Résonace is just another example of how the Burgundians believe in the potential of the Willamette Valley, especially for Pinot Noir. Drouhin started what is now a trend with establishment of Domaine Drouhin Oregon three decades ago. Maison Louis Jadot, another stellar Burgundy producer, purchased the 20-acre Resonance Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA in 2013 and expanded by buying the Découverte Vineyard in the Dundee Hills AVA. Though they are making Pinot Noirs from those two vineyards, this one is a blend of fruit from their vineyards and from others from throughout the Willamette Valley. Initially reticent, its charms appear after 30 minutes in the glass. A restrained red-cherry-like fruitiness blossoms with air. A welcome savory character — a cherry pit-like bitterness — balances the fruitiness. The overall impression is one of restraint and delicacy, reflecting their Burgundian roots.
Résonance, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2017
By Michael Apstein