Nick Pappas: Wine suggestions in celebration of Oregon Pinot Camp

Written by Nick Pappas
Thursday, 26 June 2008

The state of Oregon has become world renowned for its Pinot Noir. This week, the annual Oregon Pinot Camp (OPC) takes place in the heart of its wine country. Oregon Pinot Camp takes place in and around the North Willamette Valley, about 50 miles southwest of Portland. Fifty Oregon wineries participate with invited retailers, restaurateurs and press from around the country. Winery visits, workshops, tastings and intermingling with all participating winery dignitaries are all on the four-day agenda. Yes, unfortunately it’s a trade event only and a hard invitation to come by even if you are in the business. Each participating winery is allowed to invite only a handful of guests.

Earlier this week I headed out to Portland to meet up with some folks at the Domaine Drouhin winery who are attending the event. That’s as close as I am getting to this year’s OPC. Willamette Valley is abuzz, but I had to rush back Wednesday for the Indy International judging that begins today. Oh well you win some and you win some.

In celebration of this week’s big Oregon event, I’ve listed a few of the states wines that are available locally and worth considering for your next wine occasion.

Cherry Hill Pinot Noir 2005 – $29.99: Classic Oregon style. Produced by Carmel native Mike Sweeney, who spends three months a year on his Oregon property. Also try the bigger styled Papillion 2005 Pinot Noir – $22.99 and Kickin’ Colts 2005 Pinot Noir – $22.99 from Sweeney. All wines are small in production but available here.

Two nice Pinot Noirs from Chehalem in Dundee, Ore., require your attention. Their “INOX” Chardonnay 2006 – $19.99 sees no oak and has great fruit. An old school Burgundian style is what you’ll taste when you try the Chehalem 3 Vineyards Pinot Noir 2006 – $32.99. click here for more of the story