Roserock Drouhin Oregon Zéphirine Pinot Noir 2018
The colour of the Zéphirine flashes in the glass like the gemstone red apatite. The nose is alluring like blackberry bramble and bilberry and eventually folds into white pepper and stone. These deep, beautifully defined aromatics set the stage for a complex and layered explosion of flavours. Silky smooth, with a poised structure, this is an excellent selection for long-term aging.
Roserock is an extraordinary vineyard at the southern tip of the Eola-Amity Hills, in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Ancient volcanic soils, an ideal elevation range and the unique cooling effect of the Van Duzer corridor produce classic cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Roserock is LIVE-certified sustainable.
Zéphirine Pinot Noir is a barrel selection cuvée from the Roserock vineyard, and is a reference expression of the site. Zéphirine conveys purity and beauty, reflects winemaker Véronique Drouhin’s dedication to elegance and finesse, and will age meaningfully for years to come. The name refers to the Zéphirine Drouhin variety of climbing rose, which is known for its fragrance and beauty.
| RRP | £57.95 |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Alcoholic strength | 14% |
| Country | USA |
| Region | Oregon |
| Subregion | Willamette Valley |
| Grapes | Pinot Noir 100% |
| Contains sulphites | Yes |
| Organic | No |
| Biodynamic | No |
| Closure | Cork |
When Joseph Drouhin established his eponymous négociant company in 1880, he could scarcely have imagined that his family name would one day grace an estate in Oregon. Purchased by his grandson Robert in 1987, whose eye for an opportunity was instrumental in the company’s post-war success, Drouhin’s Dundee Hills vineyard was joined in 2013 by Roserock Estate in the Eola-Amity Hills. The original site has a remarkable similarity in climate, latitude and aspect to the great vineyards of Burgundy, whilst Roserock has a cooler climate and volcanic soils; both produce Pinot Noir and Chardonnay of great clarity and finesse. Robert’s children Véronique and Philippe, who oversee winemaking and viticulture respectively, are also on hand to ensure the Drouhin style is present whilst simultaneously allowing Oregon’s unique terroir to shine through.
