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2023 Ovum “EZY TGR” Chillable Red Table Wine, Oregon
(Carefully curated notes below are taken from the producer/importer’s info and vintage sheet)
Varietal Composition: 50% Early Muscat + 50% co-fermented Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Mencía
Location: Oregon — Cabernet Sauvignon from the Columbia Gorge AVA; Early Muscat from the Willamette Valley
Specialty Factor: Palhete-inspired, certified-organic, chillable red that blends white and red varieties; spontaneous ferment; small production
Cellar Aging: Drink now for peak freshness; enjoy through 2026
A Few More Details
Certified-organic fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon from a certified-organic vineyard planted in 1983 (Columbia Gorge). Early Muscat grown on Missoula Flood deposits in the heart of Willamette Valley. Own-rooted vines in volcanic soils at 300–1,000 ft elevation. Spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel; co-ferment of the red varieties for juicy, low-tannin texture; bottled for immediate, joyful drinking (serve lightly chilled).
Tasting Notes
Bright ruby with a playful, lightly hazy hue. Lifted aromatics of red Jolly Rancher, pomegranate, and Bing cherry meet floral Muscat tones, bay leaf, and a subtle beetroot earthiness. Light to medium-bodied and zippy, with crunchy red fruit, a granitic-like mineral snap, and a dry, refreshing finish that begs for another chilled pour.
Food Pairing Suggestions!
Picnic & Snacky: Charcuterie with cornichons; prosciutto-wrapped melon; marinated olives
Seafood & Grilled: Cedar-plank salmon; tuna niçoise; shrimp skewers with herbs
Spice-Friendly: Tacos al pastor; Korean BBQ chicken; za’atar-roasted cauliflower
Veg-Forward: Beet and goat cheese salad; grilled halloumi with peppers; mushroom shawarma
About
EZY TGR (“Easy Tiger”) is the playful side project from the team behind Ovum, known for minimal-intervention, site-expressive Oregon wines. This chillable red channels Portugal’s palhete tradition—blending white and red grapes for a vividly aromatic, irresistibly drinkable, low-tannin red built for the fridge and the patio.
2019 Phelps Creek Vineyards “Cuvée Alexandrine” Pinot Noir, Columbia Gorge, USA
(Carefully curated notes below are taken from the producer’s materials and vintage information)
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Location: Columbia Gorge AVA, Oregon, USA
Specialty Factor: Limited barrel selection crafted by Burgundian winemaker Alexandrine Roy, highlighting native-yeast ferments and estate terroir expression
Cellar Aging: Drink now or cellar through 2029–2031 for additional tertiary complexity
A Few More Details
Hand-harvested estate fruit from a range of Pinot Noir clones grown on hillside vineyards above the Columbia River. Native-yeast fermentations and gentle handling preserve red-fruit purity and fine structure. The final blend represents the best barrels of the vintage, chosen for their harmony, elegance, and ability to age. French oak élevage adds subtle layers of spice and texture while allowing the terroir to shine.
Tasting Notes
Brilliant ruby in color. The nose opens with wild cherry, raspberry, and rose petal, layered with hints of forest floor, orange peel, and subtle spice. The palate is refined and silken, showing vibrant red fruit, savory undertones, and a mineral edge. Fine tannins and bright acidity give length and precision, finishing with elegance and Burgundian finesse.
Food Pairing Suggestions!
Poultry & Game Birds: Roast duck with cherry jus; herb-roasted chicken; pheasant with mushrooms
Seafood: Seared salmon with fennel and citrus; tuna niçoise
Vegetarian: Wild mushroom risotto; beetroot and goat cheese tart; lentils with thyme and roasted carrots
Cheese: Brie, Camembert, Tomme, or aged Gruyère
About
Phelps Creek Vineyards is located on the high slopes above Hood River in Oregon’s Columbia Gorge. The Cuvée Alexandrine is crafted in partnership with Burgundian winemaker Alexandrine Roy, who selects the finest barrels each vintage to create a Pinot Noir that combines Old World grace with the unique energy of the Gorge.
West Seattle Wine Cellars 