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. 13.2% ABV. Gorgeous nose of red fruits, cloves, baking spices and flowers. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Light, lithe and exceedingly elegant. Cherry, cranberry, Christmas spices and earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Just a stunning Pinot Noir from John Thomas that embodies class and finesse. I’ll check in on another bottle in 2028.
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. The 2024 will be released in the Fall of 2026.
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 recently had a chance to visit John Thomas and wrote about it in A Visit with John Thomas at Thomas Winery.