Impressive, well priced wines from Grochau Cellars/GC Wines from Oregon’s Willamette Valley
Website: https://www.grochaucellars.com/
John Grochau started his winery in 2002, initially using his own name, but later switching it to GC Wines because he said people were struggling to pronounce the name (it’s ‘grow-show’). H esays he’s now in the process of switching it back from the two initials, which hasn’t resonated that well with customers. Initially John was a waiter in Portland who caught the wine bug, and then started a negociant operation out of his own cellar, which he now shares with some others.
GC Wines Commuter Cuvée Pinot Noir 2023 Willamette Valley, Oregon
This is made in what John calls a Bourgogne Rouge style, and is very affordable (local price $22). 30% is matured in cement and stainless steel, the rest in used wood. Juicy, supple, elegant and quite fine with lovely red cherry and strawberry fruit, finishing bright and fresh. There’s real elegance and drinkability here. 93/100
GC Wines Convivial Gamay/Pinot Noir 2024 Willamette Valley, Oregon
This is 75% Gamay, 25% Pinot Noir, co-fermented then aged for 5.5 months in cement but also some older oak. Supple, juicy, bright and vivid with nice raspberry and cherry fruit. John describes this as ‘easy but not dumb’, with some grainy detail and a touch of seriousness. 93/100
GC Wines ‘Le Rouleur’ Pinot Noir 2023 Willamette Valley, Oregon
This is a five parcel blend, mainly from volcanic soils. 20% whole bunch, 16 months in barrel, 20% new oak. Textural and refined with a savoury, spicy twist to the ripe cherry and strawberry fruit, with a mineral twist. Real finesse and purity here; juicy and refined. 94/100
GC Wines Carlton Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2023 Yamhill-Carlton, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Marine sedimentary soils, 30% whole bunch, 30% new oak. Rich, ripe and expressive with some spicy detail and lovely grippy tannins, which are quite firm, under the sweet fruit. Juicy and alert with brooding dark fruits. A different style, but really good. 94/100
GC Wines Vivid Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Nice depth here with some mealy spicy richness, and well integrated oak making its presence felt. Citrussy, stony and assertive. 93/100
GC Wines Chardonnay 2023 Willamette Valley, Oregon
Barrel ferment, 15% new oak, 16 months in barrel. Fresh and lemony with brightness and also a nice acid line. Juicy, fine, mineral and expressive. 93/100
