2023 Brooks Winery Pinot Blanc, Willamette Valley, Oregon

ABOUT THIS WINE

The Pinot Blanc is sourced from two vineyards- Crannel and Bellevue Cross. Grapes were immediately pressed off and fermented/aged in 50% foudres and 50% stainless steel tank.The 2023 growing season kicked off with a late budbreak, reminiscent of 2011. Following budbreak, a sudden shift to warm, dry weather marked the season, with only one June rain event. Ideal summer weather prevailed until a brief hot spell in August. Harvest commenced in late August, progressing smoothly until rains in September, which delayed picking but alleviated drought stress. Overall, fruit quality remained excellent, with balanced acidity and moderate sugars. While rain disrupted harvest timing, some fruit still met the 100-day bloom-to-harvest rule, suggesting no significant quality differences pre- and post-rain. 2023 wines will have beautiful concentration, exceptional freshness, and flavors. 

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

After traveling the world and experiencing the hard work of winemaking in Beaujolais, Jimi Brooks returned to Oregon and found a burgeoning wine world. He devoted the rest of his life to holistic farming and winemaking in the Willamette Valley, showcasing the region’s potential for expressive, complex, and balanced Riesling and Pinot Noir.

While Jimi is no longer with us, his strong commitment to biodynamic farming, his gentle approach to winemaking, and his excitement for the Willamette Valley terroir live on through the wines and team at Brooks Winery. Jimi’s son, Pascal, is the sole owner of the winery; Jimi’s sister, Janie Brooks Heuck, has volunteered her time to lead it; and Jimi’s longtime friend and winemaking accomplice, Chris Williams, continues to make Brooks’ wines.

There have been many milestones since Brooks was founded in 1998. In 2008, the winery expanded its winemaking operations and purchased the 20-acre vineyard Jimi started farming in 2002. In 2012, they obtained biodynamic certification from Demeter. In 2014, a new winery and tasting room were opened. This welcoming tasting room, with its ample seating and wine bar, overlooks the Cascade Range and the Willamette Valley floor, making it perfect for gatherings with friends and family—a fitting reflection of Jimi’s vision.

The wine shop proudly features Brooks’ wines among its curated selection, inviting visitors to explore and enjoy the fruits of the Willamette Valley, where passion and dedication to excellence in winemaking are evident in every bottle.