Light Reds

WINE #1

2019 Leah Jorgensen Cellars
Gamay Noir
Van Duzer Corridor, Oregon

In 2004, Leah visited Oregon, her father’s home state, to attend the prestigious Oregon Pinot Camp. The experience left such an impression that she soon returned to the Willamette Valley, a region deeply connected to her family’s farming heritage. Her great-grandparents, originally from Denmark and Norway, immigrated to the United States in the late 1800s and spent generations farming in states like Montana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Dakota before settling in Oregon. Their agricultural roots inspired Leah as she embraced her family’s legacy in the Pacific Northwest.

This Gamay Noir originates from the Havlin Vineyard in the Van Duzer Corridor sub-AVA of the Willamette Valley, planted with cuttings from the historic Seven Springs Vineyard, America’s original Gamay Noir site established by Al McDonald in 1984.

Light to medium-bodied, this vibrant wine offers bright acidity and a medley of raspberry, cranberry, and cherry flavors, finishing with Gamay’s signature peppercorn spice. Comparable to classic Cru Beaujolais like Morgon and cult Loire Valley Gamay Noirs from Touraine, it’s an ideal companion to the Thanksgiving table, comforting fall dishes, or even lighter spring and summer fare.

WINE #2

2022 Echolands Rivière-Galets
Grenache
Walla Walla Valley, Washington

Wine visionaries Brad Bergman and Doug Frost, both from Kansas City, saw the magic of Walla Walla Valley grapes in 2018. They founded Echolands Winery, believing in the region's ability to craft exceptional, age-worthy wines. In 2023, renowned winemaker Brian Rudin joined the team. Together, they're dedicated to sustainable practices and wines that showcase the valley's unique potential for elegance and balance.

This Grenache is bursting with juicy cherry fruit punch, grounded by earthy notes like strawberry-rhubarb crumble and a hint of raspberry leaf. The finish features a touch of spicy clove with lingering bright cranberries.

WINE #3

2021 Boundary Breaks
Cabernet Franc
Finger Lakes, New York

Boundary Breaks founder Bruce Murray took a bold leap at 50. Leaving his publishing career behind, he purchased 120 acres in the Finger Lakes (previously corn and soybeans) in 2007, drawn to the region's potential for cool-climate grapes. Recognizing the unique terroir, he believed it could rival established Riesling regions like Germany and Alsace. While Boundary Breaks grows other varieties, Riesling remains a focus, aiming to showcase the Finger Lakes' potential for world-class expressions.

This wine offers aromas of blackberry and cinnamon, which meld with crushed herbs on the nose. There’s a pleasing depth of blackberry and cherry flavors on the palate that are lifted by a violet tone. An ideal pairing with grilled meats, hearty stews, or pastas with red sauce.

This wine received 90 points from Wine Enthusiast.