Antiquum Farm Passiflora Pinot Noir 2021

Perched at 800 feet above sea level, Antiquum Farm is nearly at the edge of what is considered a growable elevation for wine in the Willamette Valley. Despite this elevation, the slope collects heat during the day and is warmer the higher up the slope you go, then it all cools down at night. Stephen refuses to irrigate his vines, making them dig for their needs. The soils are cultivated in the tradition of pre-1940s agriculture. No outside fertilizers, synthetic or otherwise, are used. His methods are even more organic than what the certified organic rules require. The vineyard floor is intensively managed for abundant life. This means letting the wild in, while contributing species enhance vine health, insect habitat and diversity. Returning livestock to this mix is essential: a flock of Katahdin/Dorper crosses are the cornerstone of fertility management. The Hagens' use intensive rotational grazing to cycle nutrients from diverse cover crops to the vines. Several years of this practice have led to a vineyard that needs no other fertilizer, creating wines that are truly site specific. We are calling Antiquum organic here above in the icons, but this estate is beyond organic, and even beyond biodynamic the way that Hagen is farming and creating wine. Fermentation is done with indigenous yeasts and the wines are vegan.

Passiflora is a revelation for many Pinotphiles. Inky, almost Syrah-like color leads one to assume Passiflora will be an overly lush fruit bomb. An aromatic dervish of passion fruit, peach, apricot, and floral notes however counter deep bramble fruit and blueberry. On the palate, opulent blue fruit tones swirl among singing hi-toned acidity. This wine is both beamingly bright and darkly powerful in the same moment, without feeling disjointed. It will cellar for many years to come. This cuvée is fermented with indigenous yeasts. Aged in 50% new French oak for up to 12 months. 350 cases produced.