We’re offering a limited allocation of the 2022 Shea “Block 23”—a bottling that rarely makes it beyond the winery’s member allocation list. Fewer than 300 cases were produced, and it’s nearly impossible to find through retail channels.
This wine was special-ordered directly from the winery, and we’re offering exclusive savings off the $80.00 SRP for multi-bottle purchases. Decant for 30 to 60 minutes and you’ll be rewarded with a bold, spicy expression that’s already stunning—but will only deepen with time in the cellar.
Planted in 2005 on the West Hill of Shea Vineyard, Block 23 is a 3-acre plot of 100% Pommard Clone Pinot Noir—renowned for its depth, structure, and earthy complexity. When properly aerated at 55 to 60 degrees, the wine bursts with vivid black cherry, ripe plum, and fragrant spice rack notes, all wrapped in impeccably layered, fleshy tannins.
Shea Vineyard is iconic. Often considered the spiritual heart of Oregon Pinot Noir, it’s the fruit source for some of the region’s most celebrated producers. As Wine Bible author Karen MacNeil puts it: “a vineyard that, were this Burgundy centuries ago, would have probably been deemed Grand Cru.”
When Dick Shea planted his first vines in 1980, he couldn’t have known he was laying the foundation for one of Oregon’s most coveted vineyard sites. Back then, Yamhill was an untapped corner of the Willamette Valley, rich in ancient marine soils and blessed with a warm microclimate. Through meticulous farming, Dick and his wife Deirdre quickly earned a reputation for excellence. Esteemed wineries like St. Innocent and Beaux Frères began sourcing fruit from Shea, crafting benchmark wines. Though Dick entered winemaking in 1996, his heart remains in the vineyard—still selling 80% of his fruit to top producers like Ken Wright, Boedecker, and Antica Terra.
Press Accolades:
96 Points, International Wine Report:
" … a delicate bouquet of fresh cranberries, sweet raspberries, dried rose petals and mandarin zest. On the palate, it is lively and dynamic, with a juicy acidity that gives it a refreshing quality across the breadth of the palate. The medium body carries flavors of ripe cherries, hibiscus, and a touch of white pepper, adding a hint of spiciness. The finish is bright and invigorating, with a peppery austerity that lingers forward. Highly recommended."
95 Points, Paul Gregutt's Northwest Wine Guide:
"Bursting open with brambly blackberry fruit, this tightens up in the middle and requires extra breathing time. I like the textural mouthfeel, the weave of lightly composted earth, truffle and soy, the firm and polished tannins."
94 Points, Wine Enthusiast:
" … blackberry and orange-flavored pipe tobacco aromas are a powerful lull … tart red cherry, saline, black tea and molasses flavors. While its acidity is restrained, Block 23's grippy tannins provide some chewy entertainment."
94 Points, James Suckling.com:
"A delicate nose with subtle notes of red berries, dried flowers and tangerine peel. Vivid and agile with juicy and tense acidity and a medium body. It’s bright and refreshing with a vivid finish that shows some peppery austerity. Drink or hold."
