Why it matters
The producer
Dick Erath moved from California to the Willamette Valley in 1968 intending to establish a vineyard. Erath Winery made its first wine in 1972, then Dick Erath and Cal Knudsen formed Knudsen Erath in 1975. By 1987, the winery was producing 35,000 cases annually. Erath and Knudsen separated in 1988, after which Dick continued to make wine under the Erath name.
The winemaking role later changed hands. Erath transitioned from Dick Erath to Gary Horner as principal winemaker in 2003. Leah Adint served as head winemaker at Erath Winery in Dundee, Oregon, beginning in July 2022. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates bought Erath Winery in 2006.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The Willamette Valley is where Dick Erath planned his vineyard and began planting. Erath Winery has been associated with Dundee, Oregon. A separate urban tasting room was located in Portland's Historic Pearl District, where it offered limited release and reserve wines from an Oregon grown Erath portfolio.
Wines to know
The range in view
Erath Pinot Noir is the named bottle represented here, with the 2023 vintage. Erath presents the 2023 Oregon Pinot Noir as 100% Pinot Noir at 13.5% alcohol. The portfolio has included limited release and reserve wines, and the 2023 journal discusses single vineyard wines described as relatively structured and weighty, with decanting recommended during their first few years.
The wine pours bright cranberry with scarlet highlights. Black cherry and cola lead the aroma, followed by a subtle trace of toasted oak. Lively acidity carries strawberry compote and gentle baking spice across the palate. The finish is soft, with delicacy alongside plush fruit.