From: Corvallis, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Taste: In the glass, the wine shows a ruby-red hue with a translucent core. Aromas open with tart red cherry, pomegranate, and blood orange, followed by subtle tones of bay leaf, damp forest, and cracked white pepper. On the palate, the wine is lithe and energetic, with a clear line of acidity anchoring flavors of cranberry, red plum skin, and a touch of rose petal. The texture is vibrant and lightly grippy, thanks to partial whole-cluster fermentation, resulting in a dry, savory finish with gentle minerality and a hint of spice.
Pairing: The Dacha Pinot’s combination of freshness and savory detail makes it particularly well-suited to grilled salmon, roasted duck, or glazed pork belly. A wild mushroom galette or lentils with caramelized fennel also work well, emphasizing the wine’s earthy and floral tones.
About: Dacha Wines operates out of Corvallis, Oregon, a town better known for its agricultural university and rural quiet than for wine, but increasingly home to some of the Willamette Valley’s most exciting under-the-radar producers. The project is led by Isabel, who produces small lots of Pinot Noir and other regional varieties with a strong emphasis on minimal intervention, native fermentation, and intuitive cellar work. Although still young, the winery has already garnered attention for its transparent, site-driven wines that reflect a sense of playfulness without compromising rigor.