Pinot Noir is the heartbreaker of the wine world—in the best way possible. It’s delicate, finicky, and demands constant attention, but when treated right, it produces some of the most elegant and expressive wines on the planet. Unlike hardier grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, which can thrive in a variety of climates, Pinot Noir is a bit of a diva, requiring just the right balance of cool temperatures, well-drained soils, and meticulous vineyard care. But for those willing to put in the work, the rewards are nothing short of magic.
So, where does Pinot Noir shine? Burgundy is its birthplace, but this beloved grape has found a second home in places like California, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Chile, and even Germany. While every region brings its own twist to the table, one has risen through the ranks to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best—Oregon.
Oregon’s Pinot Noir Revolution
Oregon’s journey to Pinot Noir greatness is one of passion, persistence, and a little bit of rebellion. Back in the 1960s, when most American winemakers focused on big, bold reds, a handful of visionaries saw something special in Oregon’s cool climate and diverse soils. They took a gamble, planting Pinot Noir vines in an unproven region—and it paid off.
One of the earliest believers was David Lett of Eyrie Vineyards, who planted the first Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley in 1965. Soon after, trailblazers like Dick Erath, Dick Ponzi, and Cal Knudsen followed suit, each bringing their own expertise and passion to the region. Their dedication set the stage for what would become one of the world’s most celebrated Pinot Noir regions.
Oregon officially put itself on the global wine map in 1979 when a Pinot Noir from Eyrie Vineyards stunned the wine world at a blind tasting in Paris, earning top marks against some of Burgundy’s best. It was a mic-drop moment—proof that Oregon’s Pinot Noir wasn’t just good; it was world-class.
Knudsen Vineyards: A Legacy of Innovation
Among the pioneers, Knudsen Vineyards played a crucial role in shaping Oregon’s Pinot Noir legacy. Established in 1971, Knudsen Vineyards was one of the first vineyards dedicated to growing Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley. Today, it remains a cornerstone of the region, producing high-quality grapes that contribute to some of Oregon’s most renowned wines.
Spanning 228 acres, with 130 acres producing Pinot Noir, Knudsen Vineyards is uniquely positioned on two southeast-facing slopes at elevations between 500 and 1,000 feet. This prime location, paired with Jory soil—Oregon’s official state soil—creates the perfect environment for producing complex, beautifully balanced Pinot Noir.
Oregon’s Place Among the World’s Best
Today, Oregon Pinot Noir stands proudly alongside the finest wines from Burgundy, California, and New Zealand. The Willamette Valley’s cool climate, volcanic soils, and dedication to sustainable winemaking result in wines that are refined, elegant, and deeply expressive.
At Knudsen Vineyards, we’re honored to be part of this ongoing story. With each vintage, we continue to push boundaries, refine our craft, and celebrate the extraordinary potential of Oregon Pinot Noir. The journey is just getting started—so pour yourself a glass and taste the legacy for yourself!
