Tony Soter established his own namesake winery, Soter Vineyards in the Yamhill-Carlton region of Willamette Valley in 1997. He owns a 240-acre parcel of land with 30 acres planted to Pinot Noir and 2 acres of Chardonnay, which are dedicated to his sparkling wines. Tony Soter wants his wines to be a “moving experience with a sense of wow and awe,” To do this he uses less new oak. Tony is a mature winemaker who “creates nuance’s in his wines that are expressive of their origin” with a respectful approach to farming and the land. He doesn’t embrace the idea that a wine makes itself, although he is a minimalist who is committed to creating an “authentic style” with wines that are “elegant and aromatic.”

Tony Soter has a charismatic attitude toward everything he touches, especially his approach toward winemaking. This is the third release of the Soter Estates Brut Reserve composed of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay aged on the lees for three years. This sparkling wine from Willamette Valley is his nod to méthode traditionnelle Champagne. This pale yellow sparkler has a vibrant bead of fine bubbles leading to artful notes of patisserie and grated almonds. Within are creamy, ripe elements of honeycomb, yellow citrus, white peach and lemon oil with minerality and a faint salinity. This wine maintains finesse and balance throughout its lengthy finish. It captivates both the intellect and the senses, showcasing Tony Soter’s dedication to crafting superlative sparkling wines from Willamette Valley.

By W Peter Hoyne