A Trio of Terroir: Exploring Prince Hill’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

Hite Jinro, a prominent beverage company, has expanded its portfolio with the introduction of three premium wines sourced from Oregon’s esteemed prince Hill Vineyards. This launch signifies a growing interest in the nuanced flavors and sustainable practices of the Willamette Valley wine region.

Prince Hill Vineyards: A Legacy of Oregonian Winemaking

Founded in 1983 by Dick Erath, a pioneering figure in Oregon Pinot noir, Prince hill Vineyards boasts a unique terroir. Its diverse altitudes and exposures contribute to optimal grape maturity and a complex flavor profile. The vineyard’s clay-rich soil, known for its nutrient density and moisture retention, allows for dry farming, further enhancing the concentration of flavors in the grapes. This commitment to natural viticulture aligns with the increasing consumer demand for sustainably produced wines. According to a recent report by Wine Intelligence, sustainability is a key purchase driver for nearly 40% of wine consumers globally.

Prince Hill vineyards showcases the optimal grape maturity and the depth of various flavors due to its exposure in various altitude and directions.

Silver Oak‘s Stewardship: Continuing a Tradition of Excellence

in a move that underscores the vineyard’s commitment to quality, Dick Erath sold Prince Hill Vineyards to Silver Oak, a renowned producer celebrated for its exceptional Pinot Noir and dedication to sustainable farming practices. Silver Oak’s first vintage from Prince Hill was released in 2022, marking a new chapter in the vineyard’s history. This acquisition reflects a broader trend of established wineries investing in vineyards with proven track records for producing high-quality grapes.

Wine Profiles: A Taste of Prince Hill Vineyards

Each of the three wines offers a distinct expression of the Prince Hill terroir:

Prince Hill Vineyards Willamette Valley Chardonnay

this Chardonnay is described as a true reflection of the Willamette Valley’s regional characteristics. Expect a harmonious blend of citrus blossoms and stone fruit aromas, complemented by a vibrant acidity and notes of chamomile, orange, and hazelnut. The Willamette Valley is increasingly recognized for its exceptional Chardonnay, offering a cooler-climate choice to California’s more opulent styles.

Prince Hill Vineyards Dundee Hills Pinot Noir

This Pinot Noir exhibits a light purple hue with ruby undertones. The aroma profile features notes of black cherry, strawberry, and other red berries, along with hints of ginger and cola. The wine is further characterized by floral notes and a well-structured tannin profile. The Dundee Hills AVA is especially known for producing Pinot Noir with elegance and finesse.

Prince Hill vineyards Single Vineyards Dundee Hills Pinot Noir

Considered the flagship wine of the collection, this Single Vineyard Pinot Noir offers a complex and layered experience. Expect a symphony of blackberry and cherry fruit, interwoven with notes of dark cocoa, violet, and minty herbs.This wine is lauded as a testament to Oregon’s customary winemaking expertise. single-vineyard designations are often reserved for wines that showcase the unique characteristics of a specific plot of land, highlighting the importance of terroir in winemaking.

Availability

The Prince Hill Vineyards wines will be available at major department stores and specialty wine shops throughout the country. Wine enthusiasts are encouraged to seek out these bottles to experience the quality and character of Oregon winemaking.