Quiet, resolute, and passionate about Pinot Noir, Bill Stoller grew up near Yamhill Valley, Oregon spending his childhood on his family’s turkey farm. He left to pursue a successful career as founder and vice chairman of the employment staffing firm Express Employment Professionals (EEP) and CEO and founder of Xenium. Realizing the unique potential of Oregon’s land, he returned to his roots in 1993 as co-owner of the famed Chehalem Winery and later became the sole owner in 2018. Stoller Family Estate rests at an elevation of 220 - 600 feet with 225 acres under vine. Melissa Burr came on board in 2003 as Stoller’s first dedicated winemaker and is currently the vice president of winemaking.

Named after Bill Stoller's aunt, this Pinot Noir was planted in 1997 and is composed of Wadenswil clones sourced from two separate blocks of estate vineyards in the Dundee Hills. The 2022 Stoller Helen’s Vineyard Pinot Noir opens with a graceful and lifted aromatic profile, presenting a spectrum of tart red fruit. Tart cherry and maraschino cherry form the core that is bright and clean while subtle raspberry adds gentle juiciness. The nose is precise and understated, showing quiet elegance rather than overt power.

On the palate, the wine’s controlled acidity gives it remarkable poise. There’s tension, but it’s beautifully measured enough to keep the wine lively without sacrificing smoothness or approachability. The mid-palate is especially impressive: silky, well integrated, and carrying the fruit with soft persistence that slowly expands. A fine thread of minerality lifts the finish.

The length is one of its most compelling qualities. The wine tapers off slowly, leaving behind lingering impressions of bright cherry, raspberry, and a hint of floral lift. This is a Pinot Noir defined by finesse and balance, expressive yet restrained, delicate yet confident.

By Stephen Kwolek