2015 J. Christopher ‘Nuages’ Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir, Oregon

Ernst Loosen is known for one of the wine world's greatest contributions to the Riesling cause. Less well known is his devotion to Pinot Noir, which he's been growing since 1996 at his Pfalz winery Villa Wolf. In 2004 he hosted a young Oregon Pinot producer named Jay Somers for harvest in the Mosel. Their friendship led to a partnership, and in 2010 they built a winery and planted a vineyard in Oregon’s northern Willamette Valley, in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. The winery specialises in Pinot Noir made using the traditional methods of Burgundy, including biodynamic practices in the vineyard. These wines are handcrafted in small batches and throw a spotlight on the distinct sub-regions—and best vineyards—of Oregon.