1994 Rex Hill Reserve Pinot Noir rocks!

While this is not a whimsical write-up of a wine we have in the shop for retail, it is a bit of a plug for our newly launch “Cellar Selection.” We’ve just installed a new area in the shop that acts as a temperature-controlled cabinet where we can offer visitors the opportunity to purchase and experience perfectly aged Oregon Pinot Noir. When all cylinders are firing, it’s an amazing experience. Just like last night at dinner with my good friend, Jay McDonald of Tasting Room in Carlton and EIEIO fame.

We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at a new hot spot in McMinnville called Thistle. The restaurant seats 25, maybe thirty people max, and is a very fun & relaxing experience. No printed menus, the chalkboard tells you what the chef has prepared for the day. A special wine was in order. Under the watchful eye of Lynn Penner-Ash, Rex Hill was put on the map as one of Oregon’s preeminent wineries. This was a wine that I had heard of throughout the years, and finally had the occasion to pop the cork and see what it was all about up close and personal. Number one: amazing color, little if any discoloration. Number two: beautiful floral nose of sweet fruit, spice and a slight hint of mushroom compost. Intoxicating stuff! We not only enjoyed the wine thoroughly, we were also anxious to share it with the staff. What a treat!!

So here’s to Oregon Pinot Noir when a little patience is exercised. Come on in and see what treasures we have tucked into the cellar!