My tasting at Lavinea Winery was a showcase of precision, place, and purpose. With each pour, Lavinea revealed the nuanced character of Oregon’s most celebrated single vineyards—from the volcanic soils of Temperance Hill to the elegance of Lazy River. The wines were thoughtful and expressive, balancing power with restraint and structure with grace. Lavinea’s commitment to terroir and refinement made this tasting an inspiring journey through the Willamette Valley’s finest expressions.
2014 Lavinea Tualatin Estate Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Bright with cherry and red fruit, slight earth and spice
Tasting Notes: Smooth and clean on the palate
Characteristics: Refined, elegant, balanced, and delicate
Pairing: Duck breast with cherry glaze
My Rating: 96 points
2022 Lavinea Tualatin Estate Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Potpourri, rose petal, aromatic lift
Tasting Notes: Red fruit, blue fruit, clean, round mouthfeel with balance, bright acidity
Characteristics: Bright, fresh, structured, and expressive with high tannin
Pairing: Grilled salmon or mushroom risotto
My Rating: 91 points
2019 Lavinea Nysa Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Masculine red fruit and leather
Tasting Notes: Bright and clean, rich and flavorful on the back palate with tannin and acidity
Characteristics: Bold, site-specific, structured, and age-worthy
Pairing: Roast duck or game meats
My Rating: 95 points
2017 Lavinea Elton Vineyard Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Cranberry, cedar, earth, forest floor
Tasting Notes: Slight sweetness on the front, feminine and lovely red fruit
Characteristics: Elegant, earthy, layered, and delicate
Pairing: Herb-crusted lamb or wild mushroom dishes
My Rating: 96 points
2022 Lavinea Temperance Hill Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Clear red fruit expression
Tasting Notes: Fruit-forward, smooth and elegant
Characteristics: Expressive, poised, and refined
Pairing: Seared duck breast or pork loin
My Rating: 98 points
2016 Lavinea Lazy River Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Slight smoky quality
Tasting Notes: Rich red fruit, vibrant mouthfeel
Characteristics: Deep, concentrated, lively, and earthy
Pairing: Charred meats or mushroom ragù
My Rating: 96 points
2016 Lavinea Lazy River Chardonnay
Varietal: Chardonnay
Nose: Honeysuckle, melon
Tasting Notes: Lemon, lime, key lime pie, slight creaminess
Characteristics: Lush, balanced, textured, and bright
Pairing: Scallops with citrus beurre blanc
My Rating: 99 points
2023 Lavinea Eola Amity Hills Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Cherry, vanilla, oak
Tasting Notes: Delicious and indicative of a great vintage
Characteristics: Smooth, flavorful, and classic
Pairing: Roasted poultry or grilled pork
My Rating: 98 points
2023 Lavinea Eola Amity Hills Chardonnay
Varietal: Chardonnay
Nose: Bright and expressive
Tasting Notes: Clean acidity
Characteristics: Crisp, balanced, and fresh
Pairing: Fresh oysters or light poultry dishes
My Rating: 96 points
