Best Values, Best Winemakers: Goff and Violin
Today it's two of the best winemakers–and nicest guys–in the Willamette Valley and two of the best values in Willamette Valley Pinot.
Steve Goff can do no wrong. If you don't immediately recognize his name, he's the guy behind Colene Clemens' brilliant Pinots who makes tiny batches under his personal label. Will Hamilton's Violin is one of the best things to happen to the Valley in years. We can't say enough good things about these guys and their wines. We recommend both without exception or reservation.
$26.95 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case order ($29.95 regular)
The combination of vineyards alone gives you a clear idea of the exceptional value of Goff's Willamette Valley Pinot: half Weber, half Shea, vineyards which command 2-3 times this price when they're on the label. And then you pop the cork and experience a beautiful Pinot noir, with a layered, wonderfully composed feel. The fruit intensity of 2018 shines, as does Steve Goff's gift for coaxing depth, texture, and elegance from every Pinot noir he makes.
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$26.95 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case order ($29.95 regular)
Violin was everyone's favorite Willamette Valley Pinot deal last year and thus the conversation must begin with how the 2019 compares. 1) Extremely well. 2) It's the more sophisticated of the two. 3) It smells amazing, more aromatically exciting than the '18. 4) We love it every bit as much–in a different way–and we think you will too.
We tried to outdo winemaker Will's tasting notes and gave up after two days: exuberantly perfumed, the 2019 has exotic and fresh aromatic expression with an edginess that broadens the landscape. A generous spiced component compliments the array of fruits, providing sweetness and depth. The entry showcases the textural roundness of the vintage, which carries the wine toward a refreshing and crisp finish with trademark savoriness and beautiful integration of tannin. As heavy as we like in Pinot noir, we look forward to the slow concentration and complexity that bottle age will reveal. 13% alcohol.