Abacela named one of the "Hot Small Brands of America"

Wine Business Monthly just published their 7th edition "Hot Small Brands of America" and Abacela was one of ten to make the list for 2009. Three Oregon wineries have made the "Hot Brand" list in previous years: A to Z in 2006, Willamette Valley Vineyards in 2007 and Domaine Drouhin last year. We are fortunate that with more than 6,000 wineries in the U.S. and less than 500 in Oregon that our wineries are so well represented on this prestigious list.

The criteria Wine Business Monthly judged on was, "To identify and recognize small- or medium-sized wineries- none that produced more than 150,000 cases a year." That being the case, all but TWO Oregon wineries qualified (Abacela produces 10,000-12,000 cases annually)! In addition Wine Business Monthly, "...Gravitated toward wineries and brands that represent market trends or innovation, that take a leadership position in their regions, or that make unusual varietals or unexpected wines." This is where Abacela stands out.

Abacela Winery, founded and operated by Earl and Hilda Jones in the mid-nineties, pioneered the planting of Tempranillo and many other varietals in the Umpqua Valley and the United States. Since then, Abacela has established itself as the industry leader for their region, just check out their extensive list of awards and recognition- wines with 95 point scores and gold medals galore.

More important than accolades, is the mission of risk-taking and innovation Abacela exemplifies. It stems from the personalities of the owners, as the Jones' made bold moves of leaving behind established careers to realize their dream of producing an American varietal Tempranillo. They have tried and succeeded with over twenty varietals including the likes of Tempranillo, Syrah, Grenache, Dolcetto, and Port Varietals.

To try the "hot" wines of this "hot" brand, visit their Tasting Room in Roseburg, check out their booth at the upcoming McMinnville Food and Wine (SIP) Festival March 12th-14th, or look for the yellow foiled wines on your local wine shop's shelf.

To read the PDF of the article click here.