Introduction:
The 2022 Hamilton Russell Oregon “Zena Crown” Pinot Noir represents a focused, terroir-driven collaboration between the Hamilton Russell family and the renowned Zena Crown Vineyard in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Known for producing structured, age-worthy Pinot Noir, Zena Crown’s elevated, wind-swept parcels yield wines of precision, tension, and mineral depth. The 2022 vintage showcases purity of fruit layered with savory complexity and refined structure.

Terrior:
Zena Crown Vineyard sits in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA within Oregon’s Willamette Valley, benefiting from the cooling Van Duzer Corridor winds that funnel in from the Pacific Ocean. These daily breezes thicken grape skins, moderate temperatures, and preserve acidity. The soils are primarily volcanic basalt (Jory and Nekia series) with marine sedimentary components, providing excellent drainage and mineral character. The 2022 growing season delivered balanced ripening with moderate warmth and extended hang time, resulting in concentrated fruit with vibrant acidity and structural finesse.

Appearance:
Translucent ruby with garnet reflections, luminous and medium intensity, reflecting classic cool-climate Pinot Noir typicity.

Nose:
Elegant and layered, offering aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, and cranberry. Floral notes of rose petal and violet intertwine with subtle forest floor, clove, and crushed stone minerality. A delicate touch of oak reveals hints of baking spice and cedar without overshadowing fruit purity.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with silky yet structured tannins. Bright red fruit—sour cherry, raspberry, and pomegranate—unfolds across the palate, supported by lively acidity and a fine mineral backbone. Savory undertones of mushroom, dried herbs, and subtle earth add complexity. The texture is refined and linear, emphasizing balance and precision over opulence.

Finish:
Long, focused, and persistent, with lingering red fruit, subtle spice, and a mineral-driven tension that reflects its volcanic origins.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Herb-roasted duck breast, grilled salmon, or roasted pork tenderloin

• Vegetarian: Wild mushroom risotto, roasted beet salad with goat cheese, or truffle-infused pasta

• Charcuterie Board: Aged Gruyère, soft-ripened cheeses, cured ham, toasted hazelnuts, and rustic bread

Overall Impression:
The 2022 Hamilton Russell Oregon “Zena Crown” Pinot Noir beautifully expresses the volcanic soils and wind-cooled climate of Eola-Amity Hills. Vibrant red fruit, floral aromatics, and earthy complexity are framed by fine tannins and energetic acidity. The wine’s structure and mineral tension promise graceful evolution in bottle, while its elegance and balance make it highly versatile at the table. A superb pairing would be herb-roasted duck or mushroom-based dishes that mirror its savory nuances and refined texture.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture; vineyard-designate sourcing from Zena Crown Vineyard
Producer Name: Hamilton Russell Oregon
Old World / New World: New World (crafted with Old World philosophy)
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Oregon – Willamette Valley – Eola-Amity Hills AVA
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Dry, medium-bodied red wine
Winemaking Techniques: Hand-harvested fruit; small-lot fermentation; temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation; aging in French oak barrels (moderate percentage new oak) to enhance structure and complexity
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

Sources:
Hamilton Russell Oregon producer technical information
Zena Crown Vineyard site data
Eola-Amity Hills AVA and Willamette Valley regional viticulture reports