From: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Taste: On the nose, this Pinot Noir presents bright, rich aromas of raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, and cherry. These fruit notes seamlessly transition to the palate, where soft yet firm tannins frame the fruit flavors, complemented by subtle spices and vanilla. The wine culminates in a balanced, lingering finish.
Pairing: For an Asian-inspired twist, try char siu (Chinese BBQ pork). The sweet and savory glaze plays really well with the wine’s bright red fruit notes, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the pork. A simple shiitake mushroom and scallion stir-fry is another great option—its earthy, umami flavors bring out the subtle spice and fruitiness in the wine. If you’re in the mood for seafood, grilled salmon with a cherry glaze is an easy win. The rich salmon and fruity glaze perfectly echo the wine’s raspberry and cherry notes. And you can’t go wrong with Peking duck and hoisin sauce. The crispy skin and sweet-savory sauce are a match made in heaven with the wine’s vibrant, fruit-forward character. For more classic pairings, herb-crusted pork tenderloin highlights the wine’s juicy fruit flavors while its soft tannins balance the dish beautifully. A beet and goat cheese salad is a fresh, tangy pairing that lets the wine’s minerality and acidity shine. If you’re looking for something savory and comforting, a wild mushroom and Gruyère tart is an elegant way to bring out the wine’s subtle spice and fruit.
Stir-Fried Chicken With Mushrooms and Snow Peas
Recipe from Irene Kuo
Adapted by Melissa Clark, NYT Cooking
About: The winery was founded in the late 1990s as a collaborative venture by Oregon vintners who shared a passion for producing wines that exemplify elegance, balance, and aging potential. Citation Winery is owned by Howard Rossbach, who also founded Firesteed Cellars. Its origins trace back to a commitment to low-yield, high-quality viticulture—a philosophy that underscores every bottle produced. By 2000, Citation had introduced its first vintage, quickly gaining acclaim for its nuanced expression of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
