Violin Pinot Noir Polk County Eola-Amity Hills

Violin Wine is the personal project of Will Hamilton, an accomplished Oregon winemaker who founded the label in 2013 after years working with some of the Willamette Valley's respected producers. His focus is on small-production Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from carefully selected vineyards, with an emphasis on natural fermentation, restrained oak and the freshness that defines Oregon's finest cool-climate wines. Hamilton works closely with independent growers, favoring dry-farmed vineyards and moderate yields that allow each site to express its character.

The 2022 Polk County Cuvée comes exclusively from four vineyards in the southern Eola-Amity Hills: Witness Tree, Temperance Hill, Sojeau and Justice. These vineyards are strongly influenced by cool Pacific winds entering the Willamette Valley through the Van Duzer Corridor, helping preserve acidity and develop the savory complexity that distinguishes the appellation. The blend combines 37% Witness Tree, 25% Temperance Hill, 25% Sojeau and 13% Justice, with vines averaging approximately 25 years of age. Each component was aged separately in barrel for nearly fifteen months before blending and a final period in stainless steel.

The 2022 is a particularly compelling expression of the region, combining ripe strawberry and tart raspberry with dried roses, violets, licorice, clove and an earthy, mineral character. The palate is energetic and precise, with fine-grained tannins, lively acidity and a saline finish. Eric Guido awarded it 93 points in Vinous, praising its balance and youthful structure. Just 395 cases and 18 magnums were produced. We selected Polk County because it delivers what makes Oregon Pinot Noir so exciting: distinctive vineyards, thoughtful winemaking, moderate alcohol and remarkable complexity without unnecessary weight or excess.