Colene Clemens Vineyards "Dopp Creek" Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir 2022

Winemaking

Colene Clemens Vineyards is a small, family-owned producer in Oregon's Willamette Valley dedicated to crafting elegant, terroir-driven Pinot Noir. The winemakers here prioritize restraint and balance—allowing the vineyard's character to speak rather than imposing heavy oak or extraction. Their approach emphasizes the distinctive minerality and finesse that the Chehalem Mountains appellation is known for.

Tasting Notes

This Pinot Noir opens with inviting aromatics of red cherry and strawberry, layered with subtle earthy notes that anchor the wine's complexity. On the palate, silky tannins and bright acidity create an elegant frame for vibrant red fruit flavors, with whispers of spice and forest floor adding depth and intrigue. The finish is clean and persistent, concluding with a graceful mineral quality that lingers pleasantly on the glass.

Producer

Colene Clemens operates as a boutique vineyard and winery focused on small-batch production that reflects the nuances of their Chehalem Mountains site. The estate takes a thoughtful approach to both viticulture and winemaking, avoiding over-manipulation to preserve the natural character and balance of their fruit.

Terroir

The Chehalem Mountains appellation sits at the northern edge of Oregon's Willamette Valley, where volcanic soils and a warming climate create ideal conditions for Pinot Noir. This particular bottling captures the region's signature mineral precision—the result of ancient basalt flows and cool night temperatures that encourage slow ripening and elegant acidity. The elevation and aspect of Chehalem's vineyard sites are especially favorable for developing the refined red fruit character and silky texture this wine displays.

Food Pairings

Serve this wine alongside pan-seared duck breast with cherry gastrique, where the wine's bright acidity and red fruit notes complement the rich, savory duck beautifully. It's equally at home with a casual mushroom and herb-crusted chicken breast, or with aged Gruyère and cured meats on a charcuterie board. The mineral finish also makes it a natural match for herb-forward preparations and lighter game dishes.