“As we move into the holiday season — Thanksgiving being right around the corner — the question of what to pair with festive meals is asked more and more. Pinot noir, with its complex flavor profiles, light to medium body, and elegant texture, is a versatile go-to. And Oregon — the Willamette Valley in particular — is proving itself to be the epicenter of pinot noir in the U.S.

As winemakers from all over the world bring their experience and energy to this pocket of the Pacific Northwest, there’s no better time than now to explore all Oregon has to offer. Here are 10 Oregon pinot noir wines to reach for this season.” – Shana Clarke

“The Pommard clone (originally from Burgundy) dominates in Yamhill-Carlton — one of the highest elevation sites in Willamette Valley. Because of the cool climate and slow ripening conditions, grapes are picked as late as November. Blueberry, violets, and plum on the nose meet a mineral, flinty undertone. Along with bright tannins, on the palate, the wine has good acidity, plus silky but crunchy fruit.” – Shana Clark

Want to know who else made the list? Read the article at winecountry.com

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Shana Clarke is a freelance journalist and consultant based in New York City. Her work regularly appears in a variety of consumer and trade publications. She holds a Level 3 Advanced Certification from Wine & Spirits Education Trust and served as a judge at the TexSom International Wine Awards. Follow her at @ShanaSpeaksWine and see more of her work on www.shanaspeakswine.com