Montinore / Landlines

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
LOCATION : Woodin Creek District
HOURS (as of May 2023): Wed-Thurs, Sun 12-5, Fri-Sat 12-7, closed Mon-Tues
TASTING FEE (as of May 2023): $25 (mixed flight, 5 pours for Montinore flight and 4 for Landlines)

Simply but, it’s a Tale of Two Brands—Montinore and Landlines—from the distant lands of the misty Willamette Valley.

Owned by the Marchesi family (who emigrated from Northern Italy a few generations back) this remarkable winery offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts seeking a blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. The family's commitment to sustainable farming practices is evident; by embracing sustainable vineyard principles, Montinore Estate cultivates an intimate connection between the vineyard, the wine, and the land. This dedication to terroir manifested in 2016, when the Landlines brand emerged, splitting off from Montinore as a testament to the unique character of the family’s newly acquired Tidalstar vineyard. The two brands share a rich heritage and commitment to exceptional organic and biodynamic wines, while distinctively expressing the nuances of their unique terroirs.

The Montinore/Landlines tasting room is the first of my acquaintance in Woodinville to hold both organic and biodynamic certifications. Positioned on “Wine Walk Row” in Woodin Creek, the warm ambiance and knowledgeable staff are instantly likeable, with rustic-yet-elegant décor that echoes the earthy, topographical aesthetic of the bottles themselves.

On offer at the bar are two tasting flights; one showcasing Montinore, the other Landlines. Between the two Landlines is clearly the more premium, but both brands exhibit complex Pinot Noirs well worth sampling. The limited lineup on the Landlines tasting also includes a Chardonnay (the brand doubtlessly has more bottles in its future), while the Montinore offering features more quirky inclusions such as Müller-Thurgau and Gewürztraminer. The friendly staff are well-equipped to guide you through the nuances of each wine, providing insights into the winemaking process and the unique qualities of the biodynamic vineyard.

We don’t often talk about the Willamette Valley of Oregon, where Montinore Estate benefits from a favorable climate and diverse soil types. This region is renowned for producing elegant Pinot Noir, and the Marchesi family takes full advantage of these natural blessings with several offerings of this rarely-seen varietal. You can taste the cool climate and long growing season in such vibrant and balanced bottles as the 2018 Justice Vineyard Pinot Noir and the 2019 Vineyard Verses clonal blend.

Bottles range in price from $30-75 for Montinore and $50-85 for Landlines, with about a dozen total Pinot Noirs on offer. Reservations are not required but may be appreciated for large groups. The tasting room kitchen offers both hot and cold food items, including the standout Wine Nachos (potato chips, manchego and truffle salt), well worth a visit in their own right. There are also alternative beverages available, including a rotating local beer and a few San Pellegrino options. If you’d like to dive into the holistic world of biodynamic winemaking in a pleasant, chic setting, let us know in your pre-tour survey and we will arrange to visit Montinore.

Salut, and enjoy Woodinville!