Luminous Hills is dramatically tucked into a steep, forested slope on the eastern side of Oregon’s coastal range and is owned by Byron Dooley. Interestingly it transitions from volcanic soils, primarily Jory, on top, to eroded marine sedimentary rock, Willakenzie and Peavine, on the bottom. Its high elevation preserves acidity and makes it our latest ripening site, while its steep slopes provide excellent exposure to the sun. Andrew discovered the property while doing pruning weights for Jessica Cortell in 2012 and was stunned by the situation and beauty of the site.
The 2019 Luminous Hills, generally flamboyant, expresses itself in a no less reserved way, but its fruit is lithe wild strawberry laced with green peppercorn and stone, less tropical and more mountainous than previous vintages. Filigreed tannins stretch across the palate and melt away as currants, clove and blood orange drive a soaring finish. Two hundred eleven cases produced.
94 points, "The 2019 Pinot Noir Luminous Hills Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and intense aromas of cranberries and blueberries, Angostura bitters, tea leaves, earth and woodsmoke. The palate is uplifted and silky, with intense, perfumed flavors and an ethereal finish. It offers power, structure and broody fruits in a very approachable frame." - Wine Advocate