Cristom’s Mt. Jefferson Cuvée, first released in 1994, has become one of Oregon’s most iconic Pinot Noirs, assembled each year from multiple tastings of every barrel to capture the breadth of the Eola–Amity Hills. The 2023 vintage draws 77% estate fruit from Cristom’s four original vineyards—Paul Gerrie, Eileen, Louise, and Jessie—augmented by select parcels from trusted neighbors across 11 sites in total. These vineyards are planted in the volcanic basalts that define the appellation, lending a dark, iron-rich minerality, unique among the world’s major Pinot Noir regions. The Eola–Amity Hills are also shaped by cool Pacific Ocean winds funneled through the Van Duzer Corridor just to its west, ensuring balanced ripening and preserving natural acidity. Cristom farms its vines biodynamically, emphasizing soil vitality and biodiversity, and the fruit is harvested entirely by hand. The winemaking team, led by Daniel Estrin—whose career included formative work at Littorai, Domaine de la Vougeraie, and Bodega Chacra—maintains Cristom’s traditional approach: 45% whole-cluster fermentation, native yeasts, no fining or filtration, and élevage for 11 months on the lees in French oak barrels, 26% of which are new. The wine shows a fresh, savory profile with vibrant acidity: aromas of blackberry bramble, huckleberry, and dark cherry mingle with forest floor, curry leaf, and rose hip, accented by dried orange peel and baking spice. The palate shows balanced fruit and acidity with fine tannins, finishing with a savory, mineral character that reflects the volcanic soils and cool winds of the Eola–Amity Hills. It is ready to drink now but has the structure to age for several years. Classic pairings include salmon, duck, or mushroom dishes that echo the wine’s earthy profile.