By Jane Hasenmueller
from Salem Monthly, Section Wine
Posted on Thu Jul 31, 2008 at 08:15:30 PM PDT
Arriving at Redhawk Winery is nearly as much fun as exploring their tasting room. As you pull onto the property through the gorgeous vineyard, enjoy sweeping views of the West Salem hills. Then enter the tasting room under the canopy of a tropical kiwi vine.
Redhawk's tasting room is a new addition to the original winery, which was founded in 1988 and purchased by the Pataccoli family in 2005. The room, lined with windows, offers an incredible view of the Willamette Valley, with Mt. Hood and Jefferson visible even on a hazy day. Outside the windows, hummingbird feeders buzz with activity, delighting tasters.
Wine lovers also will be delighted with the wine selection and variety of tasting options found at Redhawk. The 2007 estate-grown Riesling, though not as sweet as some might prefer, has a light feel and taste, with hints of kiwi and lemon. The 2006 Chardonnay and the 2006 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay are both estate-grown. The Barrel Fermented offers a strong woody flavor, but a hint of vanilla helps balance this out.
The tasting menu offers seven reds, five of which are Pinot Noir, the wine Willamette Valley does best. The 2007 Pinot Noir Rose` has a strong alcohol beginning, but it finishes crisp and clean with a hint of strawberry. Redhawk's cleverly named Grateful Red is a dry, crisp wine, with an overwhelming alcohol beginning, but is saved by its rich cherry flavor.
The pricier reds begin with the $22 Pinot Noir Estate, a fuller red with a fruity finish and medium body. This versatile wine would pair well with almost any meal. The 2006 Pinot Noir Vintner's Reserve at $30 is the winery's most well-rounded, full-bodied offering, with a hint of black cherry and a smoky finish. Last of the Pinot Noirs is the 2006 Pataccoli Family Vineyard. It offers a definite cranberry flavor and a hint of spice, with a robust finish.
The last two offerings are the 2004 Redhawk Red, a good, inexpensive table wine with strong chocolate overtones and a hint of fruit. The winery suggests pairing this offering with heavy meats and stews. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, a mix of grapes from that region, is full bodied and offers earthy undertones. It is an exceptional wine for a low price, coming in at only $14.