John Grochau was first introduced to wine and the winemaking landscape in his early 20’s, while racing bicycles for a French team in the Loire Valley.
After more than decade selling wine in some of Portland’s finest restaurants Grochau plunged into winemaking. He spent a year in Sonoma before returning to Oregon to work at Erath Winery, and then worked alongside winemaker Doug Tunnel at Brick House Vineyards for four years. His first vintage as owner and winemaker at Grochau Cellars was 2002.
Anderson Family Vineyard was planted in 1992 and is located Northern Dundee Hills of the Willamette Valley.
Ruby red in color. 13.8% ABV. Terrific nose of red fruits, black tea, rose petals and forest floor. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Expressive and fruit forward. Boysenberry, raspberry, spice and earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Tremendous Pinot Noir from a well established vineyard. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 93 points.
The 2016 Anderson Family Vineyard Pinot Noir is available for $38 at the winery and retail. John Grochau has a pretty good story and the wine is compelling. I look forward to following the winery in the years to come.