5 Outstanding Oregon Pinot Blancs

Oregon is most certainly well-known for its world-class, stellar Pinot Noirs. Because our Pinot Noirs drive the attention of wine critics from around the world, our other outstanding Pinot varietals are sometimes forced to ride in the back seat when they should instead be sitting shot gun.

Check out these 5 outstanding Oregon Pinot Blancs that will be driving my attention all summer long. Pinot Blancs usually have complex aromas, crisp acidity and tropical flavors that combine to make the perfect wine to enjoy while sitting in the sun, shoes off and feet up.

The Four Graces 2011 Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc ~ This is my all time favorite Pinot Blanc. Peaches and pears on the nose are followed by perfectly balanced and vibrant flavors of mandarin orange, grapefruit and juicy green apples. The lingering finish is spirited and vivacious and down-right delicious.

Misty Oaks Vineyard 2009 Constitution Ridge Umpqua Valley Pinot Blanc ~ Aromas of honeycrisp apples and melon explode from the glass while lemon and lime leap on to the tongue along with hints of pineapple. Lively acidity plays a role in this wine’s everlasting, refreshing finish.

Benton-Lane 2010 Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc ~ This limited production beauty is all about the apples and butterscotch, in both aroma and flavor. There’s a hint of roasted nuts on the finish that is crisp and vibrant.

Brigadoon 2010 Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc ~ Zesty lemon aromas lead to rich, complex fruity flavors. Crisp acidity and citrus flavors leave your taste buds wanting to pair this limited production gem with a bucket full of steamer clams or one of my favorite foods: Oregon Dungeness Crab. Just 90 cases produced.

Apolloni 2009 Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc ~ This Oregon Pinot Blanc was made in the traditional Italian Pinot Bianco style. Crisp with bright acidity, this wine is super refreshing and perfect for warm summer afternoons on the patio (or while camping on the beach like in the photo I took last summer). Enticing aromas of grapefruit and pear follow through to the front and mid palate and this finish is all about the citrus fruits. This is one of those extremely well balanced white wines that is simply ambrosial.