Utopia
From Willamette Valley, Oregon this 2021 “Paradise” Estate Reserve Pinot Noir was amazing from this winery. There is a reason why it’s called “Paradise”
Sip
Acidity: High, providing a bright, crisp, and refreshing taste
Body: Medium, has more weight and presence than light-bodied wines but are not as rich or heavy as full-bodied wines.
Tannins: Medium Tannin: Wines with medium tannin levels have a balanced structure, providing some astringency and grip without being overpowering.
Finish: Medium, with flavors lingering for 10-30 seconds
Aroma: A nice bouquet of cherry, plums, with underlying notes of herbs and spices.
Taste: The palate is treated to the same with cherry and plums with hints of vanilla and oak spices that add complexity and intrigue. It went well with the pasta Bolognese we enjoyed.
Savor
The 2021 “Paradise” Estate Reserve Pinot Noir in Willamette Valley pairs excellently with a range of dishes, enhancing the dish with its vibrant fruit flavors and balanced structure:
Grilled Chicken: The wine's light to medium body complements the lean protein of chicken without overpowering it. Its bright acidity cuts through any char or smokiness from the grill, while the juicy cherry and plum notes add a fruity contrast to the savory meat
Pork Tenderloin: The delicate flavors of pork tenderloin are elevated by the wine's floral aromas and mineral notes, creating a harmonious pairing.
Pasta with Bolognese: The wines juicy cherry & plum notes complement the rich tomato sauce, while the high acidity cuts through the meat’s richness
Grilled/smoked salmon: The Pinot Noir's light but discernible structure stands up to the rich flavors of salmon, while its cherry and plum notes add a fruity contrast.
Mushroom Risotto: The wine's earthy undertones and oak spiced flavors pair wonderfully with the umami-rich mushrooms in a creamy risotto.
Roasted Duck Breast: The wine's spicy notes and medium tannins complement the rich, gamey flavors of duck, while its acidity cuts through the fat.
Charcuterie Board: The versatile nature of this Pinot Noir makes it an excellent choice for a variety of cured meats and cheeses, with its fruit-forward profile and subtle spice notes enhancing the flavors.
By exploring these pairings, you'll unlock the full potential of the 2021 utopia “Paradise” Estate Reserve Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley,
Simplify
Vintage: 2021
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Country: Oregon, USA
ABV: 13.5%
Price & Store: $65.00 at the winery less if you join the wine club
Occasion: Versatile - Wines that can fit into multiple occasions, from casual to more formal settings.
Conclusion:
The Utopia 2021 “Paradise” Estate Reserve Pinot Noir in Willamette Valley stands as a versatile and elegant expression of its terroir. This wine showcases the best qualities of Oregon Pinot Noir, with its vibrant fruit profile, subtle earthy undertones, and balanced structure. We decided to end 2024 with a bang and what better way than to sip a little “Paradise”.