Wine Description
Drum & Fife is a dry, estate-grown Willamette Valley Pinot Noir made entirely from Pommard, with dark cherry, tart blackberry, blue fruit, forest floor, warm spice, and orange peel. Silky at first, it builds toward firm, lightly grippy tannins and a steady, savory finish - darker and more structured, with a quiet pulse of power underneath.
Naming Inspiration
Inspired by "Drum + Fife" by The Smashing Pumpkins. The name reflects the steady power of this Willmatte Valley Pinot Noir, dark fruit and earth above, structure and rhythm underneath, carrying the wine forward.
Studio Notes
- From the Vineyard: Estate Pommard Pinot Noir from Block 1B at Compris Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Planted in 2000 on volcanic Jory soil at approximately 400 to 500 feet elevation. LIVE Certified and farmed with organic and biodynamic principles.
- In the Cellar: The fruit was fully destemmed and received a four-day cold soak before native fermentation in macro bins. Extraction began with pumpovers and transitioned to punchdowns as fermentation progressed. The wine aged for 10 months in French oak, with 33% new oak.
- Tech at a Glance: Harvested October 2, 2022, 23.3° Brix, 13.3% alcohol, TA 5.7 g/L, pH 3.39, 0 g/L residual sugar, 75 cases produced
Tasting Notes
Style at a glance: Dry; Medium-bodied; Firm, lightly grippy tannins; Steady, savory finish
Aroma: Dark cherry, tart blackberry, blue fruit, dusty earth, forest floor, and warm spice
Palate: A silky entry brings dark cherry, blackberry, and earthy spice before firmer, textured tannins begin to take hold. Orange peel adds brightness and definition through a steady, persistent finish.
Pairs well with: Roast duck, grilled lamb, pork shoulder, mushroom ragù, roasted root vegetables, and aged cheddar.
Open it for: A slow-cooked dinner, a cool evening, or anytime you want Pinot Noir with darker fruit, earthy depth, and a little more grip.
Bottle Details
Release Date
June 2025
Alcohol %
13.3%
AVA
Chehalem Mountains
