One of the most collectible Pinot Noirs made in all of Oregon is from a winery you’ve probably never heard of: Thomas Winery. Located in Carlton, Oregon, winemaker John Thomas has been releasing small amounts of wine from the Thomas Vineyard since 1988. I don’t recall ever seeing ratings from the Wine Advocate or the Wine Spectator, and I don’t think Thomas has ever hosted a public event. The winery has achieved cult like status among wine collectors.
Light red in color. Almost translucent. 13.9% ABV. Breathtaking nose of red fruits, baking spices, earth and flowers. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Concentration and structure that belies the color of the wine and eleven years of bottle age. Cherries, strawberries, black tea and earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. A great bottle of Thomas that is aging brilliantly. I only wish I had more. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 96 points.
Thomas Pinot Noir makes a brief appearance at Portland-area shops soon after release, and is priced around $75 per bottle. The 2018 will be released to members of the mailing list in early October. If you want to put your name on the mailing list you will need track down the winery address and send John a letter. I’ve had the opportunity to taste bottles going back to the late 90’s, and think the wine shows best 7-10 years past the vintage date.
A visit to Thomas is on my winery bucket list.
I’ve blogged about Thomas previously in The 2018 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and Thomas Winery: The Best Pinot Noir You Have Never Heard Of.
Tom – great notes as always. How do I get on the list or contact John for the 2018s? Thank you.
Send me an email please.