When I started getting into this crazy wine business my curiosity had me reading all sorts of books on the subject. Seeing tiny photos of all these beautiful wine regions were intriguing but they had always seemed so far away. When you actually see the vineyards in person it can be a little overwhelming. In a good way of course.

Our next stop after ADEA was WillaKenzie Estate. Simply gorgeous estate with a beautiful tasting room surrounded by a patio with bright flowers. We arrived a little before 10:30am and were greeted outside by the tasting room guy. Can’t remember his name but he was very nice and informative about all the wines and the estate. This Estate is northeast of the small town of Yamhill in the Yamhill-Carlton District where the fast-draining marine sediments are some of the oldest soils in the valley. A perfect place for growing pinot noir.

There were three wines that stood out for me here:

• 2008 Pinot Gris
• 2006 Gamay Noir
• 2006 Kiana Pinot Noir

2008 Pinot Gris

This white was floral, complex and fruity. Displaying a lightly perfumed nose of white flowers and apricots with a fresh fruity core of honey dew melon, apples and peach on the palate. It was a surprise to taste such a complex white. This pinot gris was light on its feet but had depth of flavor that introduced something new with every sip. They also do a late harvest pinot gris.

2006 Gamay Noir

It makes total sense to have this grape variety here. I was probably a little too excited when he pulled this one out next. It was raspberry fruit on the palate followed by a little spice on the finish. Really nice wine. A big fan here.

2006 Kiana Pinot Noir

Let me get this out there first. All 5 pinot I tasted were excellent. What I found intriguing about the Kiana was an extra subtle layer of earthy complexity that I usually like in pinot. A little spice, clove and mint to go with the fruit. A special single vineyard wine from a producer I’ll never forget.