Ken Wright Cellars Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020

Winery Background and History

Ken Wright Cellars, established in 1994 in Carlton, Oregon, is renowned for its commitment to producing single-vineyard Pinot Noir wines that express the unique terroir of each site. Ken Wright, the founder and winemaker, has been instrumental in elevating Oregon’s Willamette Valley to international acclaim, focusing on meticulous vineyard selection and sustainable farming practices. The winery’s philosophy centers on minimal intervention, allowing the character of each vineyard to shine through in the wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Ken Wright, a pioneer in Oregon’s wine industry, brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of the region’s viticulture. His approach emphasizes the importance of site-specific wines, with a focus on Pinot Noir. Wright’s dedication to showcasing the distinctiveness of each vineyard has led to collaborations with various growers, including Dick Shea of Shea Vineyard, to produce wines that reflect the unique attributes of their origins.

Vineyards and Microclimate

Shea Vineyard, located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, spans approximately 200 acres of rolling hills. The vineyard’s soils are primarily composed of ancient marine sedimentary rock, contributing to the complexity and minerality of the wines. The region experiences a cool climate with significant diurnal temperature variations, which promote slow ripening and the development of nuanced flavors in the grapes.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2020 Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir was crafted with a focus on preserving the purity of fruit and the expression of terroir. Grapes were hand-harvested and sorted to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation occurred in small open-top fermenters with native yeasts, followed by aging in French oak barrels, a portion of which were new. This approach allowed for the integration of oak nuances without overpowering the wine’s inherent characteristics.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir presents a vibrant ruby hue. On the nose, it offers an array of aromas including marionberry, blueberry, cedar, lily, and violet. The palate is savory and spice-focused, with juicy red and black fruits lingering alongside notes of orange zest, potting soil, and black tea. The wine exhibits a seamless palate weight and a lingering finish, showcasing the complexity and elegance characteristic of Shea Vineyard. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes that complement its savory and floral profile. Consider serving it with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or grilled salmon. The wine’s acidity and tannin structure also make it a suitable match for dishes featuring earthy flavors, such as lentil stew or roasted root vegetables. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert can further enhance the wine’s nuanced character.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the 2020 Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir, serve it at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 30–60 minutes prior to serving can help open up the wine’s aromatic profile. Use large, tulip-shaped Pinot Noir glasses to concentrate the aromas and allow for proper aeration. Avoid serving the wine too cold, as this can mute its expressive flavors and aromas.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine possesses the structure and balance to age gracefully over the next 8 to 10 years. Stored under optimal conditions—cool temperatures around 12–15°C, with 70% humidity and minimal light exposure—the wine will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes such as dried fruit, forest floor, and leather emerging over time. Proper cellaring will reward patience, revealing the wine’s full potential.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 95 points

• Wine Spectator: 94 points