A to Z Wineworks was started in 2002 by four friends, Oregon wine industry veterans, Deb Hatcher (Eyrie), Bill Hatcher (Domaine Drouhin Oregon), Sam Tannahill (Archery Summit) and Cheryl Francis (Chehalem). The two couples worked in the Hatcher's kitchen to build the original blend honored by Food & Wine magazine as the Best American Pinot Noir under $20. Recognition for their A to Z wines with dependable quality and great value continued and production grew. In 2006, the group welcomed another Oregon wine veteran, Michael Davies, as winemaker, and partnered with Gregg Popovich (Coach of the San Antonio Spurs) to buy REX HILL Vineyards and Winery (established in 1982). A to Z has worked with more than 100 vineyards across the state always offering assistance for sustainability certification that the group expects to be achieved within three years of partnering. Today, A to Z has two viticulturists on staff and uses biodynamic principles to farm all owned or long-leased vineyards. Diverse sourcing across the state mitigates regional weather difficulties and adds complexity and depth to the one wine of each variety that is blended in any vintage. Additionally, A to Z has more collective Oregon winemaking experience than any other winery, experience that can make a difference in difficult vintages. A to Z remains true to the dual mission of offering Aristocratic Wines at Democratic Prices blending one cuvee each vintage of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris that deliver the Essence of Oregon. A commitment to excellence is matched by a belief in fair value and sustainability in business as well as farming and a drive to offer the highest quality for the best value.
TASTING NOTES
The 2012 A to Z Pinot Noir invites with vibrant aromas of juicy berries, cherries, lavender and violets, evolving to clove, game, smoke and cherry tobacco. A succulent, focused attack has flavors of blue and red fruits, flowers and earth, then deepens with hints of mocha, gingerbread, green tea and cacao. A very ripe tannic structure is balanced by perfect acidity, giving shape and elegance to the concentration of lush fruit. A beautiful, complex, forward wine results, walking a tightrope between richness and elegance. Built for midterm aging, the captivating A to Z Pinot Noir once again sets the standard for the superior 2012 Pinot Noir vintage in Oregon.
FOOD PAIRING
A pretty, versatile wine that will pair neatly with most proteins cooked in a wide variety of styles, as well as earthy, and rustic vegetables, and bright-red to black fruits like cherry, cranberry, or plum. SPECIFIC:
Fuller-bodied seafood like Salmon, Halibut, or Trout
All manner of pork
Grilled meats and vegetables from chicken to venison
Braised meats and stews
Root vegetables and mushrooms, especially mushrooms
Learn to like duck. Duck is fantastic with Pinot Noir. Make a cherry gastrique and add it to the duck. You will become the food and wine hero of the universe.
