Ken Wright Pinot Noir "Shea Vineyard" 2023
(Yamhill-Carlton, Willamette Valley, Oregon) - [JD 96+] [WS 94, #37 of '25] [WE 94]

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About the Winery:
Located in rural Carlton, Oregon, Ken Wright Cellars is devoted to showcasing the inherent quality of selected vineyard sites. With a clarity and breadth that is unequaled by other varieties, the people at Ken Wright cellars believe Pinot noir best expresses the character of these sites. Rather than stamping wine with a varietal trademark, they see Pinot noir as a vehicle for conveying the aroma, flavor and texture of the location in which it is grown.

About this Wine:

AVA: Yamhill-Carlton

Year Planted: Original planting 1989

Clones: Pommard, Wadenswil,114

Elevation & Aspect:  540 ft- 450 ft Elevation on the East Hill

Tasting Notes: Savory, floral and spice focused—Inviting Honeycrisp apple, raspberry and tart cherry dance with delicious baking spices of cinnamon, cardamom and anise. Beautifully balanced palate with a warm milk-chocolate finish. 

Ratings & Reviews

96+ Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2023 Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard, from the eastern hillside of this expansive site, pours a vibrant ruby hue and offers a stunning bouquet of wild raspberries, blue flowers, violets, rocky earth, and tea leaves. Medium-bodied, with a mineral texture and an expansive feel, it’s one of the best Shea Vineyards I have tasted for this report. Long and elegant, this will drink beautifully over the next 15 years." - Audrey Frick (Aug 2025)

94 Points, Rank #37 Top 100 of 2025 - Wine Spectator:
"Precise and detailed, with a slightly brooding core that propels its dark cherry and raspberry flavors, which are accented by blood orange and spiced tea tones as this gathers tension and tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2035. 1,330 cases made." - Tim Fish (Sep 2025)

94 Points & Editor's Choice - Wine Enthusiast:
"If you have ever traipsed around a wetland area, you may know the sweet-scented joy of the pink-hued swamp rose. Imagine your favorite garden rose's scent multiplied by ten. This is the first wine I've ever associated with that lovely perfume. Additional aromas of dark raspberries and red figs lead to flavors of red raspberries, cranberries, dried blueberries and lemon zest. All that fruit is ably backed by bright acidity and tannins with a mild grip." - Michael Alberty (Dec 2025)