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. 13.6% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, baking spices and flowers. Medium body with perfect acidity. Loaded with crunchy, tangy fruits. Cherry, cranberry, pomegranate and minerals on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Bigger and bolder than my most recent bottles of 2012 and 2013. Gorgeous Pinot Noir that is aging brilliantly.
My rating: 95 points.
Thomas Pinot Noir makes a brief appearance at Portland-area wine shops soon after release, and is priced around $95 per bottle. Thomas did not produce a wine in 2020 due to the fires in the Willamette Valley. The 2021 was recently released.
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 Thomas Winery: The Best Pinot Noir You Have Never Heard Of.