Wines Dundee Hills (Oregon) Etude - yamhela vineyard - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Etude’s 2018 Yamhela Vineyard Cuvée from Dundee Hills AVA in Oregon is a captivating expression of American Pinot Noir. Sourced from the esteemed Yamhela Vineyard, this wine is crafted with meticulous attention to both site and varietal character. The 2018 vintage benefited from an ideal growing season with a long, warm summer, which allowed the grapes optimal ripeness while retaining freshness. Typically, in the Dundee Hills, the focus is on Pinot Noir, celebrated for its nuanced aromatics and silky textures. Expect a glass bright with garnet hues, aromatics that intertwine wild cherry, ripe raspberry, hints of rose petal, and subtle undertones of forest floor and baking spices. The palate is graceful—medium-bodied, suggesting both richness and finesse, carried by suave tannins and an energetic finish. Etude’s commitment to minimal intervention in the cellar ensures that the distinctiveness of the Dundee Hills terroir shines through in each bottle.

Dundee Hills sits at the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley and is perhaps its most iconic subregion. The AVA is defined by volcanic Jory soils—rich in iron and well-draining—combined with moderate elevations and a cooling maritime influence. This unique combination imparts vibrant acidity and a vivid, pure fruit profile to the wines. The region has built an international reputation since the late 20th century, gaining acclaim for Pinot Noir that rivals the great Burgundian crus, yet with its own distinctive New World energy and approachability.

For food pairings, the elegance and aromatic profile of this Dundee Hills Pinot Noir shine with duck breast, mushroom risotto, or grilled salmon—dishes that honor the earthy, red-fruited essence of the wine. Regional Pacific Northwest cuisine, such as cedar-planked Chinook salmon or wild mushroom tart, is also an inspired choice, enhancing the harmony between wine and local ingredients.

To fully appreciate Etude’s Yamhela Vineyard Cuvée, serve it slightly cool at 15-16°C. A brief decanting can help the wine open up and reveal its layers of fruit and spice. This bottle promises a beautifully balanced and expressive tasting experience, now or over the next several years.