block 32 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $48. Composed of non-irrigated Wädenswil vines. · A ripe and plush wine with plenty of tannic backbone. The finish of Asian-spiced red Pinot fruits was particularly appealing and lingering. Reviewed March 27, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc, $65. Dick calls this a “great vintage.” Winemaker Sam Tannahill (2002-2004). · Darkly fruited nose with earth and oak chiming in. Brambly dark fruits on the palate with residual tannins. Enough acidity and tannin to last. A good drink. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Sine Qua Non Hollern’ M Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.4% alc., $ (current price from $345 to $499). · I have had this wine on three other occasions over the past few years and it has never failed to impress me. A haunting nose of exotic dark berries with oak, musk, earth, charcoal, minerals and a little heat. Brassy dark velvety fruit that is rich, flamboyant and sumptuous. The tannins are suede-like and the wine caresses the tongue like a fur coat. My only complaint is that you can’t drink much of it at one sitting. Reviewed August 19, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 Sine Qua Non Hollerin M Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

15.4% alc., $350. Also reviewed in Volume 7, Issue 1. This is one of the greatest Sine Qua Non Pinot Noirs and the highest rated Oregon Pinot Noir ever. · The nose speaks of the soil and wild dark berries with a touch of alcohol. In the mouth there is sumptuous dark fruit highlighted by earth, tobacco and mocha that fills the mouth. A velvety texture and a long, scented aftertaste will satisfy any hedonist. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2001 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Shea Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 140 cases, $65. Winemaker Patricia Green. A light year and the wine was accessible early. · Tart black cherry and cranberry fruit with a sidecar of oak and cedar. Light in weight and easily drinkable with a mildly dry and woody finish. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2001 Sine Qua Non No. 6 Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $220. The grapes in this vintage were large and flavors were not particularly concentrated. The wine was not highly rated upon release. · A very fruity and fresh Pinot that draws you in with showy dark stone fruits and underlying earthiness. The tannins are silky and the overall impression is that of a very decent, but not extraordinary wine. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2000 Sine Qua Non a’Capella Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $200. Consistently good weather during this vintage. · I have tasted this wine on several occasions and it has always charmed me. Complex aromas of dark red fruits, mushrooms, coffee, minerals and hi-tone spice. A seamless wine that is just starting on the downhill slope. Drink up. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

1999 Sine Qua Non Ox Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., $190. A prolonged vintage with harvest extending into November. There was very little maturity and color change in early September and the vintage was saved by heat in October. · A substantial and fruity wine with great intensity. Still young and sporting noticeable tannins. Plush earth-dusted black cherry flavors with a woodsy and forest floor finish. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

1998 Sine Qua Non Veiled Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., $220. A warm vintage, just short of 2003 in seasonal heat. · Very fresh and aromatic sporting darker fruits and complimentary spice. Thoroughly enjoyable to all who tasted it. Impressive for its longevity. Reviewed September 15, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

© 2003-2023 Rusty Gaffney MD | Contact the Prince: Prince@PrinceOfPinot.com | Admin Login