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. 13.4% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, rose petals, black tea and forest floor. Light to medium body with exquisite acidity. Racy and vibrant with tart, crunchy fruits. Strawberry, cranberry, nutmeg and earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Beguiling wine that has aged well but lacks the complexity of the very best Thomas Pinot Noirs. Best over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 93 points.
Thomas Pinot Noir makes a brief appearance at Portland-area wine shops soon after release, and is priced around $95 per bottle. The 2022 will be released this Fall.
If you want to put your name on the mailing list you will need track down the winery email address and send John a note. 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.