Frequently Asked Questions
Savor the essence of Oregon's renowned Willamette Valley with the 2023 King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir, a wine that masterfully blends bold character with refined elegance. This biodynamic-certified Pinot Noir bursts with vibrant notes of raspberry, cranberry, and marionberry, complemented by intriguing undertones of leather, orange zest, and caramel. On the palate, its layers of black cherry, cocoa, and juniper berry harmonize with earthy tones of forest floor, cedar, and spice, leading to a smooth, lingering finish. Crafted using sustainable methods, including small-batch fermentation and aging in French oak, this Pinot Noir captures the heart of Oregon's terroir, offering a uniquely authentic and richly satisfying experience. Perfect for pairing with your finest meals or enjoying on its own, King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir is a celebration of both nature and meticulous winemaking.
Process & Profile
The King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir is a quintessential example of the Willamette Valley's celebrated winemaking tradition. Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, this wine reverently captures the region's unique terroir. The winemaking involves small-batch fermentation, with some lots including whole cluster fermentation to enhance complexity. The grapes are cold-soaked for 48 hours, followed by stainless steel open-top fermentation with daily punch downs and pump overs to extract vibrant flavors and aromas. To deepen its character, up to 10% of the juice is bled off using the Saignée method. The wine is then aged for eight months in French oak barrels, achieving perfect harmony between fruit and oak influences.Tasting Notes
This bold Pinot Noir greets the senses with an alluring bouquet of raspberry, cranberry, marionberry, leather, orange zest, rose, and caramel. On the palate, it bursts with dark fruit flavors of black cherry, red plum, and cocoa that intertwine with earthy juniper berries, forest floor, clove, and cedar. The velvety tannins and balanced acidity carry these vibrant flavors through to a lingering, satisfying finish.What Makes It Special
The Inscription Pinot Noir stands out as a classic expression of Oregon's Willamette Valley, a region renowned for producing world-class Pinot Noir. This wine reflects a deep respect for the art of winemaking and the natural bounty of the region. Using techniques like whole cluster fermentation and the Saignée method, the winemakers carefully create a wine with dynamic complexity, bold aromatics, and refined structure. The sustainable practices and attention to detail in each step make it a true testament to Oregon's unparalleled winemaking heritage.How to Enjoy
The King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir's versatility pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its bold fruit and earthy notes complement roasted chicken, mushroom risotto, or grilled salmon. A perfect partner for charcuterie boards, it shines with cured meats, aged cheeses, and spiced nuts. For an elevated experience, serve slightly chilled at around 55¬∞F (13¬∞C) in a burgundy glass to enhance its aromatic complexity and overall enjoyment. Explore the essence of Oregon's Willamette Valley with the King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir—a wine that embodies bold flavors, artisanal craftsmanship, and a legacy of excellence.Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary tasting notes of King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir?
The King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir features an array of flavors, starting with bright, fruity aromatics of raspberry, cranberry, and marionberry, followed by layers of leather, orange zest, rose, and caramel. On the palate, it opens robustly with dark fruit flavors like black cherry, raspberry, and plum, alongside cocoa, juniper berries, forest floor, clove, cedar, spice, and tobacco, culminating in a lingering and satisfying finish.
Where is the vineyard located?
This wine comes from the prestigious Willamette Valley AVA in Oregon, a region known for producing exceptional Pinot Noirs. King Estate itself is located southwest of Eugene and is the largest certified Biodynamic vineyard in North America.
How is the wine produced?
The wine is crafted using small-batch fermentation techniques. Some lots include whole cluster fermentation for added complexity. The clusters undergo a 48-hour cold soak with daily punch downs and pump-overs. Up to 10% of the juice is removed using the Saignée method for better flavor concentration. Fermentation takes place in open-top stainless steel tanks, and the wine is aged for eight months in French oak barrels.
What does "Biodynamic® certified" mean?
Biodynamic certification signifies that the vineyard adheres to strict sustainable and organic farming practices, following principles that promote ecological balance. This approach ensures a minimal environmental footprint while maintaining high-quality grape production.
What food pairs well with this Pinot Noir?
King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and herb-crusted chicken. The wine's notes of dark fruit, earth, and spice make it versatile with a range of rich and savory flavors.
What is the alcohol content and body style of this wine?
This 2023 vintage Pinot Noir has an alcohol content of 13.5% and falls into the medium-bodied category. It is rich yet refined, with a harmonious balance of fruit, spice, and acidity typical of Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs.
How should this wine be served?
Pinot Noir is best served slightly chilled, ideally between 55–60°F (13–16°C). Allow the wine to breathe for a few minutes after opening to fully experience its complexity and aromas. It can also be enjoyed as it warms slightly in the glass.
Is King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir dry or sweet?
King Estate Inscription Pinot Noir is a dry wine, with any sweetness coming from the natural fruity flavors and not residual sugar. The fermentation process converts nearly all sugars in the grape juice into alcohol, resulting in a classic dry Pinot Noir profile.
What makes Oregon Pinot Noir unique?
Oregon Pinot Noir, particularly from the Willamette Valley, is known for its unique expression of terroir. The region's cool climate and volcanic soils contribute to wines that feature a delicate balance of fruit, earthiness, and acidity, distinguishing them from warmer climate Pinot Noirs.
What awards or accolades has King Estate received?
King Estate has an excellent reputation for producing high-quality wines. It has been widely recognized for sustainability and innovation, being the benchmark producer of Pinot Gris in the United States and consistently crafting acclaimed Pinot Noirs like the Inscription.
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