Phylicia StitzelNestled in the rolling hills of Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton AVA, Ghost Hill Cellars is a small, family-run winery with a rich history, a captivating story, and a distinctive take on Pinot Noir. While Oregon is widely celebrated for its world-class Pinot Noir, Ghost Hill Cellars takes the varietal to new heights with their Pinot Noir Blanc – a unique wine that is as intriguing as the ghostly legend behind the winery itself.
The Haunted Legacy of Ghost Hill Cellars
The story of Ghost Hill Cellars begins on a 234-acre estate that has been in the Bayliss family for over a century. The land, located near the town of Carlton, was originally a dairy farm before becoming the site for one of the most unique wineries in the region. But the farm isn’t just known for its fertile soil; it also comes with an eerie tale.
Local legend tells of a miner who returned to Ghost Hill in the late 1800s with gold dust after a successful prospecting trip. Unfortunately, he was ambushed and murdered near the farm. His ghost is said to linger, haunting the property in search of his lost treasure. The Bayliss family leaned into this haunting tale, naming their winery “Ghost Hill Cellars” as a nod to the spectral miner and the unique spirit of their land.
The estate’s prized 16-acre Bayliss-Bower Vineyard was planted in 1999 with Pinot Noir, and the winery has since developed a reputation for producing wines that reflect the character of the land – rich, complex, and a little mysterious.
What Is Pinot Noir Blanc?
Pinot Noir Blanc is a rare and enchanting expression of the Pinot Noir grape. Unlike traditional Pinot Noir, which is a red wine, Pinot Noir Blanc is made by pressing the grapes gently and removing the skins quickly after harvest. Since the pigment of the wine comes from the grape skins, this process results in a white wine with just the faintest blush of pink – like the first rays of dawn breaking over Ghost Hill’s vineyard.
At Ghost Hill Cellars, their Pinot Noir Blanc is a revelation. The wine retains the elegant, bright acidity and subtle red fruit notes of Pinot Noir but is transformed into something wholly unique. With aromas of stone fruit, citrus blossoms, and a hint of wild strawberry, it’s crisp, clean, and versatile – the perfect balance of structure and freshness.
Food Pairings for Ghost Hill Cellars Pinot Noir Blanc
Pairing Pinot Noir Blanc with food is a delightful exploration of flavors. Thanks to its vibrant acidity and delicate fruit profile, it pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some standout options:
- Seafood and Shellfish: The wine’s brightness complements the briny sweetness of oysters, crab, or seared scallops. Try it with a classic Oregon Dungeness crab for a truly local experience.
- Charcuterie and Soft Cheeses: Pinot Noir Blanc’s acidity cuts through the richness of creamy cheeses like brie or camembert and pairs beautifully with cured meats like prosciutto.
- Poultry and Pork: Its subtle fruit notes enhance dishes like roasted chicken with herbs or grilled pork tenderloin with a peach glaze.
- Vegetarian Fare: For plant-based pairings, opt for roasted vegetable dishes, such as squash or asparagus, or lighter pasta with lemon-butter sauces.
- Spicy Asian Cuisine: Surprisingly, this wine also holds its own with spicy dishes like Thai green curry or sushi with wasabi, offering a cooling counterpoint to the heat.
Why Pinot Noir Blanc Deserves a Spot in Your Glass
Ghost Hill Cellars’ Pinot Noir Blanc stands out not just for its unique production method but also for its rarity. Only a handful of wineries in Oregon produce Pinot Noir Blanc, making it a must-try for wine enthusiasts. It offers the opportunity to explore Pinot Noir in an entirely different light – quite literally, as its pale golden hue glimmers like a treasure waiting to be uncovered.
Drinking this wine is more than just an experience for the palate; it’s a journey through Oregon’s rich wine history and the spectral stories that make the state so enchanting. Whether you’re sipping it on Ghost Hill’s scenic patio overlooking the vineyard or sharing a bottle at home with friends, the Pinot Noir Blanc invites you to savor its story and its spirit.
Visiting Ghost Hill Cellars
If you’re planning a trip to Oregon wine country, a visit to Ghost Hill Cellars is a must. The winery’s rustic charm and family-run atmosphere make it a welcoming destination for wine lovers. You might even catch a glimpse of the spectral miner as you toast to his enduring legend.
From its haunting origins to its exquisite Pinot Noir Blanc, Ghost Hill Cellars is a winery that captures the essence of Oregon – its beauty, its history, and its mystery. So, pour yourself a glass, pair it with something delicious, and raise a toast to the ghost that started it all.
