Dec 30, 2022
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St. Innocent Winery
| Owner(s) | Mark Vlossak |
| Web site | www.stinnocentwine.com |
| Link to this site |
St. Innocent is a well-established (1988) and prestigious maker of Pinot Noir with a winery based in Jefferson, Oregon. The winemaker, Mark Vlossek, makes age-worthy, vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs from leased vineyards. Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Blanc round out the white varietals. St. Innocent is also producing small quantities of sparkling wine in the traditional method.
The name, St. Innocent, is in honor of Mark's father, John Innocent Vlossak, who introduced his son to the pleasures of fine wine.
The winemaking emphasizes wine's place at the dinner table: complex and balanced flavors, a backbone of good acidity, and the ability to reveal complex layers with aging. Vlossak uses larger fermenters, 4 to 8-ton vessels, to better control the temperature of his ferments and allow him to tone down the fruitiness that comes with cool fermentations.
In 2018, St. Innocent Winery purchased a 47-acre property in the South Salem Hills. 15 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir were planted in the newly established estate vineyard and a new winery and tasting room were completed in 2019
Yearly wine production is 10,000 cases. The wines are sold on the website and enjoy good retail distribution in some states.
Articles About St. Innocent Winery
2012 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noirs Honorable Mention (9.17 12/26/2012)
2014 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noir Honorable Mention All-Americans (10.2 12/22/2014)
A Brief Fling with St. Innocent Pinot Noir (12.27 2/20/2022)
Lumos Wine Company: Honest Temperance Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir (12.27 2/20/2022)
More 2010 Oregon Pinot Noirs (9.11 9/11/2012)
More Sips of Noiregon Pinot (7.2 9/15/2008)
Noiregon: First Look at 09s and Late Release 08s (8.35 4/11/2011)
Oregon Pinot Noir 2004 (6.15 2/12/2007)
Oregon Pinot Noir Tasting (6.20 3/27/2007)
Pinot Briefs (11.33 11/2/2018)
Pinot Gris: Oregon’s Signature White Wine (7.15 3/26/2009)
Portland Monthly: Oregon’s 50 Best Wines (9.12 10/1/2012)
Rece$$ion Busters (7.15 3/26/2009)
Sips of Recently Tasted Oregon Pinot Noir & More (9.42 5/25/2014)
Small Sips of Oregon Pinot (8.6 11/29/2009)
Small Sips of Oregon Pinot (8.19 8/8/2010)
St. Innocent Winery (8.26 11/24/2010)
Willamette Valley’s 50th Anniversary: A New Look at the Old Guard (10.18 9/29/2015)
Wine Briefs (12.14 2/7/2021)
Reviewed Wines
2017 Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 826 cases, $45. Released December
2021. Pommard, Wädenswil and Dijon 777 clones. Aged 16
months in French oak barrels, 28% new and bottled without
fining.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Deep and delectable
aromas of blackberry, Hoisin sauce and woodland spice.
Discreetly concentrated yet offering an onslaught of vivid black
cherry and blackberry fruit flavors with a compliment of satisfying
spice. Well-managed tannins and bright acidity frame the fruit
harmoniously. Teasing oak is complimentary. The finish is
gloriously persistent. A very special wine at this modest price.
Score: 94.
Reviewed February 21, 2022
ARTICLE »
2017 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 923 cases, $60. Released
October 2021. Pommard and Dijon 115 clones. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 21% new.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. Nicely appointed aromas of red fruits, baking spices and cracker barrel. Very
appealing, reaching new heights over time in the glass. Mid-weight flavors of black cherry and raspberry
framed by gentle tannins and a lively acid spine. Impeccable harmony and a lingering finish.
Score: 94.
Reviewed February 21, 2022
ARTICLE »
2016 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 920 cases, $45.
100% de-stemmed, fermented in stainless steel and French oak fermentors with no SO2 addition. Aged 16
months in French oak barrels, 29% new. Bottled without fining.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass.
Aromas of black cherry, bramble, dried herbs and roasted coffee beans. The blackberry and boysenberry fruit
core is adorned with flavors of grilled beef, spice and smoky oak. The finish is exceptionally persistent. The
oak shadow detracts a bit.
Score: 90.
Reviewed February 21, 2022
ARTICLE »
2016 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 920 cases, $45.
Grapes were 100% de-stemmed, fermented in large stainless steel and French oak fermenters with no SO2.
Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 29% new and bottled without fining.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the
glass. Aromas of bramble, dried herbs, roasted coffee beans and black cherry. Mid-weight flavors of blackberry,
cassis, boysenberry, oak spice and grilled beef. Modest tannins with a boldly-fruited and very long finish. The
core of fruit is delightful but there is too much oak overlay for my taste.
Score: 90.
Reviewed February 21, 2022
ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 1,621 cases, $23. The core of
this wine comes from Vitae Springs Vineyard (56%), with contributions from Freedom Hill (6%), Zenith (28%)
and Momtazi (10%). 2-day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel, aged 12 months in 14% new French oak,
and bottled without fining.
·
The nose is pleasing with aromas of purple grapes, blackberries, cassis and oak.
Mid to full-bodied frame of purple and black fruits. Forward and fruit-driven, with a well-matched backbone of
suave tannins. A solid, everyday wine.
Score: 88.
Reviewed July 6, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 1,045 cases, $35. This high altitude site is located ten miles northwest of Salem.
Sourced from three blocks planted in 1984 (East Block), 1995 (Pump Home Block) and 2004 (“R”
Block). Yield 1.4 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in stainless steel bins, aged in 23%
new French oak for 16 months and bottled without fining.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass.
Significantly more aromatic and expressive the next day from a previously opened and re-corked
bottle. Aromas of black cherries, dried herbs, and subtle oak. Crisp, bright and easy going with light to mid
weight flavors of cherries and raspberries with some finishing power and length. The tannins are modest and
the backing acidity is bright. Needs time to integrate the oak and become fully engaged. Decant if you must
open now.
Score: 91.
Reviewed July 6, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Winery Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.71, 948 cases, $42. This vineyard is
planted in ancient marine sediment. Located very far west at the base of
the Coast Range of mountains, it is warmer in the day and more quickly
cooled in the evening than most Oregon sites. The resulting wine is said
to have dense minerality, well-developed tannins and good acidity. The
original vines died of phylloxera in 2003 and were replanted. The new
plantings produce more balanced fruit that is less prone to disease. Aged
16 months in French oak barrels, 28% new.
·
Moderately dark reddish
purple color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of black cherry and sousbois.
A discreetly concentrated core of fresh black cherry fruit is
embellished with notes of iron, earth and blackberry. The entry demands
attention, as does the finish that exhibits uncommon length. Plush and
dreamy on the palate, this young wine has a rigorous backbone of fine-grain tannin that should be matched
with a good steak if you drink it now.
Score: 90.
Reviewed September 29, 2015
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
ARTICLE »
2010 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., 583 cases, $28.
From blocks planted in 1984 and 1995. Yields 1.5 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, 2-day cold
soak, aged 16 months in 32% new French oak, bottled unfined.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color
in the glass. Aromas of black cherries and toasty oak. Elegant, yet offering some richness of red
fruit flavor underpinned with notes of tea and tarry oak. Round and polished, soft in the mouth,
finishing with a dark cherry bonus. Becomes more expressive over time in the glass indicating
decanting is beneficial at this early stage. Good (+).
Reviewed September 12, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 St. Innocent Zenith Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 704 cases, $30.
Clones 777 and 667 from older blocks and young vine Pommard. Yields 1.4 tons per acre. 100%
de-stemmed, 2-day cold soak, aged 16 months in 40% new French oak, bottled without fining.
·
Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy nose initially, opening slowly over time to reveal
inviting aromas of black plum, blackberry and subtle oak. Middleweight flavors of dark red and black
berries, backed by well-proportioned firm tannins, finishing with a pleasing note of raspberries. Very
soft in the mouth with seamless balance. Will benefit from further bottle age. Very Good.
Reviewed September 12, 2012
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
ARTICLE »
2009 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 2,640 cases, $20. 54% Vitae
Springs Vineyard with fruit from young vines elsewhere (22% Zenith Vineyard and 24% Momtazi Vineyard). 2-
day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel tanks, aged 12 months in 15% new French oak barrels. Unfined
and unfiltered. Winemaker Mark Vlossak.
·
Moderately colored in the glass. Dark red fruit aromas are buried in
scents of wood shed, oak and brier with a whiff of alcohol evident. Red-fruited on the modest palate with a
savory bent and oak in the background. Very soft in the mouth with adequate tannic support. Decent.
Reviewed April 11, 2011
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
13.5% alc., 605 cases, $20.
Planted in 1993. Fermented 31% in barrel and 69% in tank. Aged 8 months sur lies.
·
Light straw color in the
glass. Delicate aromas of lemon curd and pastry cream. Demure flavors of citrus, peach, green apple and a
hint of oak. Oregon does well with this grape and this is a fine example. Good.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Vitae Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.0% alc., 752 cases, $20. Vitae Springs was established in 1986 and is
located 5 miles south of Salem. Tank fermented, aged 8 months sur lie, and
lightly filtered. No oak.
·
Light straw color. Aromas of white orchard fruits and a
hint of pineapple. The flavors echo the aromas with added notes of spice and
lychee. Welcoming richness and persistence. One of Oregon’s best examples
of this variety. Very good.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $27.
·
Moderate reddish-purple
hue in the glass. Develops slowly in the glass revealing charming aromas of raspberries and cherries with
hints of smoky oak and spice. Vivid cranberry and cherry fruit flavors that are a bit tart due to hi-tone acidity.
On the delicate side, with supple tannins, making it easy to drink. Good.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 656 cases, $30. The vineyard is ten
miles northwest of Salem, OR. Sourced from blocks planted in 1984
and 1995 on thin basalt soil. Yields 1.6 tons/acre.
·
The nose draws you
in with a perfume of dark berry fruits, rose petals and subtle oak char.
Soft and sensual in the mouth with layers of flavor including tastes of red and
purple fruits, cola, tar, brown spice, root beer and herbs. A thread of oak runs
thru. Elegantly styled and alluring, but needs time to open in the glass. The
label advises decanting now and I agree completely. An excellent cellar
candidate that will reward patience. Very good.
Reviewed August 7, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 656 cases, $32. The vineyard is 10 miles northwest of Salem.
Sourced from blocks planted in 1984 and 1995. Yields 1.6 tons per acre.
·
The
nose draws you in with a perfume of dark berry fruits, rose petals and oak char.
Soft and sensual in the mouth with layers of flavor including tastes of dark
berries, black cherries, plum, cola, tar, brown spice, root beer and herbs. A
thread of oak runs through which needs time to integrate. Underlain with bright
acidity. Elegantly styled and alluring, but needs time to open in the glass. The
label advises decanting now and I agree completely. An excellent cellar
candidate that will reward patience. Very good.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
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
ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent White Rose Vineyard Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $60.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color. Shy
but lovely perfume of fresh pie cherries with a sniff of smoky oak. An
immensely satisfying wine offering delicious black cherry and berry
flavors with a hint of citrus peel in the background. Amazing persistence
of cherry essence on the finish. Silky in the mouth with balanced supple
tannins. This wine really grabs your attention. You can drink it now but it will get
even better over time.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
ARTICLE »
2007 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $22.
·
Very enticing nose of cherry and berry fruits, nicely
spiced with a wooded forest note as well. On the palate the melange
of strawberries, raspberries and cranberries is light in weight but tasty
augmented by a tinge of oak, herbs and spice. An ethereal wine with
a velvety texture and a dry, refreshing finish. Always a dependable
and excellent value wine from St. Innocent. Decent (+)
Reviewed November 29, 2009
ARTICLE »
2007 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 2,043 cases, $25. A blend of grapes sourced from Vitae
Springs, Freedom Hill, and Zenith vineyards cropped at 1.2 to 2.7
tons per acre. Young plantings are blended with a consistent Pinot Noir
base wine from both old and new blocks of the Vitae Springs Vineyard.
In Oregon and through the St, Innocent tasting room, this cuvée is
entirely from Vitae Springs Vineyard but the cuvée sold in other United States markets
contains 80% of Vitae Springs Vineyard with some Zenith Vineyard and Freedom Hill
added in. Aged 13 months in 20% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. Winemaker
Mark Vlossak is at the top of his game.
·
The wine’s aromatics build in the glass and
really erupt over time, always a sign of a superior wine. The nose offers scents of fresh cherries and
raspberries kissed by oak and spice. Cherry driven flavors with a floral and citric accent are offered in an
elegant style that is light and harmonious. The winemaking pedigree shows through in this very good wine that
will hold on and drink well for another 4 or 5 years. At $252 a case, this is a perfect choice for recession
slumdogs.
Reviewed March 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 St. Innocent Vitae Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.5% alc., 783 cases, $17. Tall Alsatian bottle. Vineyard established in 1986. Located 5 miles south of Salem in Jory clay soil average 400 feet elevation. Tank fermented, 8 months on lees, lightly filtered.
·
Moderately yellow color. Terrific scent of yellow fruits, apple tart and lemon curd. Very tasty wine crafted in the Alsatian style. Ripe, intense flavors of pears, cooked apples and roasted hazelnuts with a subtle petrol note. The texture is creamy and everything is in perfect harmony. This impressive wine shows what Oregon Pinot Gris can achieve. The best Pinot Gris I have ever had from Oregon.
Reviewed March 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 St. Innocent Momtazi Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 413 cases, $40. The
Momtazi Vineyard is located in the McMinnville AVA and is farmed biodynamically. This wine is sourced from three blocks planted in 1999 and 2004. Aged 16 months in 35% new oak. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
The nose
sports bright black cherries, lavender and a hint of alcohol. Dense and dark fruit core with grilled meat and tar,
and substantial tannins. A bit disjointed now and reserved, this wine deserves a few years in the cellar but it
will always show plenty of alcohol.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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
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
ARTICLE »
2000 St. Innocent Cremant Willamette Valley Sparkling Wine
12.9% alc..
·
Slightly sweet, but a
very decent, if simple, drink.
Reviewed March 27, 2007
ARTICLE »
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1998 St. Innocent Seven Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc..
·
A surprisingly youthful wine with too much tannin on the back
end for me. Some tasters felt it could improve and soften with additional aging.
Certainly built to age, but I think it will always retain a certain edginess. There was
plenty of high-quality cherry and raspberry fruit on the palate.
Reviewed March 27, 2007
ARTICLE »
2017 Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 826 cases, $45. Released December 2021. Pommard, Wädenswil and Dijon 777 clones. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 28% new and bottled without fining. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Deep and delectable aromas of blackberry, Hoisin sauce and woodland spice. Discreetly concentrated yet offering an onslaught of vivid black cherry and blackberry fruit flavors with a compliment of satisfying spice. Well-managed tannins and bright acidity frame the fruit harmoniously. Teasing oak is complimentary. The finish is gloriously persistent. A very special wine at this modest price. Score: 94. Reviewed February 21, 2022 ARTICLE »
2017 St. Innocent Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 923 cases, $60. Released October 2021. Pommard and Dijon 115 clones. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 21% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nicely appointed aromas of red fruits, baking spices and cracker barrel. Very appealing, reaching new heights over time in the glass. Mid-weight flavors of black cherry and raspberry framed by gentle tannins and a lively acid spine. Impeccable harmony and a lingering finish. Score: 94. Reviewed February 21, 2022 ARTICLE »
2016 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 920 cases, $45. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in stainless steel and French oak fermentors with no SO2 addition. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 29% new. Bottled without fining. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, bramble, dried herbs and roasted coffee beans. The blackberry and boysenberry fruit core is adorned with flavors of grilled beef, spice and smoky oak. The finish is exceptionally persistent. The oak shadow detracts a bit. Score: 90. Reviewed February 21, 2022 ARTICLE »
2016 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 920 cases, $45. Grapes were 100% de-stemmed, fermented in large stainless steel and French oak fermenters with no SO2. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 29% new and bottled without fining. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of bramble, dried herbs, roasted coffee beans and black cherry. Mid-weight flavors of blackberry, cassis, boysenberry, oak spice and grilled beef. Modest tannins with a boldly-fruited and very long finish. The core of fruit is delightful but there is too much oak overlay for my taste. Score: 90. Reviewed February 21, 2022 ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 1,621 cases, $23. The core of this wine comes from Vitae Springs Vineyard (56%), with contributions from Freedom Hill (6%), Zenith (28%) and Momtazi (10%). 2-day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel, aged 12 months in 14% new French oak, and bottled without fining. · The nose is pleasing with aromas of purple grapes, blackberries, cassis and oak. Mid to full-bodied frame of purple and black fruits. Forward and fruit-driven, with a well-matched backbone of suave tannins. A solid, everyday wine. Score: 88. Reviewed July 6, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 1,045 cases, $35. This high altitude site is located ten miles northwest of Salem. Sourced from three blocks planted in 1984 (East Block), 1995 (Pump Home Block) and 2004 (“R” Block). Yield 1.4 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in stainless steel bins, aged in 23% new French oak for 16 months and bottled without fining. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Significantly more aromatic and expressive the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Aromas of black cherries, dried herbs, and subtle oak. Crisp, bright and easy going with light to mid weight flavors of cherries and raspberries with some finishing power and length. The tannins are modest and the backing acidity is bright. Needs time to integrate the oak and become fully engaged. Decant if you must open now. Score: 91. Reviewed July 6, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 St. Innocent Winery Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.71, 948 cases, $42. This vineyard is planted in ancient marine sediment. Located very far west at the base of the Coast Range of mountains, it is warmer in the day and more quickly cooled in the evening than most Oregon sites. The resulting wine is said to have dense minerality, well-developed tannins and good acidity. The original vines died of phylloxera in 2003 and were replanted. The new plantings produce more balanced fruit that is less prone to disease. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 28% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of black cherry and sousbois. A discreetly concentrated core of fresh black cherry fruit is embellished with notes of iron, earth and blackberry. The entry demands attention, as does the finish that exhibits uncommon length. Plush and dreamy on the palate, this young wine has a rigorous backbone of fine-grain tannin that should be matched with a good steak if you drink it now. Score: 90. Reviewed September 29, 2015 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 ARTICLE »
2010 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., 583 cases, $28. From blocks planted in 1984 and 1995. Yields 1.5 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, 2-day cold soak, aged 16 months in 32% new French oak, bottled unfined. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries and toasty oak. Elegant, yet offering some richness of red fruit flavor underpinned with notes of tea and tarry oak. Round and polished, soft in the mouth, finishing with a dark cherry bonus. Becomes more expressive over time in the glass indicating decanting is beneficial at this early stage. Good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 St. Innocent Zenith Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 704 cases, $30. Clones 777 and 667 from older blocks and young vine Pommard. Yields 1.4 tons per acre. 100% de-stemmed, 2-day cold soak, aged 16 months in 40% new French oak, bottled without fining. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy nose initially, opening slowly over time to reveal inviting aromas of black plum, blackberry and subtle oak. Middleweight flavors of dark red and black berries, backed by well-proportioned firm tannins, finishing with a pleasing note of raspberries. Very soft in the mouth with seamless balance. Will benefit from further bottle age. Very Good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 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 ARTICLE »
2009 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 2,640 cases, $20. 54% Vitae Springs Vineyard with fruit from young vines elsewhere (22% Zenith Vineyard and 24% Momtazi Vineyard). 2- day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel tanks, aged 12 months in 15% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. Winemaker Mark Vlossak. · Moderately colored in the glass. Dark red fruit aromas are buried in scents of wood shed, oak and brier with a whiff of alcohol evident. Red-fruited on the modest palate with a savory bent and oak in the background. Very soft in the mouth with adequate tannic support. Decent. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
13.5% alc., 605 cases, $20. Planted in 1993. Fermented 31% in barrel and 69% in tank. Aged 8 months sur lies. · Light straw color in the glass. Delicate aromas of lemon curd and pastry cream. Demure flavors of citrus, peach, green apple and a hint of oak. Oregon does well with this grape and this is a fine example. Good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Vitae Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.0% alc., 752 cases, $20. Vitae Springs was established in 1986 and is located 5 miles south of Salem. Tank fermented, aged 8 months sur lie, and lightly filtered. No oak. · Light straw color. Aromas of white orchard fruits and a hint of pineapple. The flavors echo the aromas with added notes of spice and lychee. Welcoming richness and persistence. One of Oregon’s best examples of this variety. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $27. · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Develops slowly in the glass revealing charming aromas of raspberries and cherries with hints of smoky oak and spice. Vivid cranberry and cherry fruit flavors that are a bit tart due to hi-tone acidity. On the delicate side, with supple tannins, making it easy to drink. Good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 656 cases, $30. The vineyard is ten miles northwest of Salem, OR. Sourced from blocks planted in 1984 and 1995 on thin basalt soil. Yields 1.6 tons/acre. · The nose draws you in with a perfume of dark berry fruits, rose petals and subtle oak char. Soft and sensual in the mouth with layers of flavor including tastes of red and purple fruits, cola, tar, brown spice, root beer and herbs. A thread of oak runs thru. Elegantly styled and alluring, but needs time to open in the glass. The label advises decanting now and I agree completely. An excellent cellar candidate that will reward patience. Very good. Reviewed August 7, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 656 cases, $32. The vineyard is 10 miles northwest of Salem. Sourced from blocks planted in 1984 and 1995. Yields 1.6 tons per acre. · The nose draws you in with a perfume of dark berry fruits, rose petals and oak char. Soft and sensual in the mouth with layers of flavor including tastes of dark berries, black cherries, plum, cola, tar, brown spice, root beer and herbs. A thread of oak runs through which needs time to integrate. Underlain with bright acidity. Elegantly styled and alluring, but needs time to open in the glass. The label advises decanting now and I agree completely. An excellent cellar candidate that will reward patience. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 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 ARTICLE »
2008 St. Innocent White Rose Vineyard Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $60. · Moderate reddish-purple color. Shy but lovely perfume of fresh pie cherries with a sniff of smoky oak. An immensely satisfying wine offering delicious black cherry and berry flavors with a hint of citrus peel in the background. Amazing persistence of cherry essence on the finish. Silky in the mouth with balanced supple tannins. This wine really grabs your attention. You can drink it now but it will get even better over time. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $22. · Very enticing nose of cherry and berry fruits, nicely spiced with a wooded forest note as well. On the palate the melange of strawberries, raspberries and cranberries is light in weight but tasty augmented by a tinge of oak, herbs and spice. An ethereal wine with a velvety texture and a dry, refreshing finish. Always a dependable and excellent value wine from St. Innocent. Decent (+) Reviewed November 29, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 St. Innocent Villages Cuvée Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 2,043 cases, $25. A blend of grapes sourced from Vitae Springs, Freedom Hill, and Zenith vineyards cropped at 1.2 to 2.7 tons per acre. Young plantings are blended with a consistent Pinot Noir base wine from both old and new blocks of the Vitae Springs Vineyard. In Oregon and through the St, Innocent tasting room, this cuvée is entirely from Vitae Springs Vineyard but the cuvée sold in other United States markets contains 80% of Vitae Springs Vineyard with some Zenith Vineyard and Freedom Hill added in. Aged 13 months in 20% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. Winemaker Mark Vlossak is at the top of his game. · The wine’s aromatics build in the glass and really erupt over time, always a sign of a superior wine. The nose offers scents of fresh cherries and raspberries kissed by oak and spice. Cherry driven flavors with a floral and citric accent are offered in an elegant style that is light and harmonious. The winemaking pedigree shows through in this very good wine that will hold on and drink well for another 4 or 5 years. At $252 a case, this is a perfect choice for recession slumdogs. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 St. Innocent Vitae Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.5% alc., 783 cases, $17. Tall Alsatian bottle. Vineyard established in 1986. Located 5 miles south of Salem in Jory clay soil average 400 feet elevation. Tank fermented, 8 months on lees, lightly filtered. · Moderately yellow color. Terrific scent of yellow fruits, apple tart and lemon curd. Very tasty wine crafted in the Alsatian style. Ripe, intense flavors of pears, cooked apples and roasted hazelnuts with a subtle petrol note. The texture is creamy and everything is in perfect harmony. This impressive wine shows what Oregon Pinot Gris can achieve. The best Pinot Gris I have ever had from Oregon. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 St. Innocent Momtazi Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 413 cases, $40. The Momtazi Vineyard is located in the McMinnville AVA and is farmed biodynamically. This wine is sourced from three blocks planted in 1999 and 2004. Aged 16 months in 35% new oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · The nose sports bright black cherries, lavender and a hint of alcohol. Dense and dark fruit core with grilled meat and tar, and substantial tannins. A bit disjointed now and reserved, this wine deserves a few years in the cellar but it will always show plenty of alcohol. Reviewed September 15, 2008 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 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 ARTICLE »
2000 St. Innocent Cremant Willamette Valley Sparkling Wine
12.9% alc.. · Slightly sweet, but a very decent, if simple, drink. Reviewed March 27, 2007 ARTICLE »
1998 St. Innocent Seven Springs Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc.. · A surprisingly youthful wine with too much tannin on the back end for me. Some tasters felt it could improve and soften with additional aging. Certainly built to age, but I think it will always retain a certain edginess. There was plenty of high-quality cherry and raspberry fruit on the palate. Reviewed March 27, 2007 ARTICLE »