Winemaker Chris Dowsett had just turned 15 when his family bought one of Oregon’s oldest vineyards on David Hill in the Willamette Valley. They learned the ropes on the fly, expanded the vineyard from 12 to 26 acres, and created a successful winery with their partners. After going to college and working at vineyards up and down the West Coast, Chris established Dowsett Family Winery in 2007. He currently makes Dowsett Family wines from Washington State and Oregon at Buty Winery in the Walla Walla Airport District, where he also serves as winemaker.

Today’s wine is crafted from 100% Pommard clone Pinot Noir sourced from Becklin Vineyards, located in the eastern Willamette Valley and owned by Chris’s sister, Libby Dowsett Becklin, and her husband, Don. A thread of Jory rock bisects the Becklin Vineyards. This igneous rock is derived from lava and has abundant red and brown clay along with clay loam. This terroir brings forth Pinot Noirs loaded with secondary, layered characters that bring complexity and elegance to the finished wines. 

The 2022 Dowsett Family Winert Becklin Vineyards Pinot Noir has aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and cranberries complemented by earthy notes of forest floor, mushrooms, and a hint of dried rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied, with bright, fresh acidity that lifts the wine’s fruit profile. Flavors of red cherries, wild strawberries, and pomegranates are entwined with a touch of cinnamon and clove. Silky tannins add texture, and the wine’s mineral undertones bring an added layer of depth. The finish is elegant and persistent, with lingering red fruits, earthy accents, and subtle mineral notes.

Press
92 points, Wine Enthusiast:
"I quite enjoyed the wine's aromatic mix of blackcap raspberries, lilies, and a chocolate note I always associate with Tootsie Pops. These tannins are chewy and the texture a bit chalky, with flavors like mulberries, green tea, and pistachios holding court. Bright acidity holds it all together. Enjoy 2024–2034."

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.1%
Producer Name: Dowsett Family Winery
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Sourced from Willamette Valley, OR, Made in Walla Walla, WA
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Dry, medium-bodied red
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Glass Burgundy bottle
Closure Style: Cork