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2023 Founders’ Reserve Pinot Noir
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2023 Founders’ Reserve Pinot Noir

Willamette Valley Vineyards was established in 1983 by a dedicated group of wine enthusiasts committed to producing among the highest quality Pinot Noirs while being good stewards of the land. As a tribute to these individuals, we created this special blend of Pinot Noir.

On the Nose: Bright ruby in color, the wine opens with aromas of rose, black cherry tart, baking spices and toasted oak.

On the Palate: A fruit-forward palate of cranberry and raspberry is accented by dried herbs, ginger, black tea and white pepper. Integrated tannins and balanced acidity frame the medium-bodied wine.

Food Pairings: Enjoy with classic pairings like salmon with wild rice, lamb lollipops, pork tenderloin and mushroom risotto and desserts like chocolate torte.

Accolades:

93 points - James Suckling
"Aromas of black cherries, raspberries, baking spices and forest floor. The palate is polished and vibrant, with fine tannins, fresh red and dark fruit and subtle earthy undertones. Silky and balanced, with a persistent, savory finish. Drink or hold."

92 points - Wine Enthusiast

FSC-Logo Salmon-Safe-Logo LIVE-Certified-Logo Stewardship-of-the-Land

Our experienced winery Ambassadors are here to assist you! Call the winery at (503) 588-9463 and ask to speak with an Ambassador about delaying the shipment of your order, winery pickup, temperature-controlled shipping during extreme heat and other questions you may have about your order.

Willamette Valley Vineyards can be shipped to all U.S. states except IN, ME, MS, NH, NJ, RI, UT and WV; limitations apply to AL, DE, LA and WY.

Wine Specs
Aerial view of Elton vineyards

Elton Vineyard

Eola-Amity Hills AVA

Dick and Betty O’Brien married in 1967 and began building a life together on Betty’s family’s farm. Dick served as a middle school teacher and Betty became the Executive Director of the Santiam Girl Scouts. After a trip to Germany in 1980 where they stayed with a family that grew wine grapes, they returned to Oregon inspired and eager to plant a vineyard of their own. Betty’s parents, Elton and Peggy Ingram, turned over five acres of the farm for them to plant grapevines. They planted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in 1983, the same year that Jim Bernau, Betty’s friend and college classmate, planted our Estate Vineyard in the Salem Hills. Their vineyard grew over the years from five acres to more than 60 acres in the east-southeast slopes of the Eola Hills and was named one of Oregon’s top ten vineyards by Wine Press Northwest. The elevation rises from 250-500 feet, and the vineyard soil is primarily Jory and Nekia. Upon the O’Briens’ retirement in 2007, the vineyard was contracted under a long-term lease to Willamette Valley Vineyards. Retirement allowed Dick and Betty O’Brien to complete a beautiful 1.5-acre garden on the property.

Wine bottles, glasses, and food laid on a table

Want to Save 20% on Your Wine Purchase?

Join Our Wine Club
Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Club membership provides the opportunity to expand your cellar, increase your knowledge of Oregon varietals and receive wonderful benefits from Oregon’s landmark winery including:
• 20% discount on wine bottle purchases
• Complimentary wine tasting, monthly by appointment
• Complimentary winery tour & tasting, by appointment
• Discount admission to events
• 10% discount on select merchandise
• And more!