Owner(s) | Robert Pamplin, Jr. |
Web site | www.anneamie.com |
Link to this site |
Going back a few years, the wines I had sampled from Anne Amie Vineyards were technically fine, but lacked spirit and sophistication. When I visited Anne Amie Vineyards before the 2009 IPNC, I was happy to find that the current releases show a new vitality and the staff’s esprit d corps is infused into every bottle. Wine is really all about the people, and proprietor Dr. Robert Pamplin, Jr., has gathered an impassioned staff to pursue the goal of producing world-class wines. Winemaker Thomas Houseman, viticulturist Jason Tosch and sales manager Kim McLeod have guided Anne Amie to the top echelon of Oregon wineries while kicking up their heels and thoroughly enjoying themselves along the way.
Dr. Pamplin bought the former Chateau Benoit Winery in Carlton in 1999. The name, Anne Amie, is in honor of Dr. Pamplin’s two daughters. The initial winemaker, Scott Huffman, was a holdover from Chateau Benoit. Huffman was succeeded by Thomas Houseman. Houseman’s story would make a good movie. He was an accomplished modern dancer living in New York and traveling the world when he began to assist his company’s lighting director in making beer. Sufficiently intrigued by fermentation and its after products, he left New York and enrolled in the enology and viticulture program at University California Fresno. His love for Pinot Noir led him to winemaking jobs at Husch Vineyards in the Anderson Valley of California and Bleinheim Winery and Bell Hill Winery owned by the Giesen brothers in North Canterbury, New Zealand. Upon returning to the states, he was mentored by Dick and Luisa Ponzi at Ponzi Vineyards in Oregon before becoming Director of Winemaking at Anne Amie.
The important role of a viticulturist in the production of Pinot Noir cannot be underestimated. The Director of Viticulture at Anne Amie, Jason Tosch, is an Oregon native who came to Anne Amie from Ponzi Vineyards. He has transformed all the Anne Amie estate vineyards to LIVE (Low Input Viticulture & Enology) and Salmon Safe certification. The estate vineyards are located in the rolling hills of Yamhill-Carlton District and on the steep hillsides of the Chehalem Mountains.
Anne Amie also sources grapes from several prominent vineyards in the Willamette Valley.
In 2021, Gabriela Vignes became the new winemaker when Houseman left to accept a winemaking job in Michigan. Vignes, who originally came from Santiago, Chile, has experience in wineries all over the world including Chile, France, New Zealand, Australia, and the US.
The tasting room has a pleasant outdoor patio with views of the surrounding vineyards. The LIVE certified winery is located in Yamhill-Carlton, at 6580 NE Mineral Springs Road, a few miles from both Lafayette and Carlton, Oregon. Wines may be ordered from the website. 503-864-2991. The winery produces Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Riesling and Oregon's best Pinot Noir Blanc, Prismé, in addition to Pinot Noir.
2014 Anne Amie Vineyards Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $25. Winemaker Thomas Houseman crafts this wine from estate vineyards that are farmed as if they are going to be in the highest bottling they produce. He notes, “We try to make the best Willamette Valley bottling every year, regardless of what it costs to make it.” Estate grown, produced and bottled. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 11.4% new, 21.4% 1-year, and 67.2% neutral. Aged an additional 6 months in bottle. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Demure aromas of cherry and potpourri lead to a lighter weighted style of wine, offering flavors of red cherry, red berry, spice and oak. Nicely composed and easy to like, with an admirable fruit-driven finish. Score: 89. Reviewed August 29, 2016 ARTICLE »
2013 Anne Amie Two Estates Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., 2,000 cases, $N/A. 68% Twelve Oaks Estate and 32% Anne Amie Estate. About 20% whole cluster. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with effusive aromas of cherry, rose petal and spice. More intensity, structure, and length than the Willamette Valley bottling, featuring inviting flavors of cherry, raspberry and spice. Forward drinking, with invitingly juicy acidity making for a vibrant, fullflavored wine. Score: 90-91. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Anne Amie Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
4,000 cases, $28. Crafted in a different style than in previous vintages (softer and more demure) and priced less. Softer and more demure. Aged 9 to10 months in barrel rather than 16 months as in previous vintages. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A solid, forward-drinking wine with pleasant cherry aroma and flavor framed by soft, supple tannins, finishing on a brisk and refreshing note. Score: 88. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Anne Amie Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.59, 2,435 cases, $28. Release October 2015. 37% Anne Amie Estate, 53.7% Twelve Oaks Estate and 9.3% Huntington Hill. Multiple Dijon clones, Pommard 4 and Wädenswil 2A. Fruit was de-stemmed, an extended postfermentation maceration, and aged on the lees in French oak barrels for 10 months, 14.8% new. Once bottled, the wine was aged 6 months before release. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose shyly reveals aromas of darker fruits and cardamom spice with the slightest sweet oak. Luscious and opulent on the palate, with a mid weight plus charge of black cherry and blackberry fruits nicely spiced and complimented by a touch of anise-laced oak. Very enjoyable now. Score: 89-90. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Anne Amie Anne Amie Estate Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.64, 150 cases, $40. Released March 2015. Clones are Pommard and Dijon 115. Aged 16 months in 100% French oak barrels racked into neutral French oak barrels after 10 months), 16.6% new, 66.7% 1-year, and 16.7% neutral. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and bottle-aged for 12 months before release. · Deep, dark violet color in the glass. Very restrained aromas of sous-bois, black cherry and blackberry lead to a full-bodied style that is plush with purple and black fruits. The tannins are rather rugged and muscular at this stage, even chewy, but are offset by a good vein of acidity. The long finish suggests potential with further cellaring. Score: 90-91. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Anne Amie Prismé Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., pH 3.25, TA 0.56, 364 cases, $40. Released June 2015. 100% Anne Amie Estate. Barrel fermented in French oak puncheons, lees stirring, 80% malolactic fermentation, and aged 16 months on its lees in 100% French oak barrels, 20% new. · Light yellow color in the glass. Inviting perfume of fresh cut Gravenstein apple, vanilla cream and fig. Slightly viscous on the palate, with a complex flavor profile featuring notes of apple, tropical citrus, pear and pastry cream. The finish shows remarkable persistence for a white wine. A very unique, serious wine that is one of the best examples of this white varietal. Score: 92. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Boisseau Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.62, 125 cases, $40. Released March 2015. From the Brousseau block at Twelve Oaks Estate. At 750 feet elevation, Anne Amie’s highest elevation Pinot Noir planting and a cool site that does best in warmer vintages. Pommard 4, 667 and 777 clones. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged a total of 16 months in French oak barrels, 54.5% new, and racked into neutral French oak barrels after 10 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and bottleaged for 12 months before release. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of fresh cherry, strawberry, spice and toasty oak. Vibrant and clean on entry with a core of black cherry fruit that really makes a statement. Beautifully crafted with a seamless composure, finishing with amazing generosity. Score: 93-94. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Louise Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.61, 150 cases, $40. Released March 2015. Louis Vineyard is the lowest elevation planting on the Twelve Oaks Estate making it a warmer site. Pommard 4 and Dijon 777 clones. Grapes were de-stemmed, cold-soaked for 5 days, aged a total of 16 months in French oak barrels, 45.5% new, racked into neutral French oak barrels after 10 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and bottle-aged for 12 months before release. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Slightly brooding aromas of black raspberry, cassis, underbrush, pine and spice. Bursting with luscious dark fruits, but somewhat reticent at this stage. A little more tannin and more oak overlay compared to the Boisseau Vineyard bottling, but a similar well-endowed finish. Score: 91-92. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Cube Anne Amie Estate Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir
13.3% alc.. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with fresh cherries and spice. Intensely flavorful on the mid palate and finish, yet light on its feet, with a flourish of Bing cherry and plum fruit, herbs, spice and sandalwood. The following day, the wine was noticeably more aromatic and equally flavorful with a good firm structure and bright acidity for aging. Score: 90. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Cube Bouchaine Estate Vineyard Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.. · Moderately light garnet hue in the glass. An array of scents stand out including cherry, black raspberry and exotic spices. Soft and smooth on the palate with plenty of body, lively acidity, and flavorful notes of purple grapes, plum, and black cherry. The following day, the wine was more earthy and savory in character. Score: 90. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Cube Lincourt Lindsay’s Vineyard Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir
14.1% alc.. · Dark, dense reddish purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of black raspberry, grape, spice and herbs. This wine has the most sap, shows the most oak sheen, and is the most luscious featuring full flavors of purple grape, dark raspberry and black currant. The following day, the fruit tasted too ripe and raisiny, and nose was heavy with smoky oak. The fruit core was massive and the finish was big, but it was a tad too much for me. Score: 87. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Anne Amie Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., pH 3.56, TA 0.64, 4,286 cases, $30. Released January 2014. 44.1% Anne Amie Estate, 42% Twelve Oaks Estate, 9.8% Rainbow Ridge, and 4.1% Alloro vineyards. Harvest extended to November 6. Largely de-stemmed, 7-21-day cold soak, extended maceration, and on the skins for a total of 28-40 days. Free-run and light pressings were combined and aged 11 months in 29.9% new, 10.3% 1-year, and 59.8% neutral French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Intriguing aromas of cherry, rose petal and exotic spices. The core of red cherry and cranberry fruit is satisfying, but the nose is the best feature of this easy to drink wine. Suave tannins and a refreshing lift of acidity on the finish complete the experience. Score: 88. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Anne Amie Anne Amie Estate Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.65, 198 cases, $40. Released November 2013. Clones are Pommard 4 and 115 grown in Willakenzie soil. Largely de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged 16 months in 3% new, 25% 1-year and 72% neutral French oak. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Deep aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and a hint of spice. The fruit has a riper profile than the Twelve Oaks with darker stone and berry fruit and a touch of herbs and floral goodness in the background. The best feature is the big, bright, juicy cherry finish which is very prominent the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.62, 194 cases, $40. Released November 2013. Laurelwood soil. Clones 115, Pommard 4, 777 and Wädenswil. Largely de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged 12 months in 25% new, 18% 1-year, and 57% neutral French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Hi-tone aromas of cherry, balsam, rose petal and spice draw you in. Mid weight flavors of black cherry and spice and caressed by supple tannins. Very silky on the palate with a bright finish. Still charming the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 92. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Anne Amie Marilyn Chehalem Mountains Brut Rosé
12.0% alc., pH 3.01, TA 0.83, RS .02%, 298 cases, $45. Released February 2015. 100% Twelve Oaks Estate. Production was by traditional méthode champenoise, aged on the lees en tirage for 3 years, and a dosage added after disgorgement. Aged a further 4 months in bottle before release. · Pretty pink-orange color in the glass with a good bead. Aromas of blood orange, peach and raspberry lead to a dry, crisp experience featuring flavors of blood orange, strawberry and Damsel plum. The fruit intensity is discreetly concentrated and satisfying, and the wine sports a refreshing finish than really cleanses the palate. I agree with Thomas regarding suggested food pairings: anything! Score: 92. Reviewed July 23, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Anne Amie L’Iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $60. 15-20% whole cluster. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose leads with aromas of cherry, smoke and piney oak. Very elegant, and highly appealing on the palate in a mid weight style with plenty of fresh cranberry and black cherry fruit flavor, and a compliment of spice. Soft tannins make for easy accessibility. Score: 90-91. Reviewed September 3, 2015 ARTICLE »
2010 Anne Amie Vineyards Cuvée A Oregon Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $25, screw cap. · Light garnet color in the glass. Delicate aromas of red cherries and berries with hints of nutmeg and oak. Light, bright and refreshing, with flavors of strawberries and cherries. Nimble with zingy acidity and very reserved tannins. A fine Saturday BBQ wine. Decent. Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Annie Amie Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.62, 1,971 cases, $35. Release February 2013. Anne Amie Estate, Twelve Oaks Estate, Rainbow Ridge and Alloro vineyards. 7-20 day cold soak, extended maceration, on skins 28-49 days. Aged on lees in 15% new, 34% 1-year, and 51% neutral French oak barrels for 16 months. Aged in bottle for 12 months before release. · Raspberry color in the glass. Nicely scented with aromas of fresh raspberry coulis and spice. Moderately rich with flavors of sweet red plums and dark raspberries, with the fruit pulled into line with good acidity and fine tannins. A very impressive Willamette Valley bottling that can perform beautifully as a daily drinker. I recommend it for case buys. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anne Amie Estate Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.59, 124 cases, $50. Release May 2013. 100% estate vineyard grapes. Pommard and Dijon 115 clones grown on Willakenzie soils. Aged 16 months in 60% new, 20% 1-year and 20% neutral French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and bottle aged for 12 months before release. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Vibrant aromas of fresh dark cherries and berries complimented with exotic spices. A serious wine with structural power, featuring sappy dark plum and blackberry flavors, backed by frisky acidity and fine-grain tannins, finishing with poise and richness. Still a Lolita. Very good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anne Amie Prismé Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.66, 268 cases, $50. Released May 2013. Sourced from Anne Amie Estate and Rainbow Ridge vineyards. Clones are Pommard and 115. Free-run juice was racked into French oak puncheons and barrel fermented with lees stirring, full malolactic fermentation, and aged for 18 months in 38% new and 62% neutral oak before bottling. · This is a serious wine that displays intriguing complexity. Mild golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The aromatic profile is quite pleasing with scents of pear, baked apple, kiwi and vanilla. Slightly creamy on the palate and juicy acidity on the finish with an array of flavors including pear, apple and peach with a nutty undertone. Much more expressive and alive the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Peaches and cream is the main theme but hints of coconut and pineapple add interest. Score: 92. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2010 Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.63, 124 cases, $50. 100% Twelve Oaks Estate Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains. 5-day cold soak, 10-day fermentation. Aged 16 months in 40% new, 20% 1-year and 40% neutral French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and bottle aged for 12 months before release. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. The aromas leap out of the glass with effusive notes of fresh berries, roses and spice. Deep, dark red berry, strawberry nectar reduction, and brown spice flavors with well proportioned acidity and tannins, finishing with a sappy cherry highlight. Very good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anne Amie L’Iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.61, 230 cases, $60. Released May 2014. 74.2% Twelve Oaks Estate, 15.8% Rainbow Ridge and 10% Anne Amie Estate. Clones are Pommard 4, 667, 777, 114, 113, 115, and Wädenswil. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, free-run juice was racked into French oak barrels where the wine completed malolactic fermentation. Aged 18 months in 20.5% new, 35% 1-year, and 44.5% neutral French oak and 2-3 years in bottle. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Vibrant aromas of cherry, red berry, sandalwood and spice lead to an elegantly styled wine that charms you with flavors of red cherries and berries, blueberries, savory herbs, spice and a compliment of oak-driven notes. The tannins are evident but not intrusive and indicate age ability, and the finish is a veritable spice bomb. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was flat-out great. Score: 94. Reviewed June 9, 2014 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie Cuvée A Williamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.59, 3,770 cases, $25. Release date is May, 2011. A blend of grapes from eight vineyards including some estate fruit. Clones 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard 4 and 2A. Willakenzie and Laurelwood soils. Aged 10 months in 16% new, 18% 1-year old, and 66% neutral French oak barrels. 100% de-stemmed, extended cold soak and maceration (on skins 28-40 days), free run and press juice combined. Aged 6 months in bottle before release. · Subdued aromas upon opening, evolving in the glass to reveal attractive scents of cherries, mixed berries, oak and roses. A wine that aims to please with its easy drinking cherry, cranberry, grape soda flavors wrapped in supple tannins and framed by lively acidity. A solid back porch pounder that is ready to go now. Good (+). Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., pH 3.56, TA 059, 2,600 cases, $35, screw cap. Released November 2011. Pommard and multiple Dijon clones. 100% destemmed, 7-21-day cold soak, extended maceration, on the skins for 28-40 days. Free-run and light pressings combined, racked to barrel and aged for 10 months in 21% new, 20% 1-year, and 50% neutral French oak barrels. The wine was aged 12 months before release. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Very appealing nose, with bright aromas of black cherries, black cap raspberries and even a hint of grilled peaches. Mid weight core of dark red cherries and berries picking up heft and interest over time in the glass. Well-balanced and easy to drink, with a pleasingly fruity finish. Good (+). Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie Prismé Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., 404 cases, $45, screw cap. Sourced from Anne Amie Estate and Rainbow Ridge vineyards. Barrel fermented, full MOF, and aged on lees for 18 months. Previously reviewed May 11, 2012. · Aromas of white stone fruits, biscuit, crème brulée, and roasted nuts. Delicious and full on the palate with slight viscosity, offering flavors of baked pears, white peaches, and brown butter. A highly enjoyable, unique wine that challenges the preconceived sense of Pinot Noir. Oregon’s finest Pinot Noir blanc. Very good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie Vineyards Prismé Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., pH 3.31, TA 0.59, 404 cases, $45, screw cap. Released May 2012. Sourced from Anne Amie Estate and Rainbow Ridge vineyards. Pommard and Dijon 115 clones. Aged 18 months in 25% new, 25% 1- year-old, and 50% neutral French oak barrels. Free run juice with no skin contact, entirely barrel fermented, lees stirred, and aged on the lees in oak barrels for 18 months. · Pale yellow color in the glass. Very aromatic with vivid scents of crème brulée, golden apples, buttered brioche, honeysuckle and baked pear. Substantial and delicious with full-bodied flavors of pear, white peach, golden apple, citrus, nutmeg and brown butter persisting on the generous and lengthy finish. Reminds one of Chardonnay but different. Creamy mouth feel with good underlying acidity. A remarkable wine that confirms the saying that Pinot Noir is a white wine masquerading as a red wine. Very special and quite unique. Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie L’Iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 260 cases, pH 3.63, TA 0.56, $75. Release May 2013. A barrel selection sourced from several vineyards including Anne Amie Estate and Twelve Oaks Estate. Pommard, 777, 115 and 828 clones. 100% de-stemmed. Aged 18 months in 20% new, 40% 1-year, and 40% neutral French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. A wine with serious intentions and longevity. Bright aromas of berry mash with baking spices and clove. Moderately rich core of black cherry, berry and plum fruit flavors with an earthy, tea accent. Powerfully structured so will need time for the tannins to soften. Impressive. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Anne Amie Vineyards L’iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.56, 260 cases, $75. Release date August 2012. Sourced from the finest blocks. Aged 18 months. Multiple vineyard sources including Anne Amie Estate. Clones are Pommard and Dijon 777, 115 and 828. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged 18 months in 20% new, 40% 1-year and 40% neutral French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered followed by extensive bottle aging. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of dark red, spiced berries and cherries. Elegantly composed flavors of black cherries, black raspberry jam and anise, lifted with bright acidity, wrapped in suave tannins, finishing long and smooth. The impression is one of finesse and nuance rather than power. Definitely age worthy. Very good. Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie Vineyards Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (barrel sample blend trial)
Intense garnet color. Brioche and dark berries on the nose. Lush darker fruits with notable tannins. This will be a crowd pleaser. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., December 2010 release, screw cap. Composed of grapes from 11 vineyards. Clones Pommard 4, 114, 115, 667, 777, 828. Aged 10 mos in 26% new, 20% 1-year-old, and 54% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Alluring aromas of crushed berries and dark red cherries with whiffs of Coca-Cola and rosehips. Flavors of black raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and cherry skins flood the mouth with pleasure, caressed by fine grain tannins and framed vividly by bright acidity. I couldn’t stop drinking this one. A terrific Willamette Valley blend that packs in plenty of pleasure. Kudos to winemaker Thomas Houseman who has brought Anne Amie into the upper echelon of Willamette Valley producers. A featured winery at the 2010 International Pinot Noir Celebration. Reviewed August 7, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 Cuvée A Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (barrel sample blend trial)
Darker in color with more body and richness than the 2007 vintage. Intense dark cherry fruit with soft, restrained tannins. Should eclipse the excellent 2007 version. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2008 Cuvée A Midnight Saignée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé
13.43% alc., 309 cases, $15, released May 2009. Grapes are de-stemmed, cold soaked for 5 days, with a saignée on the second day to concentrate flavors. The wine is a blend of all Pinot Noir saignée lots representing multiple vineyards and AVAs. Barrel fermented in neutral French oak barrels to dryness, remaining on the lees until blending. · Pretty coral color. Aromas and flavors of fresh summer strawberries, cranberries and cherries with respectable mid-palate richness. Clean, pure and satisfying. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $35, screw cap. Release date is Novermber 2010. Sourced from 10 vineyards including 22% estate fruit. Willakenzie, Laurelwood and Jory soils. Clones Pommard 4, Dijon 114, 115, 667, 777 and 828. Aged 10 months in 26% new, 20% 1 year and 54% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Fresh aromas of dark red berries and a hint of clove. Tasty potpourri of cherries, strawberries and raspberries with a tangy citrus note adding a spring to the pleasing finish. Relatively straightforward but drinks really well. An outstanding Willamette Valley blend. Very good. Reviewed June 22, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie Prismé Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., $47. · Pale yellow-straw color in the glass. Similar aromatic profile to the 2007 vintage but less evolved and opening slowly in the glass. Perfume of pears, pastry cream, confected nuts and toasted bread. Very creamy on the palate with subdued but appealing flavors of hazelnuts, caramel corn, citrus, vanilla, and white stone fruits. Bright acidity with supple tannins. Give this more time in the cellar for full expression. Very good. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie Anahala Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $50, screw cap. A Fall 2011 release. This is an unusual offering: an Oregonmade Pinot Noir sourced from Anderson Valley. Winemaker Thomas Houseman’s winemaking career began in the Anderson Valley, he was used to working with Anderson Valley fruit, and when a few tons of grapes became available, he said, “Why not?” Remember, Anderson Valley is often referred to as “Baja Oregon.” · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Scent of oakimbued black cherries and dark red rose petals. Discreetly concentrated core of dark red berries and cherries with a subtle smoky oak underpinning. Softly textured with restrained tannins and highly charming as well as approachable now. Very good. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 Anne Amie L’iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.62, 210 cases, $75, screw cap. 34% Anne Amie Estate, 55% Twelve Oaks Estate, 11% Hawk’s View Vineyard. Pommard, Wädenswil, 114, 667 and 777. Aged 18 months in 33% new, 67% 1-year old French oak barrels. Willakenzie and Laurelwood soils. Extended bottle aging. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately deep ruby hue in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, spice, wooded forest and slight oak char. Tasty core of black cherry, cranberry and raspberry fruit with hints of spice, chocolate, loamy earth and oak. Light and elegant with a clinging intensity that hangs on through the long finish. Bright acidity with restrained fine-grain dusty tannins. Exhibiting a noticeable dose of oak upon opening but integrated over night when re-tasted the next day. Good now, but will reward even more patience. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2007 Anne Amie Vineyards Pinot Blanc
12.5% alc., 550 cases, $25, released March 2009. Whole clusterpressed, cold fermented, aged in 60% new French oak on the lees for 8 months. Sourced from Helmick Hill Vineyard. · Pale yellow color. Pleasant aromas of pears, white peaches, apples and bananas. Charming marriage of pears and citrus fruits, a hint of oak, and zippy mineral-infused acidity on the refreshing finish. A perfect OTC (Other Than Chardonnay) white wine that performs well as an aperitif or with lighter summer fare. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Annie Amie Vineyards Cuvée A Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., 3,200 cases, $25. An eight vineyard blend from estate vineyards and purchased grapes including clones 115, 777, Pommard and Wädenswil. This wine is a selection of forward and charming barrels of Pinot Noir, blended in a style ready to drink upon release. Aged 10 months in 11.5% new French oak, 21.2% 1-year French oak and 67.3% neutral oak. Once bottled, the wine was aged for 8 months before release in February 2009. Palate of soils include Willakenzie, Jory and Laurelwood. Crafted by winemaker Thomas Houseman and winegrower Jason Tosch. This bottling is the winery’s entry-level Pinot Noir. · Light ruby color. Rather intense scents of cherries, herbs and cream soda. A lighter-weighted black cherry-driven wine with a complimentary hint of vanillin and spice that finishes with a touch of grapefruit. A clean and very decent wine for drinking now. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Cuvée A Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., 3,200 cases, $25, released February 2009. The difference between the Cuvée A and Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley bottlings is the tasting decision with the Cuvée A featuring more red fruit and softer tannins. Primarily sourced from volcanic (Jory) soils. Grape are cold soaked for 4-7 days followed by extended maceration for 28-40 days. Aged on lees in 11.5% new French oak barrels for 10 months and aged 8 months after bottling before release. · This is the winery’s value play Pinot Noir and fits the bill perfectly. Bright scents of red cherries, strawberries and cream soda. Light and soft in the mouth with a red fruit punch flavored core underlain with spice and citrus notes. A perfect back porch sipper. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anne Amie Vineyards Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 3,500 cases, $35, November 2009 release. An 8-vineyard blend of clones 113, 114, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Wädenswil grown on all three of the Willamette Valley’s main soils - Willakenzie, Jory and Laurelwood. A true representation of the entire Willamette Valley. · Moderately light garnet color. Elegantly styled with bright acidity. Vivid raspberry flavors with a touch of minerality and forest floor. More austere than the 2006 vintage of this wine but will compliment food nicely. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anne Amie Prismé Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., pH 3.43, 390 cases, $45, released November 2009. Pommard clone. · Light apricot color in the glass. Interesting aromatic nuances of papaya, peach, coconut and paraffin. Seductive and understated on the palate with pleasing flavors of white peaches, honey, cookie dough, almonds and lychee. Very creamy with bright acidity and polished tannins. An unusual and captivating wine that is full of unexpected charm. Dreamy with shellfish. Very good (+). Reviewed April 9, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Anne Amie Prismé Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., 390 cases, $45. A serious wine made from some of the winery’s finest vineyard blocks. Grapes are gently pressed, liberating the freerun jjuice, but not the color or tannins from the skins. Barrel fermented and aged on the lees in French oak barrels fro 18 months. · Moderate straw color in the glass. Complex aromatic profile that changes constantly in the glass offering scents of banana peel, lemon, lychee, pear, browned banana and roasted nuts. A red wine masquerading as a white wine. Delicious and creamy in the mouth with a Baskin-Robbins array of flavors including cream soda, Asian pears, cooked banana, white peach, honey and nutty butter. Hard to describe and clearly unique with the bright acidity displaying the fruit notes beautifully. You can have plenty of fun with this wine which has picked up considerable interest since tasted last year. Not cheap, but well-worth the tab considering the intense production methods employed and the quality of the wine. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2007 Prismé Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Blanc
14.1% alc., 390 cases, $45, November 2009 release. Named after the word prism which is splitting of white light into its corresponding colors. With this wine the reverse is being done, that is, making a white wine from Pinot Noir. Grapes are gently pressed, liberating free run juice but no inclusion of the color or tannins from the skin. 100% Pinot Noir, Pommard clone, barrel fermented in French oak puncheons (25% new), lees stirred, full MLF, and aged on its lees for 18 months before bottling. · Aromas of pear, lemon, smoke and wax. Flavors of yellow raspberries, green apples, brioche, and slightly toasted oak. Very smooth and creamy on the palate ending with a lengthy impression. Big in stature like a fullblown Chardonnay. A unique wine that forces you to abandon your ideas of traditional Pinot Noir and look for new expressions of the grape. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anne Amie Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 150 cases, $50, November 2009 release. A 9-vineyard blend of clones Pommard 4, Wädenswil, 115 and 667. Grapes are de-stemmed into 2-ton open-top stainless steel fermenters, followed by a 5-day cold soak, inoculated with yeast, racked into 27% new French oak barrels and aged for 11 months. Blended and bottled unfiltered and unfined and bottle aged for 18 months before release. · Admirable that the producers chose to release this wine only after adequate integration of its components. A huge nose of summer stone fruits that really grabs your attention. Luscious cherry and berry core with a compliment of earth and briar flavors. Deft use of oak and supple tannins that caress the fruit nicely. A wine of glass-filling presence. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Anne Amie Vineyards Winemaker’s Selection Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., 3,400 cases, $35, available. · Very aromatic with scents of raspberries, cherries and herbs. The flavors echo the aromas with an added underpinning of earthiness. Smoothly textured with fine-grain tannins. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 L’iris Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 1,200 cases, $75, Released May 2009. A blend of Anne Amie Estate (33%), Boisseau, Louise, Hawk’s View, and Deux Vert vineyards (Yamhill- Carlton and Chehalem Mountain AVAs). Clones 115, 777 and Wädenswil. 5-day cold soak, 10 day fermentation. Free-run juice aged in 62% new French oak for 18 months, bottled unfined and unfiltered, and aged an additional 18 months in bottle. · This is essentially a reserve wine but is not turned up in amplitude. Marvelous aromas of crushed berries, bramble and roasted nuts. A wine of mouth filling richness that coats every nook and cranny, yet is light on its feet. Beguiling flavors of cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruits with hints of vanillin and mocha. The tannins are so fine as to be imperceptible and the texture is Elvis on velvet soft. The powerfully aromatic finish is stunning. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2005 Anne Amie Vineyards Cuvée A Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $20, screw cap. The more fruit-forward barrels of wine are selected to make a reasonably priced wine for everyday drinking. · A very light wine with subtle oak and fruit highlights, especially raspberry. A good summer quaffer served cold. Add pomegranate juice and berries for a cool wine slushy. Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Anne Amie Cuvée A Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., $20. · A light, fruity quaff with a welcoming nose of dark fruits and toasty oak. The perfect back porch sipping Pinot. Nothing to expend your critical facilities on, but when you are thirsty, who wants to? Reviewed April 6, 2006
2004 Anne Amie Willamette Valley Winemaker’s Selection Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., $35. This is a blend of the finest barrels from the complete range of Willamette Valley vineyards. · A subdued nose of red fruits, tea and oak leads to simple and pleasant red fruit flavors. An appealing softness on the palate supplies elegance. Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Anne Amie La Colina Vineyard Dundee Hills Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $50. a “Cru” selection that reflects a particular terroir. Less than 200 cases. Proprietors Dee and George Hillberry farm the La Colina Vineyard located due east of the winery. This is always the richest and most velvety Pinot Noir in the Anne Amie portfolio. · More plush stuffing here. Deep aromas of black cherries and blackberries carry over in the flavors to follow. Very soft and silky in texture. The wine picks up a little oomph with air time and still tasted quite good the next day from the previously opened bottle. Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »
2003 Anne Amie Deux Vert Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc.. This vineyard is owned by Dee and George Hillberry and is located due east of the winery in the Dundee Hills. · This wine is dark ruby in color and is loaded with sweet black cherry, cranberry, dark red raspberry, and licorice aromas and flavors. It is densely packed, powerful and firm, yet the texture is soothing. The finish has substantial tannins which are dry and a touch bitter. Give this one a few years in the cellar to mellow. Reviewed April 6, 2006
2002 Anne Amie Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., $40. · The nose is complex with aromas of plum, exotic woods and violets. Very vibrant and succulent fruit with racy acidity and a suave finish. An harmonious, prime time Pinot from the great 2002 vintage in Oregon. Reviewed April 6, 2006