J.C. Somers "Joie De Chien" Dundee Hills Pinot Noir 2021

Vin Chicago: 91+ Points

(1/2025) Oregon winemaker Jay Somers recently launched this new project after moving on from his previous winery, J. Christopher. Like many Oregon bottlers, Jay primarily crafts single vineyard Pinot Noirs from some of the best sites in the Willamette Valley. Still, his second label, 'Joie de Chien,' is a serious discovery. Built from Dundee Hills fruit, this impressive Pinot gives classic cherry, including black cherry, flavors with hints of cassis, flowers, and Burgundy-like earth. It's one of the better sub-$25 American Pinot Noirs we've tasted in a minute.