Wine Club: March 2026
When most think Oregon and Wine, they think one grape: Pinot Noir. And they will overwhelmingly associate it with one region: Willamette Valley. Oregon and the Willamette Valley are more linked-at-the hip with Pinot Noir than even Burgundy, which is almost as well known for its Chardonnay as its world-class Pinot. As always though, there’s far more to a region than what meets the eye, so this month we explore the whole of Oregon without any varietal Pinot Noir’s crashing the party (there is a gentle kiss of Pinot in the red blend, sue me). Three wines come from the vast Willamette Valley: both Bow & Arrow selections and the St. Innocent Chardonnay. The fourth wine, Division Wine Co’s ‘Gamine’ Syrah comes from the Applegate Valley waaaay down on the border with California.
Applegate Valley AVA, which is nested within the larger Rogue Valley AVA, was established in 2000 to highlight the Bordeaux (Cab, Merlot) and Rhone (Syrah, Grenache) varieties that thrive in the distinct climate and terroir of this small valley. Sheltered from the cooling influence of the Pacific by the Siskiyou Mountains, this region is much warmer and drier than most of Oregon’s wine areas, especially optimal for the likes of Syrah and Grenache. This 100% Syrah comes from the tiny Mae’s Vineyard - with loamy clay soil over a slab of granite - which benefits from the sun on its southeast facing slope. Syrah thrives here with the abundance of sun and granite reminiscent of the Northern Rhone. This is a region we’re interested in exploring more if we’re able to suss up more wines from this quiet corner of Oregon.
The other red and one of the whites both come from Bow & Arrow Winery in the Willamette Valley. These ‘Time Machine’ blends are designed to be easy-going and refreshing options, which we certainly agree with as they’re absolutely delightful. Bow & Arrow treads a quite different Willamette-path than almost every other winery in the region: they use the Loire Valley as inspiration instead of Burgundy. Chenin Blanc, Melon Blan, Gamay, Cabernet Franc… they work with all of them to make a range of wines oozing with character.
The final wine, a Chardonnay, is the most classic of the bunch. St. Innocent has long been one of the premier Pinot Noir producers in Willamette and this Chardonnay certainly doesn’t disappoint. Austere and Burgundian, this is reminiscent of a quality Cotes du Beaune. This ‘Village Cuvee’ is also a very limited wine and we were lucky enough to nab ~20% of all that came into the state! If you enjoy this one and want more, speak up quick because we’ll only have about a case left over!
St. Innocent 'Village Cuvee'
Willamette Valley, Oregon
The Grapes
100% Chardonnay - Organic
Tasting Notes
Aromas of meyer lemon, pear, yellow apple and blossom. Quince, slate, pineapple and more apples on the palate with chill acidity. Long, floral finish.
Pairing Suggestions
This rich and creamy pesto chicken pasta recipe would be a hit.
Can it Age?
Yes, up to five years.
Bow & Arrow 'Time Machine' White
Willamette, Oregon
The Grapes
Chenin Blanc, Melon Blanc, Chardonnay - Organic
Tasting Notes
Exploding with citrus and zippy green apple with slate, geranium, and other crushed flowers. Mouthwatering acid and more citrusy lemon and lime on the palate.
Pairing Suggestions
Vibrant seared tuna salad pairs perfectly with the driving acidity in this wine.
Can it Age?
Not recommended.
Bow & Arrow 'Time Machine' Red
Willamette Valley, Oregon
The Grapes
Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir - Organic
Tasting Notes
Plush red fruit, cherries, strawberries, raspberries with a hint of violet and wet earth. Very balanced tannin and acid with a bright, medium body. If you prefer, try chilling a touch before opening!
Pairing Suggestions
Classic French roast chicken.
Can it Age?
Drink Now!
Division Wine Co. 'Gamine' Syrah
Applegate Valley, Oregon
The Grapes
100% Syrah - Organic
Tasting Notes
Fresh blackberries and plums, rich candied cherry, loads of floral and herb notes, rose, thyme, basil, licorice and a touch of spice from French oak. On the palate some meaty, gamey aromas come forward with perfectly balanced tannin and acid.
Pairing Suggestions
Juniper crusted venison would work wonders with the secondary and tertiary aromas of the Syrah.
Can it Age?
Up to ten years.
