The VGR, or Very Good Red, is 00 Wines’ flagship Willamette Valley Pinot Noir blend, produced using one of the most unusual vinification processes in Oregon: whole berries are placed in 500-litre terra cotta amphorae imported from Tuscany, where they undergo spontaneous fermentation from the inside out with indigenous yeast before the juice is pressed off into French oak barrels for eight months of ageing. This approach, developed in collaboration with French consultant Pierre Millemann, produces Pinot Noir of distinctive textural resonance and mineral precision.

The 2022 VGR draws on sources including the Yamhill-Carlton appellation, where the Shea and Highland vineyards provide some of the fruit, alongside Chehalem Mountains parcels of older ungrafted vines planted in the 1970s. The 2022 vintage in Oregon was defined by a spectacular recovery from devastating spring frosts, with secondary bud growth ultimately delivering a concentrated, high-acid harvest celebrated by producers across the valley as one of exceptional quality. James Suckling’s team described the resulting wine as “a gorgeous nose of hazelnuts, cherries, raspberries, button mushrooms, tea leaves and vanilla bean,” with a vibrant and racy character on the palate.

The 2022 VGR earned 94 points from James Suckling, 93 from the Wine Advocate and 92 from Vinous, three distinct perspectives that collectively confirm the wine’s position as one of the most compelling Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs at its tier. The magnum format is particularly well-suited to the 2022 VGR’s structure, providing the extended ageing potential its prominent tannins require. 00 Wines distributes primarily via mailing list allocation, with limited quantities available through select specialist retailers.

Deep ruby with a highly expressive nose of dark cherry, kirsch, crushed blackberries, violets, sage and seared meat, with a savory undertow. Round and pliant on the palate with juicy natural acidity motivating ripe red berry fruit, a tinge of salty concentration and a spicy, long finish of considerable persistence. Best from 2026 through 2036.

A gorgeous nose of hazelnuts, cherries, raspberries, button mushrooms, tea leaves and vanilla bean. Vibrant and fruit-forward, with zesty and racy acidity and tight-knit tannins. Tight, cool finish. From Yamhill-Carlton including the Shea and Highland vineyards, with Chehalem Mountains fruit. Try after 2026.  — James Suckling

Youthfully flinty to begin, requiring plenty of air to reveal blackberry, rhubarb, cinnamon stick and woodsy undertones. The medium-bodied palate offers expansive, layered flavours, balanced by juicy acidity and a long, nuanced finish.  — Wine Advocate