Martin Woods Tualatin Estate Vineyard Gamay Noir (2021)
The 2021 Martin Woods Tualatin Estate Vineyard Gamay Noir is a brilliant interpretation of the varietal that speaks volumes about its origin in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. On pouring, the wine reveals an intensely radiant, ruby hue – the first of its many enchanting characteristics.
In your glass, it greets the olfactory sense with an exuberant bouquet of ripe strawberries, red cherries, and a whisper of raspberry. It evokes an immediate impression of walking through a farmers’ market in the heart of summer. The fruit is beautifully complemented by a subtle floral undertone, echoing fragrant violets and the delicate allure of peonies. Taking a sip, the palate is met with an equal measure of fruit and terroir. The vivid berry flavors are masterfully balanced with an undertone of wet earth and a hint of minerality – a nod to the unique soil composition of the vineyard. This wine carries a medium-bodied structure that is generously layered yet wonderfully balanced. The tannins are soft yet present, guiding this wine’s texture to a smooth, rounded finish. This Gamay Noir carries its acidity with grace, resulting in a lively freshness that threads through the tasting experience, enhancing the red fruit characteristics and creating a lasting, crisp finish. A masterclass in balance, the 2021 Martin Woods Tualatin Estate Vineyard Gamay Noir brings together fruit, terroir, acidity, and tannin in a harmonious ensemble. It is, quite simply, a symphony in a bottle – a testament to the winemaker’s skill and the potential of Oregon’s wine country. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for a few years, it promises a remarkable tasting experience.
