Fossil & Fawn Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2023

Vin Chicago: 91 Points

(7/2025) Fossil & Fawn is a small-batch producer (about 5,000 cases annual production) in Oregon's Willamette Valley started in 2011 by business-and-life partners Jenny Mosbacher and Jim Fischer. Their wines are uniquely expressive and deliciously approachable. This gorgeous 2023 Pinot Noir was bottled earlier this year, and sourced from vines ranging in age from 20 to 50 years old across various sub-AVA's in the Willamette Valley. It is aged in predominantly neutral French oak barrels for about a year, allowing for the pure notes of macerated cherries and fresh raspberries to shine with a subtle layer of cola and baking spices. A touch of earthiness adds complexity and makes for a great pairing with grilled salmon and wild mushroom risotto.