Benmar Springbok Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Sourced from select sites in the Yamhill-Carlton district of the Willamette Valley, near notable vineyards in the region.
- Brings together the district’s signature dark fruit, earthy spice, and supple texture, reflecting the pedigree of the surrounding fruit sources.
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Elaboration: The grapes were carefully destemmed and underwent a gentle cold soak to extract color and aromatics, then fermented in small, temperature-controlled tanks to preserve nuance and depth. The wine was aged for 15 months in 40% new French oak barrels, building layers of complexity and finesse.
Tasting Notes: Opens with ripe cherry, wild raspberry, blueberry, and violet, layered with subtle notes of forest floor, anise, and baking spice. On the palate, silky tannins frame a core of red fruits, blackberry, and dark plum, accented by savory umami and mineral lift. Bright acidity and a long, elegant finish round out a balanced expression of Yamhill-Carlton terroir.
PRESS
2022 – 94 Decanter
2023 – 94 Decanter
2024 – 94 Decanter | 91 Wine Enthusiast
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Greg Bybee has over fourteen years of experience in the wine industry, focusing on the Pacific Northwest. He discovered his passion for wine in 2008 while working at Rochioli Vineyards, where he learned to craft Pinot Noir.
As a founding member and curator for Vivino, he gained insights into what wine lovers seek from Oregon wines, which inspired his winemaking journey.
He named his venture “Benmar” after his children, Benben and Marecca, and his wife, Jen, whose photography appears on the labels. Together, they have introduced Benmar wines to the world.