Wine & Spirits – 91 Points
Like the Terres Basses, WillaKenzie’s Aliette differed markedly from its typical profile in 2006. While generally one of the estate’s more delicate wines, in 2006 it has a richness more reminiscent of the Russian River than the Willamette Valley. It leads with scents of wild raspberries, hints of cumin and ginger. The generous black cherry fruit is gripped by chewy, succulent tannins. For roast chicken.
Wine Advocate – 90 Points
the 2006 Pinot Noir Aliete was sourced from a site planted in 1992 to the Pommard clone. It was aged for 14 months in 50% new French oak. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits a bouquet of toast, spice box, and dark fruits. On the palate, it is ripe, friendly, and flavorful with enough structure for balance. It is likely to evolve for 1-2 years and will provide pleasure through 2018. Oct/2009 —Jay S Miller
Willakenzie Estate remains a reliable source for well-made and fairly priced Pinot Noir. Their vineyard-designated wine are held back for an additional year before release so these 2006s are the current offerings. The differences between the various vineyard designates are subtle (each parcel has its own clonal selection, exposure, and age of vines); personally I would like to see a cuvee of the top barrels encompassing all of these sites for purposes of comparison but, alas, they do not make one.
Wine Enthusiast – 89 Points
WillaKenzie’s Aliette Pinot Noir is a pretty, feminine wine, aromatic with baking spices and supple in the mouth. Mixed red fruits suggest wild berries—especially raspberries—and the wine has a stylish elegance through a firm, spicy finish. Dec/2009 —Paul Gregutt
Description
The 2006 WillaKenzie Estate Pinot Noir Aliette is a noteworthy chapter in the winemaking legacy of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Nestled in the heart of the region, WillaKenzie Estate has established itself as a producer of exceptional Pinot Noir, and the Aliette is a standout expression of the estate’s dedication to crafting wines of elegance and complexity.
The Aliette pays homage to Aliette Casteel, a respected figure in the Oregon wine industry and one of the founders of WillaKenzie Estate. This vintage is a tribute to her vision and influence, reflecting the meticulous vineyard practices and winemaking expertise that have become synonymous with WillaKenzie.
In 2006, favorable weather conditions in the Willamette Valley allowed for optimal ripening of Pinot Noir grapes, resulting in wines of great depth and character. The Aliette showcases a beautiful garnet hue and opens with a bouquet of red berries, dark cherries, and subtle floral notes.
On the palate, the wine unfolds with layers of complexity. Ripe raspberry and black cherry flavors are complemented by hints of spice, earth, and a touch of oak. The tannins are supple, contributing to a silky texture that lingers through the graceful finish.
The 2006 Aliette embodies the estate’s commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, allowing the unique terroir of WillaKenzie to shine through. This Pinot Noir, named in honor of a pioneer in Oregon’s wine industry, captures the essence of a remarkable vintage and stands as a testament to WillaKenzie Estate’s dedication to producing wines that reflect the spirit of the land and the people behind its success.
Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s esteemed Willamette Valley, WillaKenzie Estate stands as a testament to the pursuit of excellence in Pinot Noir. Established in 1991 by Bernard and Ronni Lacroute, the estate took its name from the sedimentary soil prevalent in the region, known as Willakenzie soil. This distinct terroir, coupled with a commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, has shaped WillaKenzie Estate into a revered producer of premium wines.
The Lacroutes, drawn to the beauty and potential of the land, recognized that Willamette Valley had the ideal conditions for growing world-class Pinot Noir. They embarked on a mission to create a vineyard that would showcase the nuances of the terroir and the unique characteristics of the grape.
WillaKenzie Estate’s portfolio is led by its flagship Pinot Noir, which is crafted from multiple clones and blocks within the estate vineyards. The estate’s commitment to organic and sustainable farming ensures that the vines thrive in harmony with the land, producing grapes that truly reflect the terroir. The winemaking team, led by Winemaker Erik Kramer, employs a combination of traditional and modern techniques to capture the essence of the fruit while allowing the wines to express the complexity and elegance inherent in WillaKenzie’s terroir.
In addition to Pinot Noir, WillaKenzie Estate also produces other varietals such as Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Each wine is a reflection of the estate’s dedication to precision winemaking and sustainable viticulture.
The legacy of WillaKenzie Estate extends beyond the vineyards. The winery’s commitment to environmental stewardship earned it LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) certification, underscoring its dedication to sustainability. The estate’s picturesque setting, with panoramic views of the Chehalem Mountains, has also made it a sought-after destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a unique and immersive experience.
WillaKenzie Estate’s influence reaches beyond its own vineyards, contributing to the broader Willamette Valley wine community. As a pioneering force in the region, the estate has played a crucial role in elevating the reputation of Oregon wines on the global stage.
In essence, WillaKenzie Estate is a story of passion, vision, and a deep connection to the land. From the meticulous farming practices to the artistry in the cellar, each bottle reflects the dedication of the Lacroute family and the entire team to producing wines that capture the essence of Willamette Valley’s terroir and contribute to the ongoing narrative of Oregon’s winemaking excellence.
Wine Advocate (WA)
Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers
Founded in 1978 by Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate revolutionized the wine industry with its adoption of the 100-point scoring system. It quickly became the most influential source of wine ratings globally, especially for Bordeaux, Rhône, and California wines. Parker’s precise palate and fearless opinions gained him a loyal readership. Today, under the editorial leadership of Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and a team of regional specialists like Joe Czerwinski and William Kelley, the publication continues to deliver deeply researched, blind-tasted reviews with global reach. It remains subscription-based and independent, with over 30,000 wines reviewed each year.
Wine Spectator (WS)
America’s Leading Wine Magazine and Rating Publication
Wine Spectator has been a staple of the wine world since its founding in 1976 by Bob Morrisey. Purchased shortly after by Marvin R. Shanken, the publication grew into the most widely read wine magazine in the U.S. It is known for its blind tastings, detailed vintage charts, consumer-focused reviews, and accessible scoring system. Its famous “Top 100 Wines” list each year influences buying trends across the industry. With a team of dedicated critics covering nearly every wine-producing region on Earth, Wine Spectator remains a trusted name for both collectors and casual drinkers alike, reaching millions in both print and digital formats.
James Suckling (JS)
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James Suckling spent nearly three decades at Wine Spectator, serving as Senior Editor and European Bureau Chief, before launching his own platform in 2010. Renowned for his fast-paced review style, Suckling and his team rate more than 25,000 wines annually from all over the world — with a strong focus on Italy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Chile. His reviews are direct and generous, often accompanied by tasting videos and interviews with winemakers. Suckling also hosts large-scale tasting events around the globe and maintains strong influence on luxury wine buying in Asia, particularly Hong Kong and China.
Wine Enthusiast (WE)
Wine Ratings, Lifestyle, and Buying Guide
Since 1979, Wine Enthusiast has published wine reviews, buying guides, and lifestyle content for both entry-level drinkers and experienced collectors. The magazine evaluates thousands of wines annually using a 100-point scale and offers detailed, easy-to-understand tasting notes. Its team includes regional editors specializing in North America, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere. Wine Enthusiast also provides wine accessories and hosts wine events. It’s known for its strong online presence and educational tone, making it one of the most accessible and widely read wine publications in the United States.
The Wine Independent (TWI)
Subscription-Based, Critically-Researched Wine Analysis
Founded in 2021 by former Wine Advocate editor-in-chief Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and wine photographer Johan Berglund, The Wine Independent emphasizes transparency, independence, and long-form, in-depth critical reviews. It operates on a subscription-only model and maintains no advertising relationships, ensuring its opinions are entirely editorial and not influenced by wineries or sponsors. Their reviews, primarily focused on Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Champagne, feature detailed tasting notes and region-specific insights, and the site aims to be a trusted source for high-end collectors and trade professionals.
Burghound (BH)
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Allen Meadows launched Burghound.com in 2001 after a successful career in finance and years of deep study into the wines of Burgundy. His quarterly reports are considered the gold standard for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, especially from France and Oregon. Burghound is highly regarded for its vintage retrospectives, producer profiles, and strict scoring discipline. Meadows is known for revisiting wines across vintages to track aging and performance, providing valuable data for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW)
Decades of California-Centric Ratings and Commentary
Founded in 1974 by Charles Olken, the Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine was one of the first American wine publications dedicated exclusively to California wines. It employs a star-based rating system rather than numerical scores, offering short, consumer-friendly reviews with strong editorial consistency. It reviews wines monthly and is particularly noted for its fair treatment of smaller wineries, as well as for educational columns that provide insight into varietals, regions, and vintage perspectives.
Wine & Spirits (W&S)
Restaurant Trends, Trade Tastings, and Thoughtful Reviews
Wine & Spirits Magazine has been publishing since 1982 and is known for its blind tasting panels, sustainable producer features, and restaurant-focused wine trends. The magazine’s annual Restaurant Poll surveys top U.S. restaurants for their bestselling wines, offering unique insight into trade buying patterns. It covers both domestic and international regions with tasting panels led by respected critics, and places a strong emphasis on balanced, food-friendly wines. The publication is widely read by industry professionals, sommeliers, and wine educators.
The Tasting Panel (TP)
Trade-Oriented Publication Blending Ratings with Wine Business Insight
The Tasting Panel is a leading beverage trade magazine that reviews wine, spirits, and beer with an eye toward the business side of the industry. Edited by Meridith May, the magazine blends product ratings with distributor insights, marketing trends, and interviews with industry leaders. Its wine scores often appear in distributor portfolios and retail shelf talkers. Known for a broad palate and market-savvy commentary, The Tasting Panel holds a unique position between reviewer and trade magazine.
Vinous (VN)
Modern Multimedia Wine Criticism with a Global Reach
Vinous was launched in 2013 by Antonio Galloni, a former lead critic at The Wine Advocate. The platform combines written reviews, video content, interactive maps, and tasting notes across a global array of regions, from Barolo to California. Vinous has absorbed other major outlets like Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, expanding its reach and credibility. With contributors like Eric Guido, Josh Raynolds, and Neal Martin, Vinous is widely respected by collectors and industry professionals.
Stephen Tanzer (ST)
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Jancis Robinson (JR)
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Jancis Robinson MW is a globally recognized wine critic, journalist, and author based in the UK. She was the first person outside the wine trade to earn the Master of Wine title in 1984. Her Oxford Companion to Wine and World Atlas of Wine (co-authored with Hugh Johnson) are essential references in the industry. Robinson serves as wine advisor to the British royal cellar and is known for her scholarly yet accessible reviews and educational content at JancisRobinson.com.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD)
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Decanter Magazine (D)
British Wine Authority Blending Criticism and Culture
Founded in 1975, Decanter is the UK’s oldest consumer wine publication. It has built a global reputation for thoughtful commentary, extensive blind tastings, and the annual Decanter World Wine Awards, one of the largest and most respected wine competitions. With contributors including Steven Spurrier, Jane Anson, and Andrew Jefford, Decanter provides wine education, interviews, travel features, and expert reviews. Its editorial voice reflects a balance of Old World tradition and New World curiosity.
Jane Anson (JA)
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Jane Anson spent nearly 20 years writing for Decanter Magazine before launching her own subscription-based platform, Inside Bordeaux. She is one of the most respected contemporary voices on Bordeaux, having authored “Inside Bordeaux” — a highly praised and scholarly reference work. Anson is noted for her deep engagement with vineyard practices, producer interviews, and regional changes. She holds a diploma from the Bordeaux Wine School and continues to publish detailed tasting reports and essays for…
Tasting Book ~ (TB)
Global Collector-Sourced Ratings and Reviews
The Tasting Book is an international digital platform that compiles wine reviews from professional critics, sommeliers, collectors, and enthusiasts around the world. Launched in Finland, it has grown to feature tens of thousands of wines with reviews from multiple perspectives. Each entry aggregates community feedback alongside professional commentary. Tasting Book is especially valued for its crowd-sourced balance and the ability to compare opinions across tasters. It is widely used by wine professionals, collectors, and auction houses.
