Date: 02/2025
My tasting at Hundred Suns was an exploration of texture, energy, and fearless winemaking. Each bottle offered a distinctive voice—born from thoughtful farming, wild fermentations, and a deep commitment to transparency. These were wines that pulsed with life: vivid Pinot Noirs, bold Syrahs, and captivating expressions of Oregon terroir. The experience was vibrant, unconventional, and undeniably compelling—showcasing craftsmanship with curiosity at its core.
2023 “Marianas” Chardonnay – Willamette Valley AVA
Varietal: Chardonnay
Nose: Creamy citrus, lemon, and mineral notes
Tasting Notes: Smooth, rich, creamy, oaky, citrus, lemon, dry fruit
Characteristics: Refined, balanced, and textural with nice weight
Pairing: Fresh seafood or lemon roast chicken
My Rating: 96 points
2023 “Old Eight Cut” Pinot Noir – Willamette Valley
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Floral bouquet with hints of lavender
Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, red fruit, soft blue fruit notes, sweet and fragrant
Characteristics: Drinkable now, light on tannins, expressive, feminine
Pairing: Duck breast or mushroom risotto
My Rating: 96 points
2023 Sequitur Vineyard Pinot Noir – Tualatin Hills AVA / Ribbon Ridge AVA
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Beautiful red fruit and floral complexity
Tasting Notes: Rich, concentrated, acidic, cassis, leather, cedar
Characteristics: Masculine, structured, slightly heavier
Pairing: Grilled lamb or aged gouda
My Rating: 96 points
2022 Le Mani Vineyard Syrah – The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA
Varietal: 100% Syrah
Nose: Earthy with herbal notes
Tasting Notes: Inky, dark, barrel + terra cotta, bitter olive tapenade, vegetal, savory, herbal
Characteristics: Complex but not my style; rustic and wild
Pairing: Charred meats or olive tapenade
My Rating: 89 points
2023 Carson Phillips Vineyard Pinot Noir – Dundee Hills
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Gorgeous – cherry, vanilla, oak, cigar box
Tasting Notes: Red fruit, juicy, rich yet elegant
Characteristics: Approachable for new drinkers, satisfying for connoisseurs
Pairing: Roasted poultry or grilled salmon
My Rating: 97 points
Lone Feather Vineyard Pinot Noir – McMinnville AVA
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Blue fruit with volcanic minerality
Tasting Notes: High acid, rich, blue fruit, tart, mid-body, volcanic soil character
Characteristics: Concentrated and structured
Pairing: Grilled lamb chops or mushroom-based dishes
My Rating: 95 points
2023 Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Deep and earthy with blue and red fruits
Tasting Notes: Blue fruit, red fruit, dense, deep, concentrated
Characteristics: Slightly more masculine, non-filtered, rocky volcanic soils
Pairing: Braised short ribs or grilled portobello
My Rating: 95 points
2023 Bednarik Vineyard Pinot Noir – Tualatin Hills AVA
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Spicy, peppery
Tasting Notes: Juicy, acidic, smooth, balanced
Characteristics: Coolest northwest site, restrained and elegant
Pairing: Spicy soppressata pizza
My Rating: 96 points
