2021 · Volcanique Special-Selection Pinot Noir

Founded in 1996 by Jay Somers, J. Christopher is a small boutique winery at Appassionata Estate in Oregon’s Chehalem Mountains AVA. Owned by German Riesling producer Ernst “Erni” Loosen, it makes limited lots of Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, drawing on its own Appassionata and Medici vineyards as well as close relationships with quality-focused growers across the Northern Willamette Valley. Farming follows organic, biodynamic, LIVE-certified and Salmon Safe principles, with no pesticides or chemical fertilizers used in the estate vineyards. Energy-efficient facilities, solar power, recycling and cork recovery extend the winery’s sustainability efforts. Jay Somers and winemaker Timothy Malone guide a patient, low-intervention, Old-World approach focused on finesse, terroir, texture, balance and ageability rather than sheer fruit weight.