2022 Titan *NEW RELEASE*
Estate Pinot Noir ∞ Chehalem Mountains AVA
88 cases produced. $52 | MAGNUM $130
For the first time, our flagship Pinot Noir Titan is made of 100% estate fruit! Named for Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D Major “Titan,” the 2022 vintage combines Pommard (22%) with Dijon Clones 115 (39%) and 777 (39%) entirely from vines grown in the volcanic Jory soil of Bells Up’s estate vineyard. The wine aged 12 months in French oak (27% new). The resulting 2022 Titan displays its trademark “wave shape” on the palate, accompanied by elegant, earthy and dark red fruit flavors. Its balanced structure and acidity offer enhanced aging potential over the next seven to 10 years.
The Vineyard
In 2022 we celebrated our first year of “Pinot Independence.” That is, for the first time 100% of the Pinot noir we made was sourced entirely from the Bells Up Estate vineyard, which we began planting in 2014.
The Weather
The 2022 growing season was another roller coaster ride for Willamette Valley growers. A mid-April freeze at budbreak, followed by unseasonably cool and wet May and June weather, delayed harvest into mid-October for the first time in a decade. Fortunately, our vineyard avoided frost damage to the primary buds and the resulting clusters were much larger than normal, with high seed counts per berry. Summer was milder overall, but the warmest and driest September and October on record gave the fruit the opportunity to develop the rich, complex flavors we’ve come to expect from our estate fruit.
The Reviews
Jeremy Young, International Wine Report | [2022 Titan] presents a classic brick red core that lightens toward a delicate pink rim. The bouquet is highly expressive, featuring an intricate layer of dusty rose petals and ripe red plum accented by cedary herbs and a lift of pink peppercorn. On the medium-to-full-bodied palate, the wine shifts toward a deeper profile of blue fruit and damp earth, complemented by savory umami tones and a bright hint of blood orange essence. Structured with moderate-plus acidity, it maintains exceptional focus through a lengthy, evolving finish. Drink 2026-2036. 94 Points.
James Melendez, James the Wine Guy | [2022 Titan’s] nose is giving an impressive character of violets, as well as fresh red rose petal, cherry, as well as wild black bramble fruit, and a subtle bay leaf savoriness. Forward, vibrant acidity, finely knit tannins, framing black cherry, clove, dried herbs, leading to a bright floral finish with a poised balance. 94 Points.
TECHNICAL NOTES