Cristom 'Mt. Jefferson Cuvee' Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, California

Morning fog drifts through the wind-swept hills of the Eola-Amity range as Pacific breezes funnel inland, cooling the vineyards and slowing the ripening of Pinot Noir. From this dramatic landscape, Cristom Vineyards crafts the Mt. Jefferson Cuvée, a wine that captures the soul of the estate and the elegance of Oregon’s most dynamic appellation. This cuvée is both an introduction to Cristom’s philosophy and a benchmark expression of place, shaped by wind, volcanic soils, and time-honored technique.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
• ABV: 13–14%
• Sweetness: Dry
• Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture with estate-focused fruit sourcing
• Soil Type: Volcanic basalt-derived soils
• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation with a high percentage of whole clusters
• Aging: French oak barrels (predominantly neutral)
• Production Focus: Multi-vineyard cuvée emphasizing estate vineyards
• Style: Red – Light and Perfumed

Sensory Description:

The Mt. Jefferson Cuvée opens with lifted aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, intertwined with notes of rose petal, forest floor, and subtle baking spice. On the palate, it is vibrant and refined, offering layers of fresh red fruit, hints of orange peel, and savory herbal nuances. Fine-grained tannins provide gentle structure, while bright acidity carries the wine through a long, graceful finish marked by minerality and spice. The overall impression is one of balance and finesse, expressive yet restrained, with unmistakable Eola-Amity energy.

Awards & Accolades:

• Gold – 2021 Vintage – TEXSOM International Wine Awards
• Gold – 2015 Vintage – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

Winemaker’s Background:

Founded in 1992 by Paul Gerrie, Cristom Vineyards is a cornerstone of Oregon Pinot Noir, renowned for its commitment to whole-cluster fermentation, native yeasts, and transparent expressions of terroir. Located in the Eola-Amity Hills, Cristom farms some of the region’s most respected vineyards. The Mt. Jefferson Cuvée serves as the winery’s flagship and foundation, a wine that embodies Cristom’s house style and long-standing dedication to balance, elegance, and site expression.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly chilled at 15–17°C (59–63°F) in a Burgundy-style glass. Exceptionally versatile at the table, it pairs beautifully with roast chicken or turkey, lamb tagine, or grilled kebabs, and complements dishes with gentle spice such as eel donburi or Thai jungle curry.

Graceful, aromatic, and deeply expressive, Cristom's Mt. Jefferson Cuvée’ Pinot Noir is a definitive Oregon Pinot, a wine that reflects the wind, soil, and philosophy of Eola-Amity Hills, offering clarity, balance, and enduring appeal in every glass.