2024 St. Innocent - Pinot Blanc Freedom Hill (750ml)
From Freedom Hill Vineyard, tucked in the foothills of the Coast Range just 10 miles southwest of Salem, Oregon, this 2024 Pinot Blanc captures the region’s signature balance of bright fruit and poised acidity. Crafted to accentuate texture and ripe fruit notes, it presents a lively, food-friendly profile that pairs beautifully with coastal flavors and sunny orchard fare.
Vineyard & Vintage
Freedom Hill Vineyard sits on old sedimentary soils with a southwest exposure at 520–580 feet. The warm daytime air and cool ocean breezes at night help retain vibrant acidity while guiding ripening, contributing to a wine that stays energetic from nose to finish. Harvest 2024 began with two frost events in April after bud break, impacting the affected vines but allowing unaffected blocks to rebound. The first fruit from the Estate came in September 17, with the last fruit harvested on October 10. Overall yield was moderate, totaling 124 tons and about 6,900 cases produced.
Winemaking & Style
The wine is produced to highlight texture and ripe fruit flavors, with a nuanced aging plan: 24% of the must was fermented in an Acacia cask and 76% in a tank, followed by eight months on the lees. The result is a Pinot Blanc that pairs texture with lively freshness, offering a modern, food-oriented expression of the variety from this Oregon vineyard.
Tasting Notes
- Color: pale yellow-gold
- Nose: yellow fruits and flowers, dominated by peach, yellow plum, daffodils, and a hint of turmeric
- Palate: lively and fresh, with fruit flavors mingling with soft baking spices and melon
- Finish: bright acidity carries through to a lingering peach note
Food Pairings & Serving
- Shellfish, especially preparations that highlight fruit accents
- A fish finished with a fruit salsa
- Savory tarts and trout amandine
Cellaring & Availability
Made to be enjoyed now, this wine will retain its charm for 3–5 years. Bottled in a 750 ml format, it represents a vibrant, versatile option for warm weather dinners or coastal seafood menus.