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.
Ruby red in color. Darker than I am accustomed to with Thomas. 13.3% ABV. Gorgeous nose of red fruits, iron, forest floor and flowers. Medium body with exquisite acidity. The concentration and power in notable for a wine that is also elegant and ethereal. Cherry, cranberry, black tea and soil on the palate. The finish on the wine is exceptionally long. There are various reports of a bottling issue with this vintage of Thomas. There was a thin line on the cork but the wine was still breathtaking. Best over the next 5-7 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 was recently released to members of the mailing list. 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 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and Thomas Winery: The Best Pinot Noir You Have Never Heard Of.