Here are some of the highlights from my last day of wine tasting in the Willamette Valley. I had an exceptionally enjoyable and unforgettable tasting experience at Antica Terra.
My reviews are as follows:
Antica Terra Wines
2021 Botanica Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, red fruit, spice, clean and beautiful nose, hints of leather, vanilla, oak, and floral perfume
Characteristics: Elegant, smooth, refined, and expressive
Pairing: Aged Brie
My Rating: 98 points
2021 Ceras Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, earthy leather, umami, mushroom, hints of dry onion, and background spice
Characteristics: Tannic, layered, brooding, evolving in the glass with age potential
Pairing: Smoky dishes or umami-rich foods such as miso-glazed vegetables or grilled mushrooms
My Rating: 98 points
2021 Antica Terra “Aequorin” Chardonnay
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Citrus, light elegant nose, subtle fruit, refined and restrained aromatics
Characteristics: Feminine, clean, beautifully acidic, sophisticated and poised with a long finish; impressive aging potential (20+ years)
Pairing: Delicate seafood or creamy cheeses
My Rating: 98 points
2019 The Glories No. 3 (CA/OR)
Varietal: Likely Chardonnay or Chardonnay blend (not listed – may need to confirm or research)
Tasting Notes: Clean, crisp, bright citrus
Characteristics: Fresh, vibrant, lets food take the spotlight
Pairing: Smoked sturgeon rillettes or other smoky fish dishes
My Rating: 95 points
NV Champagne Amaury Beaufort “Le Jardin” Brut Nature
Varietal: 50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay (approximate blend based on traditional rosé Champagne styles)
Tasting Notes: Strawberry, citrus, slight brioche, with a light pink/rosé color
Characteristics: Beautifully elegant with small, refined bubbles and lively effervescence
Pairing: Oysters, sushi, or goat cheese crostini
My Rating: 99+ points
2022 von Winning Forster Kirchenstück Riesling (Pfalz)
Varietal: Riesling
Tasting Notes: Light, crisp, mineral-driven with stone notes
Characteristics: Clean, focused, with striking minerality — considered the standout Riesling of the tasting
Pairing: Spicy Thai cuisine or fresh crab
My Rating: 98 points
