Dec 30, 2022
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Guillén Family Wines
| Owner(s) | Jesus Guillén |
| Web site | www.guillenfamily.com |
| Link to this site |
The winemaker for White Rose Estate, Jesus Guillén, launched his own label in 2013, initially offering a very small production of 80 cases of Pinot Noir with grapes sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard. By the 2015 vintage, Jesus had added additional vineyard sources and increased production to 1,000 cases of Pinot Noir.
The Guillén wines are not identical to White Rose Estate Wines. They are 100% whole cluster like many of the White Rose Pinot Noirs, but are fermented with native yeast and are more extracted and structured Pinot Noirs.
The wine is sold through a mailing list. Beginning with the 2018 harvest, the winery will be located at The Dundee Hills Wine Library. Tasting by appointment on most Saturdays.
Articles About Guillén Family Wines
2014 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noir First Team All-Americans (10.2 12/22/2014)
2014 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noir Honorable Mention All-Americans (10.2 12/22/2014)
2018 Oregon Pinot Noir All-Americans (11.36 12/29/2018)
2018 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noir All-Americans (11.36 12/29/2018)
Guillen Family Wines (9.42 5/25/2014)
Pinot Noir & Chardonnay I Highly Recommend (12.2 2/17/2020)
Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.6 3/15/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (10.22 12/12/2015)
Virtuous Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (11.16 1/6/2018)
Reviewed Wines
2015 Guillén Esteban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 495 cases, $25. A four
vineyard blend (Vista Hills, Meredith Mitchell, La Dolce Vita and Domingo) 52% Pommard, 18%
667 and 30% 115. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged 11 months on lees in French
oak barrels, 5% new. A selection of the most approachable barrels in the cellar.
·
Light garnet color
in the glass. Aromas of cherry, burnt tobacco, rose petal and grains arrive immediately upon
opening. Like able, with a straightforward core of light to mid weight cherry fruit accented with
subtle spice and cola notes. Lacy tannins and welcome acidity with a modest finish. Instantly
gratifying.
Score: 89.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 73 cases, $40.
A meticulous selection of the best barrels in the cellar based on harmony, complexity and mouth
feel. A three vineyard blend (33% Vista Hills, 33% Flȃnerie, and 33% Meredith Mitchell). 66.6%
Pommard, 33.3% Dijon 667. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 12
months in French oak barrels, 20% new.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Really nice
perfume of wild boysenberry, wilted rose, exotic spice and tobacco. Very streamlined in style with
impressive balance and elegance. Vivid mid weight flavors of purple and black berries with a
healthy tannic backbone that is supportive and not intrusive. The wine finishes with a gentle grip of acidity and
toothsome fruit.
Score: 94.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Family Wines Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8%, 73 cases, $40. Jesus
Guillén was a brilliant, young, and self-taught winemaker that I
met and tasted with on a number of occasions before his
untimely passing in November 2018. He was both the head
winemaker at White Rose Estate Winery and Vineyard and
winemaker for his own label. This terrific wine, now five years of
age, is drinking perfectly. A winemaker’s selection on the best
barrels in the cellar, it is a blend of three vineyards and two
clones: Pommard and Dijon 667. 100% whole cluster, native
fermentation. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 20% new.
·
This wine really blew me away and I wished that I had more in
my cellar. The exotic aromas reflected all the good that whole
cluster can bring to Pinot Noir with notes of dark berry, rose
petal, cardamom and burnt tobacco. Modest in weight, but highly flavorful, featuring a range of purple and
black fruits backed by firm, but not unwieldy tannins. Sterling acidity and a boisterous finish complete the
picture. Extraordinary now, but will age beautifully. I scored the wine 94 in early 2018, but this bottle was more
in the 97-98 range. Note: the winery is still operated by Jesus’ widow. Curiously, the winery’s website has not
been updated to indicate Jesus’ demise and I am uncertain who has taken over the winemaking duties.
Tresider Burns has been hired as the winemaker for White Rose Estate Winery & Vineyard while Dago Guillén
continues as tasting room manager and Gavin Joll as general manager at White Rose.
Score: 97-98.
Reviewed February 17, 2020
ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 72 cases, $60. A three
vineyard blend (33% Vista Hills, 33% Flȃnerie, and 33% Meredith Mitchell). Pommard clone. 100% whole
cluster, native fermentation. Aged 12 months on the lees in 100% new French oak barrels. Filtered at bottling.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nice perfume of boysenberry, wood spice, and wassail spice. A little less
extraction than the 2014 version, but just as satisfying, with a tasty core of spiced black cherry fruit. Sleek in the
mouth, with congenial tannins that elevate the fruit. The wine ends on a high note with fresh dark cherry good
will. Needs more cellar time for full expression.
Score: 93.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Esteban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.,154 cases, $25. 56% Domingo,
42% Vista Hills and 2% Meredith Mitchell vineyards. A selection of the most approachable barrels
in the cellar. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Basket pressed and aged on the lees for 11
months in 100% neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Really nice
perfume of cherry, rose petal, and sweet pipe smoke. Light to mid weight flavors of black cherry,
raspberry, tobacco and rose water, Noticeable but complimentary whole cluster input. Easy to like,
with polished, fine-grain tannins and a bright finish.
Score: 90.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Estaban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.,154 cases, $25. Sourced from 3
vineyards: 56% Domingo, 42% Vista Hills Block F, and 2% Meredith Mitchell. A selection of the most
approachable barrels in the cellar. Native yeast fermentation with 100% whole clusters. Basket pressed and
aged on the lees in 100% neutral French oak barrels for 11 months. The wine was racked twice, after the
completion of MLF and again before bottling.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose really
shines with bright aromas of plum, dark raspberry and spice. Very soft in the mouth with the mid weight core of
darker berry and plum fruit flavors accented with notes of dark chocolate. Forward drinking and easy to like,
with plenty of fruit and a bit of fruit tannin on the structured finish.
Score: 90.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Damián Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 140 cases, $40.
Sourced from 3 vineyards: 40% Vista Hills Block F (667), 20% Meredith Mitchell (Pommard), and 40%
Saikkonen (Pommard). No cold soak, 13-day native yeast fermentation, 100% whole cluster, basket pressed,
aged on the lees 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new Francois Frères. Racked twice, after the
completion of MLF and again before bottling. Filtered. A meticulous selection of the best barrels in the cellar
offering harmony, complexity and mouthfeel.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Gorgeous nose with
effusive aromas of black cherry jam, dark red rose petal, pine sap and spice. Impressive fruit presence offering
an array of purple fruits and plenty of spice. Somewhat forward, with appealing elegance, harmony, and firm,
but lacy tannins.
Score: 92-94.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 140 cases, $40. A meticulous
selection of the best barrels in the cellar that offer harmony,
complexity and mouth feel. 40% Vista Hills (667), 20%
Meredith Mitchell (Pommard) and 40% Saikkonen
(Pommard) vineyards. No cold soak. 100% whole cluster,
native yeast fermentation. Basket pressed, aged on the lees
11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. Filtered at
bottling.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. enticing aromas of black
cherry, pine sap and spice lead to a middleweight, cherry-driven wine
that is succulent yet refined. Elegantly composed, with filigree tannins,
an adroit finish and impressive harmony. The winemaker went for
harmony rather than boldness and it shows.
Score: 94.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Meredith Mitchell Vineyard McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc.,
$45. Pommard clone planted in 1996.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Beautiful aromatic presence,
offering scents of black cherry pie and spice. The mid weight, juicy purple berry and black cherry fruits have
noticeable presence on the mid palate and envious length on the finish. A spice and savory earth component
add interest. This wine has the most tannin among the single vineyard bottlings, but the tannin is fruit in origin
and not particularly astringent. The lip-smacking finish completes the bright picture.
Score: 90-92.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Saikkonen Vineyard Ribbon Ridge Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $45.
Pommard clone planted in 2003. Vineyard is adjacent Brick House.
·
Moderate dark reddish purple color in the
glass. Nicely appointed nose, offering aromas of purple fruits, spice, bark and ground almonds. Great potential
for this mid to full-bodied wine that offers appealing intensity of boysenberry, cassis and black plum fruit flavors
backed by firm, ripe and well-proportioned tannins and racy acidity.
Score: 90-92.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Vista Hills Vineyard Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45.
Pommard 4 clone planted in 2006.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy dark fruits on the nose that
is primarily offering sous-bois and floral aromas. The intense attack of dark stone and berry fruits is framed by
firm, but amorous tannins and bright acidity. The fruit offers a moderately expansive finish.
Score: 88-91.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Meredith Mitchell Single Vineyard McMinnville Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Self-rooted
Pommard clone planted in 1996. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation, Aged 11 months on the lees in
neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The aromas arrive grudgingly over time
in the glass showing a mix of earthy and dark fruit tones. Mid weight plus in style, with concentrated flavors of
blueberry, pomegranate and black raspberry framed by rather brutish tannins. Fruit-driven, with an intensely
sappy finish.
Score: 89.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Saikkonen Single Vineyard Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted
in 2003. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Shy but pleasant aromas of wet woodland, fertile earth, mulch and dark
cherry. Light to mid weight essence of ripe, dark red fruits that enter with more power than they exit. Muscular
tannins dominate making for a dry finish. Not enough joy for my taste.
Score: 87.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Vista Hills Single Vineyard Dundee Hills Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted
in 2006. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Whole cluster infused nose offering scents of dried rose petal, pipe smoke,
burnt tobacco and cherry. Silky in the mouth with good energy in a mid weight styled wine offering a tobaccolaced
cherry core, balanced tannins and some finishing depth.
Score: 91.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 125 cases, $60,
Sourced from 3 vineyards, 100% Pommard clone: 40% Vista Hills Block G, 20% Saikkonen, and 40%
Meredith Mitchell. Native yeast fermentation using 100% whole clusters. Basket pressed and aged on
the lees in 100% lightly toasted new French oak barrels for 11 months. The wine was racked twice
after MLF and again before bottling. Filtered. 100% Pommard. Jesus’ attempt to mimic DRC.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of plum, boysenberry, exotic spice
and wilted dark rose petal. Vibrant purple fruits tread lightly on the palate in this juicy wine. Inviting
integration of oak, fruit and oak tannins, and acidity. This wine will need a few years to fully evolve and
display its engaging character, but it has purposely been built for longevity.
Score: 93-95.
Reviewed December 12, 2015
ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 125 cases, $60. 100%
Pommard clone from Vista Hills (40%), Saikkonen (20%) and Meredith Mitchell (40%) vineyards. 100% whole
cluster, native fermentation. Basket pressed and aged on the lees for 11 months in 100% light toast new
French oak barrels. Filtered at bottling. Jesús’s attempt to mimic DRC.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. The
nose is replete with dark red cherry and berry aromas. Highly structured in a mid weight plus style with a strong
physique. Gutsy flavors of dark red and black berries, black tea, tobacco and spice. Aggressive on the attack,
finishing with a lengthy sweet cherry kiss.
Score: 93.
Reviewed January 6, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Guillén Family Adrian Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
12.6% alc., 75 cases, $40. Sourced from Block F at Vista Hills Vineyard
in the Dundee Hills. Clone 667 planted in 2005. Native yeast
fermentation, 100% whole cluster, aged sur lie 11 months in 100% new
French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light red cherry color in the glass.
Typical whole cluster goodness on the nose with highly fragrant aromas
of rose petal, spice, and green tea. Light to mid weight flavors of wellspiced
and juicy red cherry fruit. Quite forward, with the slightest oak in
the background and well-integrated tannins. Not as ripe or sappy as the
2012 vintage bottling, but plenty of charm. When tasted the following
day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had picked
up a little more flavor intensity and length indicating short-term cellaring
is indicated.
Score: 93.
Reviewed March 16, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 61 cases, $40. Sourced
from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 4-day cold soak, 22 days
skin contact, basket pressed, aged 11 months sur lie in neutral French oak. Racked twice and
filtered.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Invigorating aromas of black cherry pie
glaze, vanilla, wilted rose and spice. Eye-opening attack of well-ripened black cherry and black
raspberry fruits which are vivid and juicy. The tannins are beautifully managed and balanced acidity
adds verve. The aging potential is obvious from the full and persistent finish.
Score: 94.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Guillen Family Adrian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., 23 cases, $60. Sourced
from Vistal Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 4-day cold soak, 22
days skin contact, basket pressed, aged 17 months sur lie in one new French oak barrel. Racked
twice and filtered. Bottled very recently.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. The nose is
reticent, giving up reluctantly some hints of darker fruits, spice and a subtle oak. Rich and sappy, with
a plethora of fruit flavors including black raspberry, plum, cassis and spice, supported by broadshouldered,
yet refined tannins. The wine has a caressing mouthfeel, and a finish of startling length. I
think Grand Cru entered my mind while tasting this beauty. Still very young, but the potential is
obvious.
Score: 95.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 31 cases, $25.
Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. More strict
sorting in this vintage. 100% whole cluster and native fermentation, 11-day cold soak, 22 days on
skins, basket pressed, aged in neutral French oak barrels for 11 months. Racked twice and filtered.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely whole cluster nose featuring bright
aromas of warm cherries and spice. The core of black cherry fruit is complimented by a lively
underbelly of acid and a firm, but noble, non-astringent tannins. The long and mighty finish is
especially notable.
Score: 92.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $40. Sourced from
Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole cluster and native
fermentation, 11-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged sur lie in a neutral French oak
barrel for 11 months. Racked twice and filtered.
·
Moderately light reddish purple hue in the glass. Very exotic
whole cluster nose with an array of spice and floral notes accenting the cherry essence. Very similar to the
2011 Dreamcatcher on the palate with an added note of herbs and Asian 5-spice. Inviting viscosity and sap
supported by a muscular, but suave backbone of tannins.
Score: 92.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Adrian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $60. One barrel
of reserve wine. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils.
11-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged 24 months sur lie in one new French
oak barrel. Racked twice and filtered.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring,
bright aromas of darker stone and berry fruits accented with spice and dark red rose petals. Powerful,
yet very polished, with a layered array of dark red and purple fruits, well-spiced, with nonintrusive oak.
Suave tannins show up on the glorious finish.
Score: 95.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2010 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 61 cases, $25.
Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole
cluster, native fermentation, 7-day cold soak, 20-day skin contact, basket pressed, aged 11 months
in neutral French oak, racked twice, after malolactic fermentation and before bottling. Filtered.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Light in weight, but packs plenty of flavor, with
vibrant and juicy flavors of cherry and spice. Aromatically inviting with scents of spiced cherries
and a hint of smoke.
Score: 90.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2010 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $40. Sourced from
Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole cluster, native
fermentation, 7-day cold soak, 20-days skin contact, basket pressed, aged sur lie 11 months in a neutral
French oak barrel. Racked twice and filtered.
·
Light garnet hue in the glass. Very pure nose typical of whole
cluster with hi-tone cherry, spice and floral aromas. A well-sustained mid palate features ripe cherry and
raspberry flavors that carry over to a generous finish. More viscosity and an appealing velvety mouth feel.
Score: 92.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2009 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $25. High percentage of
whole cluster. Aged in neutral French oak barrel.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. A solid, mid weight wine
with enticing aromas of cherry, raspberry, rose, and spice echoed in the flavors that fan out on the palate,
displaying a balanced backbone of soft tannins.
Score: 89.
Reviewed June 14, 2014
ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Esteban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 495 cases, $25. A four vineyard blend (Vista Hills, Meredith Mitchell, La Dolce Vita and Domingo) 52% Pommard, 18% 667 and 30% 115. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged 11 months on lees in French oak barrels, 5% new. A selection of the most approachable barrels in the cellar. · Light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, burnt tobacco, rose petal and grains arrive immediately upon opening. Like able, with a straightforward core of light to mid weight cherry fruit accented with subtle spice and cola notes. Lacy tannins and welcome acidity with a modest finish. Instantly gratifying. Score: 89. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 73 cases, $40. A meticulous selection of the best barrels in the cellar based on harmony, complexity and mouth feel. A three vineyard blend (33% Vista Hills, 33% Flȃnerie, and 33% Meredith Mitchell). 66.6% Pommard, 33.3% Dijon 667. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 12 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Really nice perfume of wild boysenberry, wilted rose, exotic spice and tobacco. Very streamlined in style with impressive balance and elegance. Vivid mid weight flavors of purple and black berries with a healthy tannic backbone that is supportive and not intrusive. The wine finishes with a gentle grip of acidity and toothsome fruit. Score: 94. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Family Wines Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8%, 73 cases, $40. Jesus Guillén was a brilliant, young, and self-taught winemaker that I met and tasted with on a number of occasions before his untimely passing in November 2018. He was both the head winemaker at White Rose Estate Winery and Vineyard and winemaker for his own label. This terrific wine, now five years of age, is drinking perfectly. A winemaker’s selection on the best barrels in the cellar, it is a blend of three vineyards and two clones: Pommard and Dijon 667. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. · This wine really blew me away and I wished that I had more in my cellar. The exotic aromas reflected all the good that whole cluster can bring to Pinot Noir with notes of dark berry, rose petal, cardamom and burnt tobacco. Modest in weight, but highly flavorful, featuring a range of purple and black fruits backed by firm, but not unwieldy tannins. Sterling acidity and a boisterous finish complete the picture. Extraordinary now, but will age beautifully. I scored the wine 94 in early 2018, but this bottle was more in the 97-98 range. Note: the winery is still operated by Jesus’ widow. Curiously, the winery’s website has not been updated to indicate Jesus’ demise and I am uncertain who has taken over the winemaking duties. Tresider Burns has been hired as the winemaker for White Rose Estate Winery & Vineyard while Dago Guillén continues as tasting room manager and Gavin Joll as general manager at White Rose. Score: 97-98. Reviewed February 17, 2020 ARTICLE »
2015 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 72 cases, $60. A three vineyard blend (33% Vista Hills, 33% Flȃnerie, and 33% Meredith Mitchell). Pommard clone. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged 12 months on the lees in 100% new French oak barrels. Filtered at bottling. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nice perfume of boysenberry, wood spice, and wassail spice. A little less extraction than the 2014 version, but just as satisfying, with a tasty core of spiced black cherry fruit. Sleek in the mouth, with congenial tannins that elevate the fruit. The wine ends on a high note with fresh dark cherry good will. Needs more cellar time for full expression. Score: 93. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Esteban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.,154 cases, $25. 56% Domingo, 42% Vista Hills and 2% Meredith Mitchell vineyards. A selection of the most approachable barrels in the cellar. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Basket pressed and aged on the lees for 11 months in 100% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Really nice perfume of cherry, rose petal, and sweet pipe smoke. Light to mid weight flavors of black cherry, raspberry, tobacco and rose water, Noticeable but complimentary whole cluster input. Easy to like, with polished, fine-grain tannins and a bright finish. Score: 90. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Estaban Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.,154 cases, $25. Sourced from 3 vineyards: 56% Domingo, 42% Vista Hills Block F, and 2% Meredith Mitchell. A selection of the most approachable barrels in the cellar. Native yeast fermentation with 100% whole clusters. Basket pressed and aged on the lees in 100% neutral French oak barrels for 11 months. The wine was racked twice, after the completion of MLF and again before bottling. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose really shines with bright aromas of plum, dark raspberry and spice. Very soft in the mouth with the mid weight core of darker berry and plum fruit flavors accented with notes of dark chocolate. Forward drinking and easy to like, with plenty of fruit and a bit of fruit tannin on the structured finish. Score: 90. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Damián Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 140 cases, $40. Sourced from 3 vineyards: 40% Vista Hills Block F (667), 20% Meredith Mitchell (Pommard), and 40% Saikkonen (Pommard). No cold soak, 13-day native yeast fermentation, 100% whole cluster, basket pressed, aged on the lees 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new Francois Frères. Racked twice, after the completion of MLF and again before bottling. Filtered. A meticulous selection of the best barrels in the cellar offering harmony, complexity and mouthfeel. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Gorgeous nose with effusive aromas of black cherry jam, dark red rose petal, pine sap and spice. Impressive fruit presence offering an array of purple fruits and plenty of spice. Somewhat forward, with appealing elegance, harmony, and firm, but lacy tannins. Score: 92-94. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Damian Winemaker’s Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 140 cases, $40. A meticulous selection of the best barrels in the cellar that offer harmony, complexity and mouth feel. 40% Vista Hills (667), 20% Meredith Mitchell (Pommard) and 40% Saikkonen (Pommard) vineyards. No cold soak. 100% whole cluster, native yeast fermentation. Basket pressed, aged on the lees 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. Filtered at bottling. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. enticing aromas of black cherry, pine sap and spice lead to a middleweight, cherry-driven wine that is succulent yet refined. Elegantly composed, with filigree tannins, an adroit finish and impressive harmony. The winemaker went for harmony rather than boldness and it shows. Score: 94. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Meredith Mitchell Vineyard McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted in 1996. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Beautiful aromatic presence, offering scents of black cherry pie and spice. The mid weight, juicy purple berry and black cherry fruits have noticeable presence on the mid palate and envious length on the finish. A spice and savory earth component add interest. This wine has the most tannin among the single vineyard bottlings, but the tannin is fruit in origin and not particularly astringent. The lip-smacking finish completes the bright picture. Score: 90-92. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Saikkonen Vineyard Ribbon Ridge Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted in 2003. Vineyard is adjacent Brick House. · Moderate dark reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely appointed nose, offering aromas of purple fruits, spice, bark and ground almonds. Great potential for this mid to full-bodied wine that offers appealing intensity of boysenberry, cassis and black plum fruit flavors backed by firm, ripe and well-proportioned tannins and racy acidity. Score: 90-92. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Family Vista Hills Vineyard Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Pommard 4 clone planted in 2006. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy dark fruits on the nose that is primarily offering sous-bois and floral aromas. The intense attack of dark stone and berry fruits is framed by firm, but amorous tannins and bright acidity. The fruit offers a moderately expansive finish. Score: 88-91. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Meredith Mitchell Single Vineyard McMinnville Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Self-rooted Pommard clone planted in 1996. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation, Aged 11 months on the lees in neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The aromas arrive grudgingly over time in the glass showing a mix of earthy and dark fruit tones. Mid weight plus in style, with concentrated flavors of blueberry, pomegranate and black raspberry framed by rather brutish tannins. Fruit-driven, with an intensely sappy finish. Score: 89. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Saikkonen Single Vineyard Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted in 2003. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Shy but pleasant aromas of wet woodland, fertile earth, mulch and dark cherry. Light to mid weight essence of ripe, dark red fruits that enter with more power than they exit. Muscular tannins dominate making for a dry finish. Not enough joy for my taste. Score: 87. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Vista Hills Single Vineyard Dundee Hills Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $45. Pommard clone planted in 2006. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Aged on the lees for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Whole cluster infused nose offering scents of dried rose petal, pipe smoke, burnt tobacco and cherry. Silky in the mouth with good energy in a mid weight styled wine offering a tobaccolaced cherry core, balanced tannins and some finishing depth. Score: 91. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 125 cases, $60, Sourced from 3 vineyards, 100% Pommard clone: 40% Vista Hills Block G, 20% Saikkonen, and 40% Meredith Mitchell. Native yeast fermentation using 100% whole clusters. Basket pressed and aged on the lees in 100% lightly toasted new French oak barrels for 11 months. The wine was racked twice after MLF and again before bottling. Filtered. 100% Pommard. Jesus’ attempt to mimic DRC. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of plum, boysenberry, exotic spice and wilted dark rose petal. Vibrant purple fruits tread lightly on the palate in this juicy wine. Inviting integration of oak, fruit and oak tannins, and acidity. This wine will need a few years to fully evolve and display its engaging character, but it has purposely been built for longevity. Score: 93-95. Reviewed December 12, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Guillén Adrián Reserve Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 125 cases, $60. 100% Pommard clone from Vista Hills (40%), Saikkonen (20%) and Meredith Mitchell (40%) vineyards. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation. Basket pressed and aged on the lees for 11 months in 100% light toast new French oak barrels. Filtered at bottling. Jesús’s attempt to mimic DRC. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. The nose is replete with dark red cherry and berry aromas. Highly structured in a mid weight plus style with a strong physique. Gutsy flavors of dark red and black berries, black tea, tobacco and spice. Aggressive on the attack, finishing with a lengthy sweet cherry kiss. Score: 93. Reviewed January 6, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Guillén Family Adrian Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
12.6% alc., 75 cases, $40. Sourced from Block F at Vista Hills Vineyard in the Dundee Hills. Clone 667 planted in 2005. Native yeast fermentation, 100% whole cluster, aged sur lie 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light red cherry color in the glass. Typical whole cluster goodness on the nose with highly fragrant aromas of rose petal, spice, and green tea. Light to mid weight flavors of wellspiced and juicy red cherry fruit. Quite forward, with the slightest oak in the background and well-integrated tannins. Not as ripe or sappy as the 2012 vintage bottling, but plenty of charm. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had picked up a little more flavor intensity and length indicating short-term cellaring is indicated. Score: 93. Reviewed March 16, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 61 cases, $40. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 4-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged 11 months sur lie in neutral French oak. Racked twice and filtered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Invigorating aromas of black cherry pie glaze, vanilla, wilted rose and spice. Eye-opening attack of well-ripened black cherry and black raspberry fruits which are vivid and juicy. The tannins are beautifully managed and balanced acidity adds verve. The aging potential is obvious from the full and persistent finish. Score: 94. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Guillen Family Adrian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., 23 cases, $60. Sourced from Vistal Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 4-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged 17 months sur lie in one new French oak barrel. Racked twice and filtered. Bottled very recently. · Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. The nose is reticent, giving up reluctantly some hints of darker fruits, spice and a subtle oak. Rich and sappy, with a plethora of fruit flavors including black raspberry, plum, cassis and spice, supported by broadshouldered, yet refined tannins. The wine has a caressing mouthfeel, and a finish of startling length. I think Grand Cru entered my mind while tasting this beauty. Still very young, but the potential is obvious. Score: 95. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 31 cases, $25. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. More strict sorting in this vintage. 100% whole cluster and native fermentation, 11-day cold soak, 22 days on skins, basket pressed, aged in neutral French oak barrels for 11 months. Racked twice and filtered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely whole cluster nose featuring bright aromas of warm cherries and spice. The core of black cherry fruit is complimented by a lively underbelly of acid and a firm, but noble, non-astringent tannins. The long and mighty finish is especially notable. Score: 92. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $40. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole cluster and native fermentation, 11-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged sur lie in a neutral French oak barrel for 11 months. Racked twice and filtered. · Moderately light reddish purple hue in the glass. Very exotic whole cluster nose with an array of spice and floral notes accenting the cherry essence. Very similar to the 2011 Dreamcatcher on the palate with an added note of herbs and Asian 5-spice. Inviting viscosity and sap supported by a muscular, but suave backbone of tannins. Score: 92. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Guillen Family Adrian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $60. One barrel of reserve wine. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 11-day cold soak, 22 days skin contact, basket pressed, aged 24 months sur lie in one new French oak barrel. Racked twice and filtered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring, bright aromas of darker stone and berry fruits accented with spice and dark red rose petals. Powerful, yet very polished, with a layered array of dark red and purple fruits, well-spiced, with nonintrusive oak. Suave tannins show up on the glorious finish. Score: 95. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2010 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 61 cases, $25. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation, 7-day cold soak, 20-day skin contact, basket pressed, aged 11 months in neutral French oak, racked twice, after malolactic fermentation and before bottling. Filtered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Light in weight, but packs plenty of flavor, with vibrant and juicy flavors of cherry and spice. Aromatically inviting with scents of spiced cherries and a hint of smoke. Score: 90. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2010 Guillen Family Damian Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 23 cases, $40. Sourced from Vista Hills Vineyard Block F planted in 2005 with Dijon 667. Jory soils. 100% whole cluster, native fermentation, 7-day cold soak, 20-days skin contact, basket pressed, aged sur lie 11 months in a neutral French oak barrel. Racked twice and filtered. · Light garnet hue in the glass. Very pure nose typical of whole cluster with hi-tone cherry, spice and floral aromas. A well-sustained mid palate features ripe cherry and raspberry flavors that carry over to a generous finish. More viscosity and an appealing velvety mouth feel. Score: 92. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »
2009 Guillen Family Dreamcatcher Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $25. High percentage of whole cluster. Aged in neutral French oak barrel. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. A solid, mid weight wine with enticing aromas of cherry, raspberry, rose, and spice echoed in the flavors that fan out on the palate, displaying a balanced backbone of soft tannins. Score: 89. Reviewed June 14, 2014 ARTICLE »