Subtle Perfection Exudes with Domaine Serene in Oregon’s Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir is perhaps the most difficult grape for a vintner to grow. It is temperamental, very susceptible to mold, and has a thin skin that can be easily bruised or burned. It is also one of the finest, most luxurious and elegant varietals created, especially when done well. Pinot Noir is the grape of Burgundy; it is also the most well known grape of Oregon, with several key characteristics that define both Burgundian and Oregon Pinot Noir—earthy, mushroom and mineral notes with strawberry, raspberry, spice and cola on the palate. The earthiness is what really distinguishes Oregon Pinot from those made in other parts of the world, and marries itself to those from Burgundy. One winery takes this grape to the next level, Domaine Serene.

Domaine Serene was started by Ken and Grace Evanstad in 1989 with the hope to make incredible Burgundian style Pinot Noir in the best place to do so in America, Willamette Valley. Now more than twenty years later they have accomplished their task, bringing a 95+ point Pinot Noir to the table, successfully with their Evanstad Reserve, Yamhill Cuvee, Winery Hill, Mark Bradford, Two Barns, Jerusalem Hill and their rare Monogram. All Pinot Noir, and all delicious!

The Evanstad Reserve is their signature wine, created from three different clones of Pinot Noir grown on their estate vineyards in Eola Hills and the Dundee Hills. Filled with aromas of spicy nutmeg and clove, layered with earthy, toasty aromas. The wine has great texture on the palate, with flavors of raspberry, cherry and tea. An elegant wine with a lush, lingering palate to be enjoyed now, but can also handle a bit of age. Visit The Grape this Wednesday night for an opportunity to taste the beautiful wines of Domaine Serene with a four course dinner featuring a few of their favorites, including a side by side pouring of the 2003 and 95 Point 2007 Evanstad Reserve. More details, here.

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