Date: 02/2025
My visit to Eyrie Vineyards was a profound encounter with Oregon winemaking history. As the birthplace of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley, Eyrie exudes legacy and quiet brilliance. Each wine offered a pure, unfiltered expression of its terroir — elegant, balanced, and gracefully restrained. The tasting was a reminder that true greatness often whispers rather than shouts.
2021 Chardonnay The Eyrie
Varietal: Chardonnay
Nose: Lovely citrus, lemon, vanilla, mineral, saline
Tasting Notes: Pineapple, tropical fruit, citrus, mineral
Characteristics: Smooth, creamy, light-bodied, easy drinking; 11 months in neutral oak
Pairing: Grilled halibut, lemon herb roast chicken, or Dungeness crab
My Rating: 93
2021 Pinot Noir The Eyrie
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Tart red fruit, dark fruit, mineral
Tasting Notes: Cherry, vanilla
Characteristics: Smooth, layered
Pairing: Mushroom risotto, seared duck breast, or lentil stew
My Rating: 91
2021 Pinot Noir Sisters
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Red fruit, raspberry, strawberry
Tasting Notes: Cranberry, pomegranate, cherry, vanilla, leather
Characteristics: Layered, balanced
Pairing: Herb-crusted lamb chops, roasted beet salad, or grilled salmon
My Rating: 95
2021 Oregon Pinot Meunier
Varietal: Pinot Meunier
Nose: Dark cherry, vanilla, tobacco
Tasting Notes: Cranberry, leather, rummy notes, slight dark fruit
Characteristics: Acidic, age-worthy
Pairing: Charcuterie board, roasted pork loin, or mushroom tart
My Rating: 93
