Carlton Hill Vineyard 'Estate' Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District, California

Crafted from a vintage that demanded patience and precision, 2017 Carlton Hill Vineyard Estate Pinot Noir captures the soul of Oregon’s Willamette Valley in a wine of balance, structure, and elegance. Produced in very limited quantities, it reflects both the character of a cool-climate season and the meticulous approach of winemaker David Polite, resulting in a Pinot Noir that will reward both early enjoyment and extended cellaring.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: David Polite
• Cases Produced: 180
• Vinification: Indigenous fermentations; 40% whole cluster fermentation
• Aging: 11 months in French oak barrels (20% new)
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Allergens: Contains sulfites

Sensory Description:

Brilliant garnet in the glass, this Pinot Noir opens with alluring aromas of ripe strawberries, cherries, and delicate floral notes, lifted by subtle hints of exotic spice and smoky undertones. On the palate, juicy red raspberry, tangy red currant, and bitter cherry are framed by fine-grained tannins and a lively core of natural acidity. Vanilla and baking spice from the oak add depth without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is nervy, eloquent, and long, echoing cherry and spice notes with a refined freshness that speaks to its cool-climate origins.

Awards & Accolades:

• 93 Points – James Suckling: “Very ripe strawberries and hints of cherries with some floral undertones. Medium-bodied with firm, silky tannins and a fresh finish. A bit reserved, but nicely crafted. Drink or hold.”
• 91 Points – Vinous: “Expressive red berry, floral and baking spice aromas show very good clarity and pick up a smoky nuance with air… Tangy red currant and bitter cherry flavors with a sweetening vanilla flourish. Fine-grained tannins lend gentle grip to a long, nervy finish.”

Winemaker's Background:

Carlton Hill Vineyard, owned and operated by winemaker David Polite, is guided by three principles: grow the best fruit possible, avoid manipulation in the cellar, and craft wines that display depth, structure, and age-worthiness. Fruit is exclusively estate-grown, allowing each vintage to express the vineyard’s unique character. Indigenous fermentations are the norm, and no enzymes or concentration techniques are used. By prioritizing balance, moderate alcohol, and bright acidity, Carlton Hill produces Pinot Noirs designed not just for immediate enjoyment, but also for extended cellaring.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 15–16 °C (59–61 °F) to highlight its elegance and freshness. This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with herb-roasted poultry, wild mushroom risotto, seared duck breast, or salmon. With its structure and acidity, it will continue to develop complexity over the next decade, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.

This vintage reflects the best of a challenging season, balancing ripeness from summer heat spikes with freshness and structure from September rains and cooler temperatures. With its expressive red fruit, spice, and refined tannins, the 2017 Carlton Hill Pinot Noir is a quintessential Willamette Valley wine, crafted for both immediate pleasure and long-term aging.