2018 Estate "Rock Blocks" Vineyard
The J. Christopher winery and our estate vineyard, Appassionata, are located in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Elevation in this AVA ranges from 200 to 1,633 feet, and temperatures and rainfall can vary widely. The soil in this AVA is amazing, encompassing everything from sedimentary sea beds to red volcanic soils to glacial sediment. In our own vineyard, Appassionata, we have counted 11 different soil types. With the variations in aspect and soil, we have at least 10 or 12 distinctly different terroir possibilities to work with. It's a really interesting piece of property geologically, which makes it fascinating viticulturally as well.
93 points Wine & Spirits
92 points Wine Enthusiast
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Varietal | Pinot Noir |
| Appellation | Chehalem Mountains |
| Vineyard | Estate (Appasionata) |
| Alcohol | 13.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Cases Produced | 73 |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | Oregon |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
Wine Enthusiast
J. Christopher 92 points
Just two barrels of this limited-production were wine produced. Bright, tart red-berry fruits come with a salty tang, showing excellent focus and length. Tuck this away for another couple of years and it should blossom. Drink from 2022. —P.G.
Wine & Spirits
93 | J. Christopher 2017 Chehalem Mountains Estate Pinot Noir
A tiny production from a south-facing vineyard overlooking the J. Christopher winery, this pinot noir leads with lovely scents of cinnamon, mace and strawberry. The wine is succulent and supple, its spiciness lingering with its dusty tannins, leaving a lasting impression of gentleness. —P.J.C. (56 cases)
