Every May, wine lovers have a reason to look northwest, because it’s National Oregon Wine Month. Organized by the Oregon Wine Board, it’s a statewide celebration of one of America’s most exciting wine regions: Oregon’s Willamette Valley, home to over 500 wineries and some of the finest cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the world. For a full deep-dive into what the month means, the history behind it, and what makes Oregon wine so distinctive, check out our Georgia Crown feature on Oregon Wine Month. Here in Alabama, we’re pouring a producer available to Alabama retailers right now that shows exactly why this region is worth your attention.
Here’s what’s ahead:
• Duck Pond Great Oregon Wine Co. offers a lineup of approachable, well-made Willamette Valley wines
• Duck Pond Chardonnay is crisp and fruit-forward with notes of citrus, apple, and honeysuckle
• Duck Pond Pinot Noir 2024 is light, balanced, and classic Oregon in style
• Duck Pond Pinot Noir Reserve 2022 (Natural Path) adds depth and earthy complexity for the more adventurous palate
• All three Duck Pond wines are Clean Label Certified and made from sustainably farmed grapes
Duck Pond Great Oregon Wine Co., Willamette Valley
Duck Pond Cellars has been crafting wines from Oregon’s Willamette Valley for over 30 years. Now part of the Great Oregon Wine Company, the label continues its commitment to sustainable, transparent, and thoughtfully made wines. All Duck Pond wines are Clean Label Certified and lab-tested for over 200 contaminants, a testament to their dedication to quality and purity in every bottle.
2023 Duck Pond Chardonnay, Willamette Valley
This dry Chardonnay is all about freshness and elegance. Aromas of pineapple, chamomile, and sweet honeysuckle greet you on the nose. On the palate, it’s crisp and bright with notes of lemon, yellow apple, lemon curd, and blanched almonds, all balanced by a healthy, refreshing acidity and a clean, lingering finish. It’s a terrific white for warm evenings, backyard dinners, and anytime you want something vibrant and food-friendly.
Pairings: Grilled shrimp, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, grilled corn
2024 Duck Pond Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
Light-bodied and charming, the 2024 Duck Pond Pinot Noir is an easy-drinking, classic expression of the Willamette Valley. The nose offers cherry blossom, ripe cherry, and fresh mint, leading to a palate of delicate strawberry and red cherry with soft tannins and smooth acidity. It’s accessible, uncomplicated, and perfectly suited for everyday enjoyment.
Pairings: Grilled salmon, roast chicken, wild mushroom risotto, light cheeseboards
2022 Duck Pond Pinot Noir Reserve (Natural Path), Willamette Valley
The Natural Path Reserve steps things up with more depth and presence. Still rooted in Willamette Valley elegance, this wine has a richer structure with notes of ripe plum, red berries, and a touch of earth and spice. The tannins are smooth, the finish is satisfying, and it rewards those who want a little more from their Oregon Pinot.
Pairings: Duck breast, pork tenderloin, mushroom-based dishes, aged cheese
May is the perfect month to pour something from the Pacific Northwest, and Duck Pond makes a compelling case for why Oregon wine deserves a permanent spot on your table. From everyday sipping to special occasion bottles, there’s something in this lineup for every palate and every pour.
