La Crema, part of Jackson Family Wines, originated as a Russian River-focused winery, but it now produces pinot from several appellations, both in California and in Oregon. The parent company started making large investments in Oregon about five years ago, acquiring both vineyards and wineries. The fruit for this wine is sourced from eight vineyards, including some that are Jackson Family-owned.
The 2015 vintage in the Willamette Valley was considered to be excellent, with high quality and high yields. This pinot is fully ripe but not overripe, and it has a lovely woodsy quality to complement its lively, dark raspberry fruit and baking spice flavors. It finishes with fine tannins and a supple texture. At $30, it’s not cheap, but the price is reasonable relative to the quality.
The wine is a good choice for Saturday’s National Pinot Noir Day. No matter what pinot you like to drink, there’s a good chance that your favorite producer has some sort of promotion going on, so check it out.