Spindrift Cellars
Pinot Blanc 2016
AWARDS & REVIEWS
Silver medal from San Francisco Chronicle
Grapes were grown at Deerhaven Vineyard just south of Philomath and Brigadoon Vineyard west of Junction City. Stainless steel fermentation retains fruit flavors.
Great Northwest Wine Review:
One of the Willamette Valley’s most underrated winemakers and growers, Matt Compton of Spindrift Cellars in Philomath, Ore., recently launched this eponymous brand within his Small World Wine Co. This remarkably expressive example of Pinot Blanc hails from 20-year-old Deer Haven Vineyard in the shadow of Marys Peak – the highest mountain in the Oregon Coast Range. Its nose screams of Little Richard and Tutti Frutti, backed by peach taffy and banana cream pie. What follows are lovely flavors of mango, dried papaya and nectarine framed by a fascinating mouth feel of toasty meringue, remarkable acidity and a nibble of Bosc pear skin that makes for a gorgeous finish. Suggested pairings include grilled halibut, new potatoes or thick slices of home grown heirloom tomatoes.
Rating: Outstanding!
Frugal Wine Gal Review:
Pinot Blanc is a grape that grows very well here. This is no surprise considering Pinot Blanc is a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape! The coolness of the Willamette Valley creates a complex, and delicious Pinot blanc. Many wineries produce this varietal but it isn’t quite as common as say, Pinot Gris. Generally, Pinot blanc has flavors of apples, citrus, and floral notes. Spindrift Cellars 2013 was very consistent with that. On the nose I smelled lemon peel, and knew that this wine was crisp with a nice acidity. This is the type of wine I want to enjoy on the back porch with the sun in my eyes. On the first sip flavors of apricot and crunchy green apples hit my palette. I let it sit for a few minutes though, and it really warmed up. Notes of honey were left on my tongue.
I almost always drink my wines solo, but this wine was dying to paired with something spicy. It paired excellently with my slow cooked Kahlua pork (topped with Siracha of course!) and steamed rice. The best part about this wine was the price. I picked it up at my local Bi-mart while shopping for gardening supplies for $18! Although, the next day trip I have may have to be one to Newport just so I can stop by this urban winery. Cheers to a delicious, and great deal!