2021 Zena Crown The Slope Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

Pouring a ruby/magenta hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Slope is almost all from the 667 clone of Pinot Noir and was entirely destemmed and raised for 17 months in nearly 70% new French oak. It reveals beautiful aromas of kirsch, floral and fruit notes of mixed berries, crushed flowers, sweet mossy earth, and a hint of anise. Medium-bodied, it expands through the palate, with a weightless feel, ripe tannins, the texture of river stones, and a clean finish. It’s a fantastic wine with a cuddly feel, but it’s never heavy and it has a great finish. Drink 2025-2040.

96 points jebdunnuck.com

The 2021 Pinot Noir Slope comes from grapes planted in volcanic soils, and on the nose, tar and scorched earth aromas give way over time to pomegranate, rhubarb, dried herbs and amaro. The medium-bodied palate is expressive and inviting, flooding the mouth with dynamic flavor layers. It has suede-textured tannins, vibrant acidity and a very long finish streaked with flint and spice. It will reward five or more years in the cellar and should be long lived.

95 points robertparker.com

From one of the steepest and most dramatic parcels within the Zena Crown Vineyard in the Eola Amity Hills, The Slope Pinot Noir captures the raw energy and precision of this celebrated Willamette Valley site. Planted on fractured volcanic and marine sedimentary soils and fully exposed to the cooling winds of the Van Duzer Corridor, the vineyard produces fruit of remarkable tension and aromatic intensity. Zena Crown has become a cult name among Pinot Noir collectors, known for meticulous farming and a cellar approach that favours clarity, structure and long ageing potential.

A deep yet translucent ruby garnet glows in the glass. Aromas rise in layered waves of dark cherry, wild raspberry and blood orange intertwined with rose petal, baking spice and a subtle earthy note of forest floor and crushed rock. There is an immediate sense of concentration and lifted perfume, a compelling balance of power and finesse.

The palate is finely sculpted and persistent, delivering vibrant red and dark berry fruit framed by ultra fine tannins and bright natural acidity. Nuances of pomegranate, tea leaf and savoury spice build through the mid palate, leading to a long, mineral driven finish that feels both muscular and graceful. This Pinot Noir is built for patience, evolving beautifully over twelve to fifteen years as layers of truffle, dried florals and autumnal depth emerge.

Think slow roasted lamb shared generously, grilled duck with crisp skin, or rich mushroom ragù enjoyed as the evening deepens. A vinyl spin of Bon Iver For Emma, Forever Ago or something immersive like Sigur Rós drifting through the room, the wine anchoring a mood that feels intimate, thoughtful and quietly unforgettable.