Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2015 Nicolas Jay

Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Nicolas-Jay: Elegance and Purity from the Heart of Oregon

History and Philosophy

The Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Nicolas-Jay is a refined expression of Oregon’s terroir, a wine that combines the elegance of Burgundy with the vibrancy and energy of the Willamette Valley. The project was born from the collaboration between Jean-Nicolas Méo, renowned Burgundian winemaker from Domaine Méo-Camuzet, and Jay Boberg, music entrepreneur and passionate wine lover. Nicolas-Jay follows a philosophy of respect for nature and minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the wine to express the true character of its vintage and origin.

The winemaking approach is based on organic and biodynamic principles, with spontaneous fermentations and minimal use of sulfites to ensure the purest expression of the fruit.

Vineyard and Terroir

The grapes for Willamette Valley Pinot Noir come from a selection of vineyards located in some of the best subregions of the area, including Dundee Hills, McMinnville, and Eola-Amity Hills. The volcanic and sedimentary soils, combined with the region’s cool climate and significant diurnal temperature shifts, allow for a slow ripening process, contributing to the wine’s finesse and aromatic complexity.

Low-yielding vines ensure greater concentration of flavors and a perfect balance between acidity and structure.

Vinification and Aging

The winemaking process follows traditional methods, with a non-interventionist approach to preserve the authenticity of the fruit:

• Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, in small batches to enhance complexity.

• Gentle maceration to extract color and soft tannins without excess.

• Aging in French oak barrels (about 30% new oak) for 12-14 months, adding elegance and structure without overpowering the wine’s character.

Tasting Notes

The Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Nicolas-Jay is a vibrant and elegant wine that embodies the essence of Oregon Pinot Noir:

• Color: Bright ruby red with garnet reflections.

• Aroma: Complex and refined, with aromas of red berries (raspberry, cherry, red currant), floral hints of rose and violet, and subtle spicy notes of white pepper and black tea.

• Taste: Silky and fresh on the palate, with a well-balanced structure and elegant tannins. The vibrant acidity adds depth, while the long finish reveals red fruit, forest floor, and a hint of minerality.

Variety

• 100% Pinot Noir

Serving Temperature and Alcohol Content

• Serving temperature: 14-16°C (57-61°F), to fully appreciate its aromatic finesse.

• Alcohol content: Around 13-13.5% ABV, depending on the vintage.

Food Pairings

The Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Nicolas-Jay is a versatile wine, perfect for pairing with a wide range of refined dishes:

• White meats: Ideal with roasted duck, grilled chicken, or turkey.

• Fish: Pairs beautifully with rich fish like salmon or seared tuna.

• Cheese: Perfect with soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Taleggio.

• Vegetarian dishes: Excellent with mushrooms, truffle risottos, and root vegetable dishes.

Conclusion

The Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Nicolas-Jay is a refined and authentic expression of Oregon Pinot Noir, seamlessly blending Burgundian finesse with New World energy. This elegant and complex wine is perfect for those seeking a Pinot Noir that tells the story of its land with purity and class.

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Nicolas-Jay: Burgundian Elegance in the Heart of Oregon

History and Philosophy

The story of Nicolas-Jay was born from the meeting of two passions: that of Jean-Nicolas Méo, renowned Burgundian vigneron and owner of the prestigious Domaine Méo-Camuzet, and that of Jay Boberg, music producer and great wine enthusiast. Their journey into the world of Pinot Noir began in 2011, when they decided to combine the elegance of Burgundian tradition with the unique character of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

Today, the winery represents a perfect balance between French savoir-faire and the extraordinary expression of American terroir. Nicolas-Jay’s philosophy is clear: absolute respect for nature, minimal intervention winemaking, and meticulous attention to detail to create authentic and long-lived wines. Each vintage is interpreted with sensitivity, without excessive manipulation, allowing the terroir to express itself in its purest form.

The Wines of Nicolas-Jay

The undisputed star of the winery is Pinot Noir, the iconic grape of both Burgundy and Oregon:

• Pinot Noir Willamette Valley: A refined and terroir-driven expression, with vibrant red fruits, freshness, and elegance. A wine that perfectly embodies the harmony between volcanic soils and Burgundian expertise.

• Pinot Noir Single Vineyard: Sourced from select parcels, it showcases the finesse and complexity of the unique terroirs within the valley.

Alongside their Pinot Noirs, Nicolas-Jay has also successfully highlighted another great variety:

• Chardonnay: Carefully aged without excessive oak, this wine balances mineral tension and creamy structure, achieving perfect harmony between freshness and depth.

Iconic Productions and Curiosities

Beyond their classic wines, Nicolas-Jay stands out for some unique cuvées that reflect the winery’s experimental vision:

• L’Ensemble: An exclusive blend of the best vineyard parcels from the vintage, crafted to highlight the complexity and aging potential of Oregon Pinot Noir.

• Baselines: A label exploring unconventional vintages and vineyards, perfect for those seeking a different perspective on the Willamette Valley.

Conclusion

Nicolas-Jay is the perfect fusion of two worlds: Burgundian refinement and New World energy. Their wines, always faithful to the vintage and terroir, offer an elegant and uncompromising interpretation of Oregon Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Each bottle tells a story of passion, friendship, and the pursuit of excellence, making every sip a journey between France and the United States.