The Pinnacle of Pinot: A Legacy of the Gorge

In the world of Oregon wine, Pinot Noir is the undisputed protagonist. But while the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley are well-known, there is a different story being told here, 60 miles to the east, in the shadow of the Cascades. At Mt. Hood Winery, our Pinot Noir isn’t just a varietal; it’s a reflection of a rare microclimate and a century of stewardship on this land.

The "Alpine" Pinot Noir Difference

The Hood River Valley offers a dramatic departure from the maritime influence of western Oregon. Here, our vines are high-altitude explorers, sitting between 800 and 1,200 feet above sea level. This elevation creates a "Diurnal Shift" warm, sun-drenched days followed by crisp, cool mountain nights.

What does this mean for your glass?

While a valley Pinot Noir might be lush and soft, a Hood River Pinot Noir is structural and vibrant. The cool nights preserve a bracing natural acidity, while the volcanic "Wind River" soils born from ancient eruptions and the Missoula Floods impart a distinct mineral edge. You’ll find notes of bright Rainier cherry, forest floor, and a hint of white pepper that you won't find anywhere else.

2016: A Vintage of a Lifetime

Our commitment to this finicky grape reached a historic milestone when Mt. Hood Winery was named 2016 Oregon Winery of the Year by Wine Press Northwest.

Central to this honor was our 2014 Estate Pinot Noir, which was awarded the prestigious Cole Danehower Award for Best Oregon Wine. This wasn't just a win for us; it was a win for the entire Columbia Gorge AVA. It proved that our volcanic slopes could produce a Pinot Noir that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the greatest vineyards in the world.

"Our Pinot Noir is truly a product of the mountain nurtured by glacial meltwater and perfected by the unique winds of the Gorge." — Rich, Winemaker (Retired)

The Versatility of the Pino Noir Grape

Our passion for Pinot Noir extends beyond the traditional red. We invite you to explore the different "faces" of this grape through our estate collection:

• The Estate Pinot Noir: Our flagship red, showcasing classic cherry and plum with a touch of savory smoke.

• The Estate Rosé: Summer in a bottle, harvested early to maintain a zesty acidity and a bouquet of wild strawberry.