The 2024 Field & Flight Pinot Noir marks a fascinating chapter for Quails’ Gate, a rare chance to see this iconic BC winery craft Pinot Noir from Oregon-grown fruit, brought north through BC’s one-time “Crafted in BC” exception following devastating crop losses in 2024. Instead of a stopgap measure, the team turned it into an opportunity: a cool-climate, aviation-themed Pinot Noir that delivers a fresh, polished, terroir-driven expression just in time for holiday sipping.
If you would like to learn more about the Oregon Wine Trail, please see Travelling through Oregon Wine Country.
Winemaker Profile & Style
According to Quails’ Gate, the wine was crafted to highlight lush aromatics and a complex palate, with a savoury finish that Oregon Pinot Noir is known for. The result is a wine that feels thoughtful rather than forced—easy to enjoy now, but composed enough to reward a slower pace.
Tech Specs
- Vintage: 2024
- Origin: Farmed in Oregon, USA
- Alcohol: 14%
- pH: 3.6
- TA: 6.1 g/L
- Residual Sugar: 0.7 g/L
The 2024 Field & Flight Pinot Noir is built around fruit sourced from Oregon’s Willamette Valley—a region celebrated for its cool-climate finesse and Burgundian structure. With BC still recovering from recent winter damage and lower estate yields, leveraging top-quality Oregon Pinot has allowed Quails’ Gate to maintain both character and consistency. It’s a rare look at how cross-border sourcing can benefit Canadian producers while staying true to the winery’s stylistic vision.
Tasting Notes
This Oregon-grown Pinot Noir leads with a lifted, earthy forest-floor before snapping into focus with red-fruit energy. Bright flavours of red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry are layered with cool florality and a flicker of spice. The palate is sleek and polished, driven by refreshing medium acidity and finely grained, well-integrated tannins that keep everything moving. The finish is generous, vibrant, and mouthwatering. 91 Points.
Food Pairing
An easy-drinking Pinot, true to its cool-climate roots, that shines at the table. Pair it with mushroom risotto, roast poultry, cherry-accented dishes, or simply a bowl of fresh cherries and a quiet evening in. Don’t overthink it, this is a wine built for uncomplicated pleasure.
Availability & Price
This wine is newly available at BC Liquor Stores ($2 off until December 27th, regularly $22.99)