Whoa Nelly is a line of drink-now wines made by Anne Hubatch as a companion label to her upscale label, Helioterra Wines. Founded in 2012, Helioterra specializes in Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and several Rhône wines from Washington. Both labels are a part of the urban winery scene in Portland. Her 2022 Whoa Nelly Pinot is unmistakably Pinot with its bright Bing cherry aroma and earthy, forest floor background notes. The cherry theme continues with flavors that are vibrant and held together by ultra-smooth tannins. By no means simple, it is the ultimate picnic Pinot Noir or luncheon companion. And when you share a glass with a friend, you can debate the origin of the expression, “Whoa Nelly”: Roy Rogers or Keith Jackson?
Whoa Nelly, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2022
By Norm Roby