95pts Jeb Dunnuck

From down near Hopewell on an east-facing slope, the 2021 Pinot Noir Elton Vineyard takes on a touch more pigment in its deep, transparent ruby hue and would benefit from decanting if drinking early, as it has a touch of reduction on opening. It opens to reveal a floral perfume of violets, black raspberry coulis, black pepper spice, and a hint of blue fruit shining through. Rounded and medium to full-bodied, though elegant and graceful, pure fruit fills the palate, and its floral perfume lasts through the finish. Also offering ripe tannins and a long finish with a hint of warming spice on the back, it’s another age-worthy wine to enjoy over the next 10-12 years. This site is currently being converted to organic viticulture.

94pts Wine Spectator

Displaying drive and energy, this Pinot offers full-bodied raspberry and dark berry flavors. Shows savory tea and dusky spice accents while building tension toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2033. 290 cases made.

94pts Vinous

The 2021 Pinot Noir Elton Vineyard is decidedly dark and mineral in character, blending crushed ashen stones with black olive nuances, wilted violets, hints of cola and crushed wild strawberries. Silky textures are contrasted by tart wild berry depths and saline-tinged acidity, saturating and enlivening the palate. A fantastic rendition of Elton Vineyard. 

93pts Wine Enthusiast

A spicy aroma of blackberries laced with cumin is joined by a warm graphite scent that conjures memories of Fourth of July sparklers. Elevated acidity and firm tannins are in harmony, with flavors like blackberries and blueberries, grated ginger and white tea holding sway. Graceful and elegant.

92pts James Suckling

Fruit-driven, floral and elegant, with notes of sour cherries, dried roses and wafers. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity. Vivid and agile with a transparent character. Juicy finish. Drink now.

Tasting Notes

Vibrant ruby-red. Lightly herbal nose showing whispers of eucalyptus, cassis, and violet. A complex potpourri of flavors fills the mouth with hints of plum, cherry, and raspberry mingling with baking spice. Sleek, minerally textures are enlivened by brisk acidity and distinguished tannins that suggest a long window of enjoyment.

About the Vineyard

In 2007, Elton Vineyard was named one of Oregon’s top ten vineyards by Wine Press Northwest, and in 2006 Wine & Spirits listed it as one of the five key vineyards in the Eola-Amity Hills American Viticultural Area. Owned by Dick and Betty O'Brien, the vineyard was planted on land inherited from Betty’s parents, Elton and Peggy Ingram — hence the name Elton Vineyard and the address on Ingram Lane. Upon the O'Briens' retirement in 2007, the vineyard was contracted under a long-term lease to Willamette Valley Vineyards. 

The first five acres of wine grapes were planted in 1983 by the O’Briens. The vineyard now includes more than 60 acres planted on east-southeast slopes of the Eola Hills, just west of Hopewell, in Yamhill County. The elevation rises from 250-500 feet, and the vineyard soil is primarily Jory and Nekia. 

The majority of the vineyard contains Pinot Noir, including Pommard, Wädenswil, 115, 777 and 114 clones. The vineyard also includes Dijon Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and a small amount of Grüner Veltliner grapes. Wines made from the grapes at Elton Vineyard, by several winemakers, have been rated 90+ points by The Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, among others.