Wine

Ten outstanding pinot noirs from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, whose wines emulate the best of Burgundy. 176 Five Rheingau rieslings of 2015 not to miss. 178 Three consecutive excellent seasons in Oregon promise to deliver plenty of treats

Winemakers in the state of Oregon, which borders northern California, have enjoyed three consecutive outstanding vintages, 2014-16, and are making some of the most exciting pinot noirs in the world. The wines, which can emulate the best of Burgundy, have a unique purity of fruit due to the coastal state’s cool climate. James Suckling presents 10 outstanding examples after tasting close to 300 in the Willamette Valley in October

drouhin oregon roserock eola-amity hills Zéphirine 2014 Juicy and intense. Lots of plum and chocolate with cedar undertones. Full bodied and velvety, pretty and gorgeous. Love the fruit and texture. Racy and fine. Drink now. 96 points

antica terra Willamette Valley Ceras 2014 A phenomenal wine with such clarity and energy. Vivid. Full body, firm and silky. A sleeping beauty. Density with polish. The salinity is so cool and gives it complexity. Glorious. Drink or hold. 96 points

domaine Serene Willamette Valley monogram 2012 Aromas of blueberry, blackberry, asphalt, peach and orange peel. Fantastic. A full-bodied, extremely polished red with velvety tannins. Centre palate is superb. Forest fruits, fresh mushroom and dried...

Soter Vineyards yamhillcarlton mineral Springs ranch 2014 Terrific aromas of strawberry and rose petal. Superb energy and vibrancy. Full body, incredible power and depth, with fabulous balance and intensity. A tightly wound ball of silk. Super quality...