Southern Oregon Wine Blog

Britt Receives $125k Grant

2012-02-07T20:38:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the Britt Festivals! Last year's expansion of Southern Oregon wines by keg and bottle was a fantastic partnership and way to promote local wines. Cheers to nights on the Hill!

Britt Festivals is pleased to announce the receipt of a $125,000 Capacity Building Grant from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.

Britt Executive Director Donna Briggs says, "Working with the PGA in this grant-writing process has been an incredible experience. The Foundation's guidance and support is unparalleled. I am looking forward to a mutually beneficial partnership as the exciting capacity building initiatives unfold."

The PGA Grant Award will be used for Britt hill improvements, institutional marketing, and a renewed focus on our planned giving program. This grant award is a significant step for Britt to build a more sustainable future. Through funding Britt hill improvements, it helps continue the organization's efforts to improve the experience for concertgoers. Revitalizing the planned giving program helps Britt increase its contributed revenue stream. This award will also support increased investment in Britt's charitable core and mission, the Classical Festival and education programs.

Briggs says, "We also continue to pursue other grants to support our ongoing activities. There is still much work to do to ensure Britt's continued survival. Given the amazing community we live in, we are confident that individuals, businesses and institutions will embrace our vision for the next 50 years."

The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation's Arts and Culture Program contributes to the health and vibrancy of cities and towns throughout the Pacific Northwest by nurturing artistic expression and promoting critical thinking through the creation and presentation of compelling artistic programs. The Foundation also helps cultural organizations improve their financial performance through a range of capacity building efforts.

Britt Festivals invites audiences and artists to celebrate the joy of live performance, the power of community, and the magic of the Britt Experience. Through on-going education and audience development programs, Britt educates new generations of listeners, helping them discover the wonder of music and performance. In addition to presenting concerts, Britt Festivals maintains a formal education program through the Britt Institute. Established in 1985, the Britt Institute hosts a wide variety of learning opportunities through a multi-faceted approach of summer camps, workshops, grade school programs and adult learning opportunities.

Taste them all and vote for your favorite 'Greatest of the Grape'

2012-02-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Oregon's oldest wine and food pairing event - the Greatest of the Grape on March 3rd from 7-11 pm at Seven Feathers Casino & Resort. Twenty-eight wineries will showcase their best wine professionally paired with the perfect appetizer by fourteen Southern Oregon restaurants. Vote for the People's Choice - Greatest of the Grape wine and wine & food pairing. Results of the professional judging will be revealed after you sip, taste, dance and spin the Wheel of Wine!

Taste them all and vote for your favorite from:

Abacela
Anindor Vineyards
Bradley Vineyards
Brandborg Winery
Becker Vineyard
Chateau Lorane
Chateau Nonchalant Vineyards
Daisy Creek Vineyard
Delfino Vineyards
Foris Vineyards & Winery
Glaser Estate
Girardet
HV Cellars
Henry Estate Winery
HillCrest Winery & Distillery
LaBrasseur Vineyard
MarshAnne Landing
Melrose Vineyards
Misty Oaks Vineyard
Pyrenees Winery & Cellars
River's Edge
RoxyAnn Winery
Sienna Ridge Estate
Spangler Vineyards
TeSoAria Vineyard & Winery
Triple Oak Vineyard
Trium Winery
Troon Vineyard

Tickets are limited and traditionally sell out very quickly.

Michael Donovan Leads Oregon Wine Board

2012-01-31T21:33:00.000-08:00

Michael Donovan, Managing Director of RoxyAnn Winery has been appointed Chairman of the Oregon Wine Board (OWB) and Oregon Winegrowers Association (OWA). After serving for the past two years on the Board of Directors, Michael replaces Sam Tannahill of A to Z Wineworks.

Donovan follows other Southern Oregon representation with Earl Jones of Abacela and Kara Olmo of Wooldridge Creek holding the position in recent years. Terry Brandborg of Brandborg Vineyard & Winery is also currently serving on the Board of Directors.

The two boards, OWB and OWA, each has a separate area of responsibility to the Oregon Wine Industry. The Oregon Wine Board is a semi-independent state agency managing marketing, research and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine grape industry. Whereas the Oregon Winegrowers Association is a voluntary membership-based organization that provides legislative and regulatory advocacy and lobbying for the wine grape and wine industry.

Donovan's Goals:

OWB: Work with our new Executive Director, Tom Danowski and his staff, developing and funding a new strategy for marketing Oregon wine.

OWA: Work with Kara Ruecker, the new Government Affairs & Member Relations Manager to focus on legislative and regulatory advocacy to ensure that the interests of the Oregon Wine Industry are well represented at the State and Federal levels of government. We will continue to be actively involved in issues such as Oregon land use guidelines, OLCC regulations, Immigration and a myriad of other important issues which may present a challenge to our industry. We also want to foster better communication with our members; in addition to offering added benefits like group health insurance to our OWA membership.

Donovan notes that the response to a Southern Oregon-based leader has been very favorable from his Willamette Valley counterparts. "I have enjoyed working closely with members of the Willamette Valley wine industry. I look forward to a continued collaboration with members from every region of the state to ensure that both the OWA and the OWB represent the best interests of the entire Oregon wine industry."

The Drink Local Wine Project

2012-01-30T19:12:00.000-08:00

On a recent trip to the Priorat region of Spain, I was in awe at the level of support local restaurants give to the local wines. This support was also apparent in Barcelona and Madrid for the nation's wine.

On an even more recent trip to Sonoma County, Northern California wines dominated each restaurants' wine list.

A few summers back, I marveled that my corkage was waived at a Walla Walla restaurant when I brought in a bottle of local wine.

All in all, it is obvious (to me) when dining in Southern Oregon, and Oregon for that matter, that the local restaurants are not doing enough to promote our state's wine industry (with the exceptions being recognized with Superior Cellar Awards from the Oregon Wine Board and Oregon Wine Press). It has been rumored that +/- 20% of the wines present on Ashland restaurant wine lists is local. With the rise of restaurants committing to local and sustainable ingredients, why isn't the same commitment being made to local wines or beverages?

For the next couple weeks, I am going to commit myself into investigating this issue and keep asking "Why?" From these questions, I hope to come to conclusions and provide solutions to this issue.

Weigh in...
- Do you think there is an issue here?
- If so, why aren't there more Oregon wines on Oregon restaurant lists?
- Which restaurants do a great job supporting local wines and which restaurants have room for improvement?
- When dining out, do you expect to pay less, the same, or more for an Oregon wine?
- Are you willing to pay more for a local wine?

Oregon Wine Industry Symposium Gears Up for Portland Debut

2012-01-30T18:01:00.000-08:00

Annual Industry Gathering Expected to Attract Record Attendance At New Venue

Portland will play host to the Oregon Wine Industry Symposium for the first time in the industry's history February 21-22 when the conference debuts at the Oregon Convention Center. The annual gathering of wine industry owners and executives was previously held in Eugene. This year's event is expected to attract more than 1,000 attendees.

"This looks like it will be our biggest Symposium ever," said Michael Donovan, chairman of the Oregon Wine Board, sponsor of the event. "The Symposium is always a wonderful opportunity for the industry to come together as a community, learn and celebrate their achievements."

Panel To Assess State of Oregon Wine as Seen Through Eyes of World

In one of the highlights of the conference, a panel of industry experts will address the question of how Oregon wine is viewed in the eyes of the world. Panelists include Jeremy Noye, wine retailer from Zachys; Doug Frost, wine consultant and writer; Josh Raynolds of Steven Tanzer's International Wine Cellar; and Sam Tannahill of A to Z Wineworks. David Millman of Domaine Drouhin will moderate the discussion.

This open, honest discussion will tackle themes of alcohol and acid levels, use of oak, extraction and other stylistic traits being hotly debated in the wine world. The panelists will look at where Oregon has been, where it is now and where it will or should go to survive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The two-day conference kicks off with an insightful look at the state of the Oregon wine industry through the lens of market research, climate and finance. This session is one of the most popular of the Symposium as it tries to look into the crystal ball and project the outlook for the Oregon industry over the next 12 months. The workshop promises to be a fascinating look at the financial climate, purchase data, consumer trends, distribution, pricing and inventory.

Eileen Brady, co-founder of New Seasons Market, a 12-store Portland-based grocery chain that specializes in locally-source, sustainable products, will address attendees in the Symposium's ongoing "inspiration" series, which brings relevant speakers from outside the wine industry. She will talk about how she and a group of friends developed the concept for New Seasons and then brought it to life while holding true to their core values. Brady is a candidate for Mayor of Portland in the 2012 election.

The Oregon Wine Industry Symposium is the primary educational vehicle for the Oregon wine industry. Topics covered in its breakout sessions focus on growing better grapes, making better wine, and selling more wine at favorable prices. Early registration tickets for the Symposium can be purchased until February 10th on the event website.

In addition to a full slate of workshops and general sessions, the conference has attracted more than 140 industry-related vendors to the trade show. Opening day activities culminate with the Oregon Wine Industry Awards dinner.

SOMM the documentary.

2012-01-26T19:38:00.000-08:00

SOMM Documentary Trailer 1 from Forgotten Man Films on Vimeo.

This upcoming documentary looks ahh-mazing. Somm chronicles the process of four sommeliers attempting to pass the ever-so-intimidating Master Sommelier exam. It has one of the lowest pass rates in the world and covers everything and anything to do with wine including viticulture, winemaking, history, geography and blind tastings. The four candidates, who have been slaving, I mean, studying for years, say they are truly obsessed, as fellow blogger Joanna Goddard puts it, "you can feel their athlete-like tension on the screen."

This is a side of the wine industry most people never see. What do you think, would you watch this?

May is Oregon Wine Month!

2012-01-19T16:02:00.000-08:00

As if you need another reason to drink Oregon wine, Governor Kitzhaber proclaims this May as Oregon Wine Month!

From today's Mail Tribune article by Greg Stiles:

January 19, 2012

Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber has signed a proclamation designating May 2012 as Oregon Wine Month in recognition of the Oregon wine industry's rapid growth, international reputation for quality and important contribution to the state's economy.

Speaking to the annual meeting of the Oregon Winegrowers Association in Salem Wednesday, Kitzhaber said, "The Oregon wine industry is not only a key part of our state's economy — it's an important part of our state identity. In a state where agriculture is our second largest industry, the wine-grape crop is Oregon's leading value-added agricultural segment, contributing $2.7 billion annually to the state's economy."

It has been several decades since Oregon has officially recognized its wine industry.

The Oregon wine industry comprises more than 420 wineries and 850 vineyards throughout the state and represents more than 13,500 jobs.

"We are thrilled that the governor has signed the proclamation declaring May as Oregon Wine Month," said Michael Donovan, managing director of RoxyAnn Winery in Medford and chairman of the Oregon Wine Board.

"This is the perfect month to spotlight the importance of our statewide industry, showcase our outstanding wines and recognize the many talented entrepreneurs and hard-working employees who have built the Oregon wine industry into a treasured asset."

Oregon Wine Month kicks off with a grand tasting of Oregon wines on April 29.

The tasting is open to the public and tickets will go on sale soon.

The tasting of wines from more than 100 Oregon wineries will be held in Portland, and feature wines from across the state.

In addition, participating retailers will conduct promotional campaigns showcasing Oregon wines and offering special pricing.

New Blue Heron Vineyards takes root in Garden Valley

2012-01-10T22:41:00.000-08:00

I read this article yesterday from The News-Review and was shocked I hadn't heard anything about this project sooner. Once development is complete, this would be the largest vineyard in the Umpqua Valley. Maybe it is unnecessary, but I always feel so uneasy listening to how people want to make Oregon viticulture more like California. Do you? My two cents is that we should take pride in what makes Oregon grapes challenging to grow (although, it does make it a tough business), because being on the edge is what produces wines of distinction.

And where is all this fruit going?

MICHAEL SULLIVAN / The News-Review

New Blue Heron Vineyards takes root in Garden Valley

RYAN IMONDI

The News-Review

A 3-foot tall grapevine sways in the winter breeze. It's one of 93,750 growing on nearly 800 acres where last spring cattle grazed.

Rows of grapevines now stretch across the land bordered by the South Umpqua River and Garden Valley Road west of Roseburg.

In the past six months, what promises to be Douglas County's largest vineyard has taken shape.

Vines have been planted on 150 acres to create Blue Heron Vineyards. Another 200 acres will be planted by June, and there are plans for 200 more acres in the future.

If fully developed, Blue Heron will be more than twice as large as the county's next biggest vineyard.

The vineyard will represent a $10 million investment, said Bill Henri, who's developing the vineyard for Hal and Vicki Westbrook, co-owners of Douglas County Forest Products.

Efforts to reach the Westbrooks were unsuccessful.

Henri said he is implementing techniques that he learned in the Napa Valley and is importing “super vines” from California to cultivate a vineyard that will produce commercial quality grapes as soon as September.

Observers say that the investment is an indication of the Umpqua Valley wine industry's potential.

“It's going to add to the economic foundation of Douglas County,” said Wayne Parker, owner of nearby Melrose Vineyards.

Henri has been in the wine industry for 30 years and developed wineries in California, Oregon and Washington. Henri and his crew of 14 full-time workers are planting several types of grapes, including pinot noir, pinot gris, viognier and tempranillo. By June they will have planted 340,000 vines over 350 acres.

The initial harvests will be sold to winemakers in the region. Henri said that along with planting 200 more acres, Blue Heron may also open its own winery.

Chris Lake, the director at Umpqua Community College's Southern Oregon Wine Institute, said the venture shows that wine producers are willing to invest in the region.

“We think the economic growth in wineries here is in producing good fruit,” he said. “When you see that level of quality and investment by the owner, it's promising.”

Henri said he is employing methods originally developed in Germany and adopted in the highly competitive Napa Valley. In both places, agricultural land is at a premium.

In the Napa Valley, an oversaturation of vineyards and high real estate costs drove profit margins down and forced wineries to be more efficient.

Henri said he knows of no other vineyard in Oregon that's tapped as extensively into the Napa Valley approach. He predicted the tactics will be used more as the Umpqua region develops.

At the heart of the project are “super vines” grown in a Northern California nursery. Henri said the vines are 20 inches taller than traditional rootstock.

Henri said that the initial cost for the plants is higher, costing $4.75 per vine. This is about $2 more than a traditional vine, or $1,250 for the 625 vines per acre of land. This means that the 350 acres will cost $437,500 more initially.

Henri said the vines will pay for themselves in the long term by becoming profitable sooner and because of lower labor costs.

The more developed plants require less tending, he said.

“The older style would take a whole year to train them up the stake. We don't have to do that here,” Henri said.

He estimated that development costs are lower with the “super vine.”

“It looks like you're paying twice as much. When you look at what you're getting, it's not,” he said.

Before planting, Henri hired Pacific Ag Water Inc., based in Santa Maria, Calif., to survey and map out each row of vines. Using GPS, each row was mapped out geometrically to maximize the space. Henri was able to pinpoint that each acre averages 624.3 vines.

“Everything lines up. We know exactly how many vines there are,” Henri said.

Also, a drip irrigation system will use little energy, and each access road has a large turnaround to speed the harvest, he said.

“This project is designed to have a lot done automatically,” he said. “Everything was designed around being efficient.”

• You can reach reporter Ryan Imondi at 541-957-4211 or by email at rimondi@nrtoday.com.

Cowhorn Spiral 36 named one of "America's Best Undiscovered Wine"

2012-01-10T22:25:00.000-08:00

Cowhorn Wines happily announced today that their 2010 Spiral 36 was named one of "America's Best Undiscovered Wine" in the February issue of Food & Wine Magazine.

I doubt it will be "undiscovered" for much longer.

Spiral 36 is a Rhone-style white blend of Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne sourced exclusively from the Cowhorn Vineyard in the Applegate Valley. The tasting notes from the website might be the most descriptive I've ever read and deserve an award all their own:

This succulent blend opens with aromas of Golden Delicious apple, lemon and mango. These fruits burst with freshness in the mouth, layered onto a vibrant foundation of baked pear and caramelized golden sugar flavors hinting at subtle oak influence from neutral and one year old French barrels. The feeling of the wine is raw silk unrolling across the palate like a wave until the flavors volatilize back into aromas that linger gently on the palate. The rich, complex personality of Spiral 36 was achieved without a secondary fermentation, and comes with refreshingly moderate alcohol.

Although sold out at the winery, you can still find a few bottles floating around local retail shelves.

Reader Survey... And the winners are...

2011-12-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank everyone who voted in the first annual Reader Survey! The intentions for hosting the survey is to hear what Southern Oregon wines the readers thought were the most exciting from the past year and which winery had most impressed them. By the turnout of votes, and record number of traffic to the blog post, it is easy to say this was a great year for Southern Oregon wine. I'm pleased to present this list.

2011 Red Wine of the Year

1. 2008 Del Rio Vineyards Claret

2. 2007 Abacela Reserve Tempranillo

3. 2005 Abacela Paramour

4. 2008 Troon Vineyard Zinfandel Reserve

5. 2008 Folin Cellars Estate Tempranillo

2011 White Wine of the Year

1. 2010 Abacela Albarino

2. 2010 Del Rio Vineyards Pinot Gris

3. 2010 Troon Vineyard Dry Riesling

4. 2010 Reustle-Prayer Rock Gruner Veltliner

5. 2010 Cowhorn Winery & Vineyard Spiral 36

Winery of the Year

1. Abacela

2. Del Rio Vineyards

3. Troon Vineyard

4. Cowhorn Winery & Vineyard

5. Red Lily Vineyard & Quady North Wines

Congratulations to all!

2011 Reader Survey! Vote Now.

2011-12-18T22:53:00.000-08:00

Voting for the 2011 Reader Survey is now open! Vote for any three wines in each of the red and white/rosé category as well as selecting your top pick for winery of the year. Readers may only vote one time. Voting will be open through Friday, December 23rd at 9 pm with results posted shortly after.

A few words about the nominees - these wines were selected by browsing through wine competitions, wine reviews, cellartracker.com and from personal tasting. There are all Southern Oregon producers using Southern Oregon grapes. I eliminated non-vintage wines and wines from back vintages. If you do not see your favorite on the list, please post it to the comment section and I will manually add it (no vintages prior to 2006).

Let us recognize the amazing efforts of 2011! Happy voting!

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.

This Day in History Prohibition was Repealed

2011-12-05T21:56:00.001-08:00

On December 5, 1933 Prohibition was repealed.

I hope your celebrating with a glass of wine this evening.

But, if you missed it, there is always tomorrow.

Cheers!

SF Chronicle's Top 100 Wines of 2011 - Great Showing from Pacific Northwest

2011-12-05T21:33:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to our northerly Pacific Northwest neighbors for their great representation on the San Francisco Chronicle's Top 100 wines of 2011!

The publication even noted:

"Certainly we have great bottles here from bigger names. But once again, many of the best wines to be found on the West Coast are from wineries that work on a small scale.

This shift in scope makes perfect sense. There is always the opportunity to make great wine on a big scale; the beauty of the Louis Martini Sonoma County Cabernet or Domaine Chandon's Brut Classic are perfect evidence. But the attention to detail you get on a small scale is an engine for greatness."

The local wines that earned the honor:

2009 Bergstrom Old Stones Willamette Valley Chardonnay ($30, 13.9%): Josh Bergstrom insists that Old Stones is for early drinking, but there's extraordinary depth here. Ripe and intense, this adds deep, creamy tones to bright apple, Meyer lemon and apricot flavors, with a wild-mushroom accent. A quintessence of Oregon Chardonnay.

2009 Evening Land Vineyards La Source Seven Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Chardonnay ($60, 13%): Hollywood producer Mark Tarlov's new project has attracted a star roster of talent, including Larry Stone (Rubicon) and consultant Dominique Lafon. But his Oregon winemaker, Isabelle Meunier, deserves credit for evoking the best of a lauded Willamette Valley property. There is a laser focus to the flavors in this filigreed effort, as Meunier has found a nervy power to the fruit. It unfolds slowly, picking up flesh from beautiful flavors of lemon peel, dried honeycomb and green apple. Without an ounce of fat, this is Chardonnay expressed as pure sinew.

2009 Stoller Vineyards SV Estate Dundee Hills Chardonnay ($28, 14%): Bill Stoller's site, at the hands of winemaker Melissa Burr, remains a top spot for not only Pinot but Chardonnay, too. This latest is concentrated and stylish, with lots of pastry cream and nuanced oak giving richness to the energetic lemon pulp, peach and Anjou pear.

2010 Pacific Rim Columbia Valley Riesling ($10, 10.5%): Under the eye of winemaker Nicolas Quillé, this Randall Grahm-founded label is proving the potential of Washington Riesling. Don't let the faux-exotic package and price deceive you; this blend from top Columbia Valley sites puts Pacific Rim fully back in the groove. Full of wet river stone, deep nectarine and green apple, it shows the magnitude of both fruit and acid that most Rieslings at this price lack.

2009 Amavi Walla Walla Valley Syrah ($29, 14.1% alcohol): Jean-Francois Pellet's value-minded label again tapped into the best of Walla Walla, with fruit from Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Les Collines in this prime example of Washington's cellar-worthy bounty. Steely and pepper riven, with a classic tarry hint, dried thyme and pretty plum fruit. A lot of chew to the structure, so give it a couple of years to truly blossom.

2009 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir ($32, 13.6%): For yet another vintage, Sheila and Nick Nicholas show the best of Oregon's small-scale charms with their Newberg estate bottling, aged mostly in older oak. There's a classic minty, cool profile here, with camphor, bayberry and a wonderful floral accent. Almost ethereal in its flavors, but with plenty of tannic stuffing.

2009 Arterberry Maresh Dundee Hills Pinot Noir ($25, 13%): A stunning value from Oregon as Jim Arterberry Maresh shows off the best of both his family's vineyard and the red soils of Dundee Hills in a basic bottling that over-delivers. There's gorgeous polish and delicacy that reveals '09's subtler side, with a spicy accent leading to soy and tangerine, and rewarding cherry flavors.

2009 J.K. Carriere Provocateur Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($24, 13.5%): There's something to be said for affordable, early drinking Pinot, and Oregon native Jim Prosser has delivered a beauty, full of tension and freshness. A coppery mineral accent gives depth to chewy plum skin and watermelon. It's proof that immediate-gratification Pinot can still be rewarding when made with care.

2009 Soter North Valley Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($30, 13.8%): Tony Soter made his name farther south, with his Carneros-based Etude. But his Oregon project is coming into its own. He and winemaker James Cahill finessed a tricky vintage with a mouthwatering, darker-hued release. Think of black cherry juice tinged with fenugreek and burnt sage.

2009 Winderlea Dundee Hills Vineyards Dundee Hills Pinot Noir ($38, 14.5%): The parcel once known as the Goldschmidt vineyard, planted in 1974 and owned by an Oregon governor, has come into the hands of Bill Sweat and Donna Morris. Their new label is bringing a polished yet still subtle side to the Willamette, and this blend meshes a creaminess with loam-edged cherry fruit and dried thyme aromas. It's a textural masterpiece, with age-worthy structure that never tastes too tannic.

2008 Andrew Will Two Blondes Vineyard Yakima Valley Red Wine ($55, 14.5% alcohol): For all we know about Chris Camarda's access to top Washington vineyards, his younger-vine blend from this site outside Yakima, built around Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, remains dramatically brilliant. The Two Blondes signature is so clear: sanguine and pimenton-edged, full of cherry fruit, blueberry, leather and bark.

2009 Barnard Griffin Columbia Valley Merlot ($17, 13.7%): Rob Griffin carries a banner for small, affordable labels, and if Merlot is struggling, he's making a solid case from the Northwest. Hailing from top-notch vineyards like Lonesome Spring Ranch and Conner Lee Vineyard, this offers black tea and plum to accent robust oak, with a pretty lilt to the fruit and raspberry highlights. It's real, honest Merlot.

2009 Buty Columbia Valley Merlot-Cabernet Franc ($40, 14.1%): Caleb and Nina Foster give these two polarizing varieties a great name together. Their primary source here is the Conner Lee vineyard along the balmy Wahluke Slope, where Merlot thrives. Packed with fragrant berry and graphite, and paprika and fennel around the edges, this is a seamless and heady expression of what Washington does best.

2008 Cadence Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain Red Wine ($45, 14.4%): Ben Smith and Gaye McNutt continue their run of brilliant Bordeaux-inspired efforts from their tiny Seattle label. Jim Holmes' Ciel du Cheval site always reveals silky tannins, and the high dose of Cabernet Franc in the blend meshes that with a fresh sea-foam note and smokier cumin spice. Warm and packed with bright red and blue fruit, and a deep root-like accent, this will keep getting better over the next decade.

2008 Corison Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($70, 13.8%): In a tricky vintage, Cathy Corison's less-is-more approach is a pleasure to behold. As always, her harvest dates are several weeks before her neighbors', in this case in early September. The classic graphite, sandalwood, green olive and lively cherry and plum fruit keep evolving and deepening, so keep this bottle for a decade or more. Stunningly firm and aromatic.

2008 Gramercy Cellars Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($45, 13.9%): Not to dismiss his Rhone-inspired efforts, but Master Sommelier Greg Harrington has nailed the quintessence of Washington Cabernet from a variety of vineyard sources. Polished, oak-tinged and masterful, this is a gorgeous dose of vibrant blue fruit, edged with a bright mineral accent and refined tannins that give it aging power.

2008 Januik Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($30, 14.4%): Longtime Northwest icon Mike Januik taps some of the top spots in Columbia Valley, including Champoux and Klipsun, for a Cabernet that's stunning for the price. Alluring and graphite-edged, with tea, clove, black olive and heady ripe cherry fruit.

To view the complete list, visit here.

What were your favorite wines of the year?

Cheers! And drink up (locally)!

Jefferson Public Radio 31st Annual Wine Tasting

2011-12-01T11:44:00.001-08:00

Jefferson Public Radio's 31st Annual Wine Tasting takes place on Thursday, December 8, 2011 from 6-9 pm at the Ashland Springs Hotel. This State of Jefferson holiday tradition features over 35 Oregon wineries pouring premium vintages as well as fine restaurants and caterers serving delectable hors d'oeuvres and confections. The evening features a Not-So-Silent Auction hosted by Geoffrey Riley and live music by Pachanga! and The Charles Guy/Crystal Reeves Group, playing acoustic fusion with flamenco flair. Ticket prices are $45 for members and $50 for non-members and are available online or at the Ashland or Medford Food Co-ops.

WINERIES POURING

A to Z Wineworks
Abacela
Agate Ridge Vineyard
Cliff Creek Cellars
Crater Lake Cellars
Cuckoo's Nest Cellars
Del Rio Vineyards
Devitt Winery
Domaine Serene
Edenvale Winery
Eliana Wine
Elk Cove Vineyards
Foris Vineyards Winery
Girardet
Grizzly Peak Winery
Henry Estate Winery
John Michael Champagne Cellars
Ledger David Cellars
Merrill Cellars
Paschal Winery
Pebblestone Cellars
Quady North
Rex Hill
Rocky Knoll
Rosella's Vineyard & Winery
RoxyAnn Winery
Schmidt Family Vineyards
Serra Vineyards
South Stage Cellars
Tenuta Winery
Trium
Troon Vineyard
Velocity Cellars
Weisingers of Ashland
Wooldridge Creek

FOOD PROVIDERS
Arbor House
The Cupcake Daily
Elements Tapas Bar
Gary West Artisan Smoked Meats
Kaleidoscope Pizzeria & Pub
La Baguette
Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine
Lillie Belle Farms
Noble Coffee Roasters
Peerless Restaurant
Rogue Creamery
Smithfields Restaurant & Bar
Standing Stone Brewing Company

Accommodations: Ashland Springs Hotel has kindly offered a greatly reduced rate for JPR Wine Tasting guests. The rate is as follows: One-Night Rate: $89.00 - includes overnight stay / double occupancy with light breakfast, discount to Waterstone Spa & Salon and hotel parking included in the price. For reservations, contact Ashland Springs Hotel, 541-488-1700. This special rate is under the name JPR Block of Rooms.

Wine Tasting Through Oregon? There's an App For That!

2011-11-23T09:14:00.001-08:00

The Oregon Wine Board on Monday launched a new directory to help consumers locate more than 200 Oregon wineries on their mobile phones.

The Oregon Wine Map, available for free, also includes maps to tasting rooms, hours of operation, contact information and turn-by-turn directions.

The map is being released to coincide with the Thanksgiving Weekend in Wine Country events, when most of the state’s wineries open for tastings.

The program was developed by Portland-based LynkSnap, a developer of custom QR codes and mobile websites for the wine industry. The company made similar programs for the Walla Walla Valley Wine Association and the Willamette Valley Wineries Association.

The wine map also serves as a guide to the more than 60 Oregon restaurants to earn “Super Cellars” awards from the Oregon Wine Press. The awards recognize restaurants that have distinguished themselves in the selection of Oregon wine they offer customers.

The program can be accessed at www.oregonwinemap.org, which directs users to a mobile site. According to a wine board news release, the directory can be saved to a phone's home screen where it will create an Oregon Wine icon.

Nearly Sold Out! Last Chance for Tickets to Applegate UnCorked!

2011-11-15T21:28:00.001-08:00

As of today 379 tickets have been sold to Applegate Valley's Fall UnCorked Barrel Tour! This is a record number for the bi-annual event and to keep it a great experience for all they will be capping the tickets at 420. Don't miss your chance at tasting an unreleased barrel sample and wine and food pairing at each of the 17 wineries of the Applegate Valley.

November 20th 11 am - 5 pm

For tickets visit www.applegatewinetrail.com

Here is the latest barrel tastings and wine & food pairing list from the wineries:

Academy of Wine

Barrel Tasting: 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine & Food Pairing: 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon with Oregonzola-infused lamb shanks over mash potatoes

Bridgeview Winery

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Tempranillo

Wine & Food Pairing: 2009 Pinot Noir with Cold-Cured Lox and Dill

Cricket Hill Winery

Barrel Tasting: 2008 Merlot

Wine & Food Pairing: 2007 Bordeaux Blend with Vegetarian Polenta

Cowhorn Vineyard

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Spiral 36

Wine & Food Pairing: 2008 Syrah with Herb-Crusted Yam Coulis on a Crostini

Devitt Winey

2006 Steelhead Run Merlot

Fiasco Winery

Barrel Tasting: 2009 Syrah

Wine & Food Pairing: Prosecco-style White with Homemade Butternut Squash Bisque

Fly High/LongSword Vineyard

Barrel Tasting: 2009 Dolcetto

Wine & Food Pairing: 2010 Viognier

John Michael Champagne Cellars

Wine & Food Pairing: Sparkling Wine with Cranberry-Mango Salsa

Plaisance Ranch

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Syrah

Food Pairing: Chili

Red Lily Vineyards

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Tempranillo

Rosella's Winery

Barrel Sample: 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine & Food Pairing: 2008 Merlot with selection from Pomodori's Restaurant

Schmidt Family Vineyards

Barrel Sample: 2010 Cabernet Franc

Serra Vineyards

Barrel Tasting: 2009 Pinot Noir

Wine & Food Pairing: 2008 Pinot Noir

Soloro Vineyard

Barrel Tasting: 2009 Syrah

Wine & Food Pairing: 2007 Syrah with Chicken Cacciatore

Troon Vineyard

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Chardonnay

Wine & Food Pairing: 2008 Petite Sirah with Thanksgiving Foccacia stuffed with Sweet Potato Butter, Goat Cheese & Figs

Wooldridge Creek Winery

Barrel Tasting: 2010 Zinfandel

Valley View Winery

Southern Oregon Grand Tasting in Portland this Sunday!

2011-11-10T10:43:00.001-08:00

You are invited to enjoy an exciting array of Southern Oregon wines in Portland. On November 13th, Southern Oregon is bringing the best it has to offer from Albarino to Zinfandel to the Portland Art Museum for one memorable evening of wine.

Tickets are $39 and get you a logo glass, unlimited tastes from over 26 producers and appetizers. Purchase your tickets online at www.sorwa.org.

Are you part of the wine industry? Then you qualify for a discounted ticket price of just $25. Please email regina.vacarri@gmail.com to claim.

We hope to celebrate with you then!

Thanksgiving Weekend in Southern Oregon Wine Country!

2011-11-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

The Oregon Wine Press published a comprehensive guide to Thanksgiving Weekend in Oregon Wine Country. Thanksgiving Weekend has become one of the busiest weekend for wine tastings across the state with many wineries hosting fabulous events, tasting special or reserve wines and offering significant deals. Here is the segment featuring Southern Oregon sorted by city.

Ashland

EdenVale (at Enoteca) Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Taste holiday appetizers paired with EdenVale wines. Special discounts and gift baskets made from local products. Perfect getaway for holiday house guests and friends. Fee: $10.

17 N. Main Street, Ashland
541-512-2955 x2
www.edenvalleyorchards.com

Bonanza

12 Ranch Wines Nov. 25–26 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend tasting.

4550 Burgdorf Road, Bonanza
541-545-1204
www.12ranchwines.com

Cave Junction

Bridgeview Vineyard & Winery
Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend open house.

4210 Holland Loop Rd., Cave Junction
541-592-4688
www.bridgeviewwine.com

Eagle Point

Agate Ridge Vineyard Nov. 25 (11 a.m. to 8 p.m.); Nov. 26–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) All 19 current release wines will be available for tasting. Live music. Receive 25 percent off purchases of four bottles or more. Spaghetti, salad and bread for $7; with wine for $10. Holiday shopping, great deals, fantastic hospitality and much more. Fee: $5; $10 (wine tasting with logo glass).

1098 Nick Young Road, Eagle Point
541-830-3050
www.agateridgevineyard.com

Elkton

Bradley Vineyards Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for appetizers, wine and gifts for the holidays.

1000 Azalea Drive, Elkton
541-584-2888
www.bradleyvineyards.com

Brandborg Winery Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend open house. We will be pouring our handcrafted Pinot Noir, Riesling and more. Fee: $5 (includes seasonal appetizers; free to ORCA Club members).

345 First Street, Elkton
541-584-2870
www.brandborgwine.com

River's Edge Winery Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) We’ll have light appetizers, special discounts and a 2009 and 2010 preview.

1395 River Drive, Elkton
541-584-2357
www.riversedgewinery.com

Gold Hill

Cliff Creek Cellars Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Please join us Thanksgiving Weekend for 2004 Claret with pairings in Carlton and at the vineyard.

1015 McDonough Road, Gold Hill
541-855-5330
www.cliffcreek.com

Del Rio Vineyards & Winery Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) On Friday, Black Friday Case Sale. Get your hands on a case of Del Rio for only $100. One of each of our current releases will be wrapped in black paper. Mystery and excitement rule as you blindly select your case. Limited number of cases available. Doors open at 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, celebrate the holiday and the fruits of our labor with complimentary wine tasting, free shipping, holiday spiced wine samples and delicious hors d’oeuvres.

52 N. River Road, Gold Hill
541-855-2062
www.delriovineyards.com

Grants Pass

Troon Vineyard Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend with Troon Vineyard. Taste wine and food pairings from Chef Tim Keller, listen to live music by Rachael Sandeen, 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and receive a personalized “Cellar Pass” from Chris Martin. Bring two cans of non-perishable food items for the Applegate Valley Food Pantry, and we will gladly waive your tasting fee.

1475 Kubli Road, Grants Pass
541-846-9900
www.troonvineyard.com

Jacksonville

Cricket Hill Vineyard & Winery Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend wine tasting. Fee: $3.

2131 Little Applegate Road, Jacksonville
541-899-7264
www.crickethillwinery.com

Devitt Winery Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend wine tasting. We are a family-owned and -operated winery in the heart of the Applegate Valley. We are dedicated to producing premium varietal from estate and local grapes.

11412 Highway 238, Jacksonville
541-899-7511
www.devittwinery.com

Longsword Vineyard Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for the Thanksgiving Weekend to taste our wines.

8555 Highway 238, Jacksonville
541-899-1746
www.longswordvineyard.com

Medford

EdenVale Winery Nov. 25–26 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for our annual Voorhies Mansion Open House. Taste holiday appetizers paired with EdenVale wines. Special discounts and gift baskets made from local products. Perfect getaway for holiday house guests and friends. Fee: $10 (includes tasting and holiday food appetizers).

2310 Voorhies Road, Medford
541-512-2955 x2
www.edenvalleyorchards.com

Pebblestone Cellars Nov. 25–27 (noon to 5 p.m.) Join us for a tasting “after the Turkey.” Fee: $5.

1642 Camp Baker Road, Medford
541-512-1655
www.pebblestonecellars.com

RoxyAnn Winery Nov. 26–27 (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) Visit our historic tasting room over Thanksgiving Weekend to taste some of Southern Oregon’s finest wines. While you’re here, stock up on gifts for the holidays. Fee: $5 (five-plus wines); $3 (three wines). Wine club members receive free tastings plus two guests.

3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford
541-776-2315
www.roxyann.com

Oakland

Sienna Ridge Estate Wine Nov. 25–27 (noon to 6 p.m.) We’ll have turkey with all trimmings and music on Saturday, from 1 to 3 p.m. Our historic wine room is a lovely setting to enjoy our exceptional wines.

1876 John Long Road, Oakland
541-849-3300
www.siennaridgeestate.com

Roseburg

Abacela Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for our annual Thanksgiving Weekend Open House at our new Vine & Wine Center. Fee: $15 (includes wine tasting, logo glass, live music, tapas).

12500 Lookingglass Road, Roseburg
541-679-6642
www.abacela.com

Delfino Vineyards Nov. 25–26 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Holiday gift baskets and wine discounts. Live music, 1 to 4 p.m. (The Zephyr Duo on Friday; Dylan James on Saturday). Fee includes wine tasting, live music, barrel samples, hayrides.

3829 Colonial Road, Roseburg
541-673-7575
www.delfinowines.com

Girardet Winery Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Taste our new releases. Wine and food pairings. Live music on Friday and Saturday. Take advantage of 20-percent case discounts; members save 25 percent. RV, pet and handicapped friendly.

895 Reston Road, Roseburg
541-679-7252
www.girardetwine.com

HillCrest Winery & Distillery Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for an open house and new release tasting. All of these wines are not sold in stores. Artisan production from the Oregon’s oldest estate winery. Fee: $5 (applied to bottle or case purchase).

240 Vineyard Lane, Roseburg
541-673-3709
www.hillcrestvineyard.com

Melrose Vineyards Nov. 25–26 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Winery open house. Fee: $10 (includes entry, logo glass, wine and food pairings, music).

885 Melqua Road, Roseburg
541-672-6080
www.melrosevineyards.com

Spangler Vineyards Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) Join us for a Thanksgiving Weekend open house at our Roseburg winery. No fee. A $5 reserve flight available, which includes light snacks.

491 Winery Lane, Roseburg
541-679-9654
www.spanglervineyards.com

Shady Cove

Crater Lake Cellars Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Escape to the Upper Rogue Region to taste some wine and enjoy the shops. Join us.

21882 Highway 62, Shady Cove
541-878-4200
www.craterlakecellars.com

Winston

Wild Rose Vineyard Nov. 25–27 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Enjoy Thanksgiving Weekend with us. No fee.

375 Porter Creek Road, Winston
541-580-5488
www.wildrosevineyard.com

1975 to 2011, Valley View's Rich History

2011-11-09T18:59:00.000-08:00

Valley View Winery posted these two photos on their Facebook today that I thought was really neat. The photo on the left is from 1975 with Mike (7 years old) and Frank Wisnovsky posing with the largest vine in the vineyard. Thirty-six years later, Mike and his son, Stephen (7 years old) are pictured at the same vine.

Applegate Uncorked Fall Barrel Tour - Sunday, November 20th

2011-11-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

Roam the Rogue on a new Weekend!

2011-10-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

The annual Rogue Valley Fall Passport Tour has a NEW date and time. Previously held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, this year the Upper Rogue Valley Vintners will be hosting their event on Saturday, October 29th from 10am to 5pm.

Join them as each of the winemakers introduce their newest wines and share their creative inspiration and delicious food pairings with some of the best wines from each of these wineries:

Agate Ridge Vineyard

Cliff Creek Cellars

Crater Lake Cellars

Daisy Creek Vineyard

Del Rio Vineyards

Folin Cellars

LaBrasseur Winery

Ledger David Cellars

RoxyAnn Winery

Tickets are only $25 per person and include a commemorative Reidel glass; plus delicious appetizers and wine tasting at all 9 participating wineries. Tour is self guided.

Click here for tickets!

Abacela Launches Paramour, Gran Reserva Style Tempranillo

2011-10-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

Abacela Launches Paramour, a new American wine style inspired by the great Gran Reserva Tempranillos of Spain

Abacela announced the release of its 2005 Paramour, a new American wine style and the winery's finest and most age-worthy bottling. For winery owners, Earl and Hilda Jones, Paramour is the culmination of their dream and 20-year odyesset to craft an American Gran Reserva style Tempranillo that was, until now, only made in Spain. There were just 170 cases produced in the inaugural 2005 vintage, which was patiently aged for six years; two in French oak barrels and four in bottle. Paramours will remain limited production, proprietary Tempranillo blends made only from their top estate vineyard selections in exceptional years.

According to Earl Jones, "Paramour is an old Middle English word meaning 'other love.' We chose this name to reflect the last 20 years we've spent pioneering Tempranillo, and underscore the meticulous attention that goes into its production. Paramour is the reason we forsook careers in medicine in the early nineties and moved to Southern Oregon's Umpqua Valley to farm at the climactic edge." Hilda Jones adds, "We've had to keep the Paramour project a secret for a long time while awaiting vineyard maturity."

"We know that this 2005 vintage would be the first Paramour release right at the crushpad," says Jones. "The 2005 season was characterized by a rainy spring and a dry, warm summer in which heat stress was minimal. The exquisitely ripe fruit was in perfect condition, and we selected only the finest lots for the Paramour concentrating on making a proprietary Tempranillo blend that is greater than the sum of its parts."

The 2005 Paramour was bottled on August 9, 2007 with sequentially numbered labels. The suggested retail price is $90 a bottle, or $540 for six tissue-wrapped bottles in a custom wooden case.

The wine was released on October 15 to Abacela's Llaneros Wine Club members, who have exclusive access until November 12. In the meantime, the general public may place pre-orders online at www.abacela.com. Paramour will also be available in a select few restaurants and wine retailers in major metropolitan markets.

Quady North Cab Franc Ranked "Best"

2011-10-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

A very BIG accomplishment was awarded to Quady North Wines in the special issue of Wine & Spirits Magazine. They earned the "Best Cab Franc" title in the Top 100 Wines of 2011 article along with a well deserved 93 points.

Congratulations to Herb and the crew! It is very exciting to see a Southern Oregon wine make the list and this is one of the largest awards a Southern Oregon wine has been given.

Write Congressman Schrader and request he oppose HR 1161

2011-10-11T18:19:00.000-07:00

A message from Sam Tannahill, President of the Oregon Winegrowers Association:

For the past several weeks, Steve Burns, the interim executive director of the Oregon Winegrowers Association (OWA), has been working quietly with Congressman Kurt Schrader and his staff in an attempt to convince the congressman to withdraw his sponsorship of HR 1161, the latest iteration of the CARE Act, which limits direct shipping, a bill OWA has been fighting for years.

Unfortunately, alerting Congressman Schrader that he is the only signatory in a wine producing district, has not changed his mind. The time has come for us all to put our full weight behind demonstrating to Congressman Schrader why the entire Oregon wine industry- indeed the entire US wine indsutry - is so opposed to the potential devastating impact of HR 1161 on wineries throughout Oregon and the United States. Your help is needed now more than ever to let Congressman Schrader know how critical defeat of HR 1161 is for Oregon's 420 winery and 850 vineyard owners.

HR 1161 would have a devastating effect on Oregon's $2.7 billion wine industry. Oregon wineries sell 21% of production direct to consumers, representing 35% of the revenues generated by Oregon wineries. Obviously, the financial impact of HR 1161 on the Oregon wine industry is significant.

It is time to make our position heard and in an aggressive grassroots campaign. OWA is taking its position public by reaching out to the media to let them know what is at risk for Oregon's burgeoning wine industry. Outreach to the press has already begun and will only intensify over time. You can help! Please write Congressman Schrader and let him know you are a member of the Oregon wine industry (or supporter) who is opposed to his position on this legislation and request he withdraw his support immediately.

Here's how you can reach Congressman Schrader:
Write, email or call him. If you live in his district, let him know. If you don't, also write your congressman to oppose HR 1161.

Salem District Office

494 State Street, Suite 210

Salem, OR 97301

(503) 588-9100

(503) 588-5517 (fax)

Washington DC Office

314 Cannon HOB

Washington, D.C. 20515

(202) 225-5711

(202) 225-5699 (fax)

With your proactive support, we can all speak with one voice and let Congressman Schrader know why he should oppose HR 1161. Thanks for your support.

The Loss of a Legend, Dick Troon

2011-10-04T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today we lost Southern Oregon wine pioneer and Troon Vineyard founder, Dick Troon.

From planting the first vines in the Applegate Valley in 1972, advocating for viticulture classes at the Rogue Community College, and mistakenly making 'Druid's Fluid,' Mr. Troon's contributions to the local and statewide wine industry are a big reason why many of us are involved in (or drinking) Southern Oregon wine today.

He touched many people's lives and will be truly missed. Please raise a glass in tribute to his vast accomplishments and spirit!

To learn more about Mr. Troon's incredible life, read Janet Eastman's article, A Daddy of Rogue Valley Wine.

Parks UnCorked

2011-09-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Parks Uncorked will return for the fourth year at the Santo Community Center in West Medford. 95% of the ticket sales, auctions and donations are used to provide scholarships for area youth to participate in Parks & Recreation programming. The 2010 event raised $15,000 and provided for 300 youth to participate in recreation and enrichment experiences, many for the first time. The event includes wine tasting, catered hors d'oeuvres by Rosario's, music, silent auction, and a live auction. This year Del Rio Vineyards, EdenVale Winery, God King Slave Wines, Foris Vineyards, Henry Estate Winery, Pebblestone Cellars and a dozen other wine and beer producers will be pouring their support. A special thanks to Oregon Wine Geeks for their help in organizing this event.

This years event will be held on:
Friday, September 30, 2011 6:00pm
Tickets available NOW!

Cost:
$20 per person, includes wine glass,
tastings, food, music and fun

Location:
Santo Community Center Gymnasium
701 N. Columbus Ave.

For more information you can call:
(541) 774-2400

Celebrate Harvest this October!

2011-09-29T18:51:00.000-07:00

The busiest, most beautiful time of year is upon us in the local wineries and vineyards. Though it has been a challenging year from a weather perspective to ripen the fruit, the eventual grape harvest is always a time of great celebration. Get involved by joining in on these fun-filled events.

Grape Stomping!
courtesy of adventureswithben.com

October 1st - Celebrate the season at Troon Vineyard's annual Harvest Party from 1-4 pm. The day will be filled with wine tasting, food, live music by LEFT, grape stomping, vineyard tours, pumpkin carving and other Fall festivities. Troon will also be releasing its 2010 Druid's Fluid Red at the best price of the season! This event is complimentary (standard tasting fees apply) and family-friendly. www.troonvineyard.com

October 1st & 2nd - Bear Creek Boutique Wineries will host their first annual Wine and Vine Event from 12-5 pm. All eight wineries will share samples from their wine barrels and vineyards. www.bearcreekboutiquewineries.com

October 8th - The Upper Rogue Wine Trail continues their complimentary 2nd Saturday event with a Harvest theme. Come participate and learn about the process from 11 am - 5 pm at the six participating wineries. www.upperroguewinetrail.com

October 29th - Do you have want it takes to survive a Crush? Join the Crush Crew at Troon Vineyard for their annual Harvest Bootcamp. Spend a half day picking, sorting, pressing, cleaning (otherwise, under the complete control of Winemaker, Herb Quady. If you make it out alive you will be rewarded by a specially prepared lunch by Chef Tim Keller. $30/person. Reserve your spot today by calling 541.846.9900. www.troonvineyard.com

Ongoing- Thru the month of October, Abacela will be hosting winery tours. Schedule yours by calling in advance or by inquiring at the bar upon arrival. It is a great time to tour the vineyard and winery because they will be "knee-deep" in grapes! www.abacela.com

photo by Lynn Ketchum

Del Rio Vineyard Supports Breast Cancer by "Drinking Pink"

2011-09-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

Del Rio Vineyards is excited to announce our efforts to contribute to raising breast cancer awareness. For the month of October Del Rio Vineyards will be offering as special six bottle bundle of Rose Jolee for $65.00. For each bundle sold Del Rio Vineyards will donate $5.00 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Rose Jolee is a semi sparkling Early Muscat. The wine is delightfully pink, with a fragrance of honeysuckle and roses, this delicately sweet wine is the perfect partner for summertime fun! Aromas leap out of the glass in an explosion of peach and tangerine. The flavors of citrus balance well with the aromas and, a slight spritz completes this fun wine.

The Rose Jolee has been a signature wine at Del Rio with its fanciful name meaning “pretty pink” in French. With a slight twist in spelling from the French version Jolie to Jolee, the name is shared by Del Rio Vineyard owner Jolee Wallace.

Bundles are available for purchase at the tasting room located in Gold Hill or on online at www.delriovineyards.com.

Downfall of a Cult California Winery

2011-09-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

For those who work in the wine biz, this is a must watch.

Warning: May be seen as offensive, but it is just meant as a joke.

Grants Pass Wine Stroll this Saturday

2011-09-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

via tracypress.com

Come stroll down the wonderful streets of Downtown Grants Pass while enjoying interesting shops, tasting delectable wines, wonderful food and great art with your friends and family this Saturday from 3-6 pm. The TCA Wine Strolls have become very popular downtown events with a handful of Southern Oregon wineries participating.

Tickets are $25.00 in advance, $30.00 the day of the event and are on sale now at:

UMPQUA Bank, F Street Branch
The Bead Merchant, 300 SW 6th Street
Blind George's Newsstand, 117 SW G Street

Pyrenees Vineyards Ask Listeners to Design the Label or New Wine

2011-09-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

Leading radio content provider CRN Digital Talk Radio and Pyrenees Vineyards and Cellars are joining together to ask listeners to design the label of CRN’s first ever wine release.

“We are extremely thrilled at the listener response to our ‘Name the Wine’ contest for our first wine release so now we are asking listeners to get creative again and design our new label,” said Michael Horn, CEO and founder of CRN.

Last month, listener Suzanne Wright of Sebastopol, Calif. won the “Name the Wine Contest,” with the name “CRN’s Smooth Talker Bordeaux.”

The new wine will be a traditional Bordeaux blend which includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc exclusively created by the wine experts at Pyrenees Vineyards in Oregon’s Umpqua Valley.

“It’s always very exciting to debut a new wine, so we’re looking forward to what CRN’s listeners will come up with for this brand new label ,” said Andrew Apodaca, general manager of Pyrenees Vineyards and Cellars producer of the wine and contest co-sponsor.

The contest, set to begin on Sept. 1, will give the winner a case of the new wine, as well as a framed copy of the wine label and a guest spot on “What’s Cookin’ On Wine: Oregon Report” radio program. The contest closes on Sept. 12 with the winner to be announced on the Sept. 22 show.

Everyone 21 and over is eligible to enter the contest by logging into Facebook at www.facebook.com/CRNTalk or by visiting www.CRNTalk.com. All entries should be submitted to info@CRNi.net.

All submissions must be the size of a wine label, include appropriate material for a wine label, and incorporate the CRN and Pyrenees logos, talk radio themes or something that illustrates CRN’s Smooth Talker name. It must also represent a Bordeaux blend incorporating Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

“What’s Cookin’ on Wine: Oregon Report,” features the latest news on wine, winemaking and related topics in Oregon’s rich winemaking region, featuring Pyrenees Vineyards’ Andrew Apodaca. It airs Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. on CRN and its affiliates around the country. It’s also available online, live and on demand at www.crntalk.com.

The CRN wine will be available through Pyrenees Vineyards this fall.

Celebrate Local this Week: God King Slave Wines at 38 Central

2011-09-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

Eat Local Week is upon us and God King Slave Wines will be teaming up with 38 Central this Friday, Sept 16th from 5-7ish to celebrate. Come stroll around downtown Medford for the Third Friday Art Walk, then come to 38 Central, one of the best local restaurants that highly supports local wine, for a complimentary taste of the Rogue Valley produced Syrah-Tempranillo blend. The wine will be for sale by-the-glass and bottle, paired with incredible food specials, and enjoyed with live music.

You can't get more local than this!

Del Rio Vineyard Hikes

2011-09-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

courtesy of Del Rio Vineyard's blog

This month Del Rio Vineyards is offering complimentary guided hikes throughout their sprawling vineyard. The hike takes you through their 205 acres of vines providing a spectacular view. It also offers the chance to sample the fifteen different grape varietals as they ripen for harvest.

Sundays @ 9:30 am

9/25/2011

Wednesdays @ 9:30 am

9/14/2011

9/21/2011

9/28/2011

Things to Note:

• Bring comfortable shoes and a water bottle as they will be traversing over rolling hills.

• Meet promptly in the tasting room parking lot

Troon Draws New Lines In The Southern Oregon Soil

2011-09-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

Troon Vineyard is the topic of the current Feature Story on OregonWine.com:

-- New Varietals, New Emphasis on Food and Hospitality for Applegate Valley Winery --

By Jim Gullo

“We don’t come from the same upbringing,” Chris Martin, the proprietor of Troon Vineyard is saying one recent morning, not only about his winery but about the entire region south of Eugene that is collectively lumped together as Southern Oregon by most wine publications (including this one). He’s pointing out that things are different from the Pinot-producers of the north, with their world-renowned conferences and elbow-rubbing with Burgundians and, well, traffic. Whereas the Willamette Valley has the whole city of Portland to draw from, Martin points out that where he stands is just about as close to San Francisco as it is to the Rose City…and neither one is exactly close enough for a quick, afternoon wine-tasting jaunt. “We don’t have the same varietals. And 98% of us don’t have distribution.” Which means that you mostly have to beat a path to Martin’s door to drink his wines, and he’s making that path smoother with each passing year...

Click here to read the full story PLUS tasting notes on four of Troon's wines.

9 Good Reasons to Shop Locally Owned Business

2011-09-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

This weeks is Eat Local Week here in the Rogue Valley. Sponsored by Thrive, Eat Local Week is a fun-filled week celebrating the delicious bounty of locally-grown food in the Rogue Valley. You can participate in a number of ways, by dining at these restaurants that source and support local farmers, plunging into the Eat Local Challenge, attending the Rogue Valley Farm Tour or Rogue Flavor Dinner and of course visiting your local wineries!

Nine Good Reasons to Shop at Locally Owned Businesses

When you spend a dollar locally, it multiplies

Locally owned businesses tend to do business with other locally owned businesses and aren’t constrained to buy only from a national distributor. They bank with local banks, advertise in local newspapers and purchase local services such as accounting and printing. Each time a dollar is re-spent in the local economy, it’s like new income – creating a “multiplier effect” - rather than this money “leaking out” through remote corporate headquarters and centralized purchasing departments.

Community ownership

Local business owners live and invest in their community. This makes them less likely to leave and more likely to be invested in how their business decisions affect the community.

A more stable economy

An economy composed of many small, locally owned businesses is more stable and often more prosperous over the long-term than one dependent on a handful of absentee-owned companies. Local ownership ensures that businesses are firmly rooted in the community. They are unlikely to move and will do their best to weather economic hard times. Because there are so many of them, the failure of any one will have only a minor impact on the local economy.

Job creation

Small, locally-owned businesses provide the largest share of net new jobs generated each year and also provide the most stable employment opportunities in a community.

Local owners are local contributors

Research has shown that small local businesses make indispensable contributions to communities and neighborhoods. A study of charitable giving in Oregon showed that when in-kind contributions were included, small firms gave an average of $789 per employee, medium sized firms $172, and large firms $334. (NFIB Small Business Policy Guide) Additionally, large firms contribute primarily to the area where the corporation is headquartered, not necessarily where they do business.

Maintain uniqueness

Our one-of-a-kind Buy Local- Buy Rogue businesses are an integral part of our distinctive regional character. The unique character our valley is what brought us here and will keep us here and keep visitors coming back. A local economy of diverse, unique businesses also attracts today's skilled workers and investors who can choose to settle and grow businesses anywhere.

Customer service is better

Local businesses often hire people with more specific product expertise for better customer service.

Competition and diversity leads to more choices

A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.

Reduced environmental impact

Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town or city centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

Hang out with winemakers at C Street Bistro

2011-09-06T23:25:00.000-07:00

Read Medford Wine Examiner, Janet Eastman's latest article from The Jacksonville Review.

Hangout with winemakers at C Street Bistro

Chef Mike & Chef Paul
credit: Janet Eastman

Winemakers have to eat, too. And when these pros with well-trained palates are hungry, they know how to sniff out the best restaurants.

Something bland, something boring, something “off” triggers a snarl in them faster than a cranky teenager separated from her cellphone. On the flipside, if a dish is intoxicatingly fresh and precisely paired with other thrilling tastes, wham-o! Winemakers are happy.

Lean in closely and I’ll reveal a new place where Applegate Valley vintners go when they don’t feel like cooking: C Street Bistro.

... READ FULL ARTICLE

Optimistic Harvest Outlook

2011-09-06T23:17:00.000-07:00

I'm an optimist, and apparently so is Pat Spangler of Spangler Vineyards in his recent interview with Wine Press Northwest:

Thursday, Sep. 01, 2011

Umpqua Valley grapes look better than 2010

By Eric Degerman, Wine Press Northwest

ROSEBURG, Ore. -- While folks in the Willamette Valley are even less than optimistic about this year's vintage than that of 2010, the news coming out of Southern Oregon isn't nearly as dire.

Patrick Spangler, of Spangler Vineyards in Roseburg, supplied the following report on Aug. 31 from the Umpqua Valley:

"We started veraison late last week, and now are starting to show color through most of the vineyard. Keep in mind, this is Cab Sauv I'm talking about. That only leaves us around 12 days behind the 10-year average here at my vineyard, and a few days AHEAD of last year.

"I think folks are getting way ahead of themselves predicting a bad year," he continued. "If we simply get decent weather the rest of the way (they continue to forecast slightly warmer and drier), Southern Oregon will not have a problem."

Spangler concluded, "In fact, if it is dry throughout October, it could turn out to be a great year."

- - -

By now nearly all Southern Oregon vineyards have seen their first purple berries. This change of color, also known as verasion, signals the onset of ripening. This is the most beautiful time of year in the vineyard. From veraison, we can estimate 60-90 days until Harvest, which lands us somewhere in mid-late October. Let's hope for a long, dry Fall!

Verasion at Troon Vineyard in the Applegate Valley

Umpqua CC gets $1.25M federal grant for wine incubator

2011-09-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

From Wine Press Northwest news services

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank today announced a $1.25 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to Umpqua Community College of Roseburg, Ore., to build a small business incubator to support the viticulture sector.

The project is expected to create as many as 500 jobs per year in southern Oregon, according to projections developed by Chris Lake, director of the Southern Oregon Wine Institute at UCC.

"It is a great way to begin the school year," Lake told Wine Press Northwest.

Funds will allow Lake to purchase equipment for clients to make wine in the Danny Lang Center.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation’s economic competitiveness," Blank said in a news release. "This EDA-funded project will help bring high-quality jobs and economic growth to the region by fueling the growth of the Roseburg viticulture industry."

Oregon’s southern region has experienced a high rate of unemployment, but the wine industry has provided a boost to the economy.

In July, the Oregon Wine Board made public a study which indicates wine has become a $2.7 billion industry for the state. That report, developed by Full Glass Research in Berkeley, Calif., showed a nearly 50 percent increase since 2005.

Deal Ending Soon! 2 Tickets to the Taste of Harry & David for $20.

2011-08-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

Limelight Deals is running a deal on tickets to this year's Taste of Harry & David event this Labor Day Weekend. Get two tickets for just $20! Deal ends Thursday at midnight, so hurry and get your tickets now.

Harry and David Rosenberg. Two Southern Oregon boys who brought us the most luscious pears the region had ever seen. Then came the Fruit-of-the-month Club with delights each and every month, followed by the legendary Tower of Treats. Now, over 70 years later, the company is better than ever and you can bet, they really know how to throw one great, tasty party.

Today’s deal gets you half off on two tickets to the Food and Wine Event of the Year, the fabulous 2011 Taste of Harry and David. Spend just $20 and get those two tickets--that’s BOGO with flavor! The event is on Labor Day Weekend, September 2 from 3-9 p.m. and on September 3 and 4 from 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. so get your tickets now and go on any one of those days you like!

With 40 wineries, 20 food booths, and 9 local chefs competing in the perfect pairing chef challenge as well as live bands, The Taste of Harry and David is the region’s premiere food and wine event. The entire Rogue Valley turns out to sample a delicious array of specialty foods, including exclusive chocolates, artisan cheeses, and premium wines. Check out a cooking class on September 3 or 4 with foods from Italy, a grilling class or the art of wine and cheese pairing. The Perfect Pairing Chef Challenge is a great competition too where local chefs team with wineries to see who can come up with the best pairing. You’ll also feel good as you give back to help restock ACCESS’s food bank. Get your half price tickets now for the tastiest event of the year!

The Fine Print:

Note: Deal is not active until a minimum of 12 deals are sold. Deals are not available to use until the day after the deal is over.

- Promotional value expires on last day of the event September 4, 2011
- Not to be combined with other offers such as the food drive discount
- No cash back for unused portion
- Full face value must be used at the time of purchase
- Non-transferable
- Only 1 Voucher per customer

Oregon Wine Board, Oregon Wine Press Partner to Recognize Top Oregon Wine Lists

2011-08-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

Oregon Wine Board, Oregon Wine Press Partner to Recognize Top Oregon Wine Lists

Seventy restaurants receive Oregon Wine Superior Cellar Award

In an effort to spotlight Oregon restaurants that are strong advocates for Oregon wines, the Oregon Wine Board (OWB) and the state’s leading wine-focused consumer publication, Oregon Wine Press (OWP), are partnering to raise the visibility of OWP’s Superior Cellar Awards^TM.

“A growing number of fine restaurants currently carry wide selections of Oregon wines, and we applaud them, but there are still too many that do not”

The Superior Cellar Award is the only program in the state that provides consumer guidance on restaurants that feature diverse and broad selections of Oregon wines on their wine lists. The goal of the program is to help consumers find restaurants, both in Oregon and elsewhere, that strongly advocate Oregon wine and to encourage restaurants to carry and feature Oregon wines.

“A growing number of fine restaurants currently carry wide selections of Oregon wines, and we applaud them, but there are still too many that do not,” said Steve Burns, acting executive director of the Oregon Wine Board. “We believe that for those restaurant owners who choose to carry excellent Oregon wine selections, we should help them make sure consumers are aware. Many Oregon restaurants focus on local sourcing in their food, but have not chosen to do the same in their wine selections.”

OWP debuted its Superior Cellar Awards in September 2010, selecting 41 restaurants for the designation. Under the new partnership, the list of restaurants will be refreshed on a regular basis. Restaurants are encouraged to display the Superior Cellar Award logo on their websites and in their establishments.

“We started the Superior Cellar Awards in Oregon Wine Press a year ago,” said Hilary Berg, OWP editor. “We are thrilled to be partnering with the industry’s largest winery and vineyard organization to expand the program and increase its visibility and familiarity with consumers and restaurants.”

Twenty new restaurants have been added to the program while one has closed, bringing the total number of Superior Cellar Award winners to 60 in Oregon. In addition, 10 restaurants from outside the state have also been chosen as Superior Cellar Award winners for 2012. The entire list of restaurants and a complete explanation of the program can be found on the OWP website.

“Waverly Root (a longtime American food journalist and author) said, ‘Where there is good wine there is good food.’ That's been our focus here at Higgins,” said Greg Higgins, owner of Higgins Restaurant in Portland, a Superior Cellar award winner. “To embrace both local food and wine by recognizing Oregon wine lists, OWP and OWB are helping to encourage others to do the same."

The criteria for receiving a Superior Cellar Award was developed by OWP in consultation with the wine industry as well as members of the wholesale and retail trade. OWP editors evaluate wine lists for breadth, depth and balance as well as specific selections. Emphasis is also placed on waitstaff training and education; special tastings and other wine-related events are also taken into consideration.

Superior Cellar Award restaurants are regularly evaluated to assure wine lists maintain their Oregon integrity. Consumers are encouraged to suggest restaurants that should be considered for the designation. They can make those suggestions by emailing them to Hilary Berg.

About OWB:

The Oregon Wine Board (OWB) is a semi-independent Oregon state agency managing marketing, research and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine and wine grape industry. The Board works on behalf of all Oregon wineries and independent growers throughout the state’s diverse winegrowing regions. The Oregon wine grape and wine industry contributes more than $2.7 billion of economic activity to the state economy each year, including more than 13,000 wine-related jobs.

Shocking Exclusion in Portland Monthly's "50 Best Oregon Wines" (or not?)

2011-08-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

Portland Monthly cover story headline is very misleading. If "best" and "Oregon wine" are in your headline, you better have a broader selection than 100 producers in your tasting. With not one Southern Oregon or Columbia Gorge pick, I am thinking "best" is a bad choice of word. - Hilary Berg, Oregon Wine Press Editor via facebook (which inspired this post)

Want to see the injustice for yourself? Read the article.

Here is the magazine's explanation of "Why only Pinots," which I find very insulting. My blood pressure is rising just typing this.

Why only Pinots?

Where are all the other reds? As you scan this list, you’ll probably notice a trend: every single one of our 35 top red wines is a pinot noir. While Oregon’s production of “the other reds”—merlot, cabernet sauvignon, syrah, zinfandel, and others—is quickly growing, much of our state’s winemaking energy is still devoted to the granddaddy of Oregon grapes. The first varietal to be widely grown in the Willamette Valley, where the climate is ideal, pinot noir has put our verdant vineyards solidly on the radar of oenophiles around the globe. that means thriving markets for Oregon winemakers, which lead to greater investment in pinot production. But trust us: there are plenty of other delicious wines out there just waiting to be sipped.

My understanding of the tasting is you had to be "asked" to the table. How would these five so-called judges know everything and everyone to ask for? Even if a Southern Oregon wine couldn't break into the top 50 (which would be doubtful), they still should get a seat at the table. Of course the magazine still tried to sell ads to Southern Oregon wineries and associations. They aren't above our money, only our wines.

Janet Eastman Named Wine Writer for Mail Tribune

2011-08-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Janet Eastman for being named the new wine writer for the Medford Mail Tribune! She will be taking over for Cleve Twitchell who retired after writing the column for two decades. Janet is already such a great support to our local and statewide wine industry in her work as the Medford Wine Examiner, contributor to Oregon Wine Press, The Jacksonville Review and Southern Oregon Magazine. Her first column will debut next Wednesday.

Join Our Mailing List

2011-08-18T23:15:00.000-07:00

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The Wine Trail Ends Here.

2011-08-18T23:02:00.000-07:00

Six Wineries

One Location

Upper Rogue End of Wine Trail

slightly confusing name because they still have their 2nd Saturday events planned through November, but hey, any reason to drink wine...

Thursday, August 25th

5-8pm

Del Rio Vineyards, 52 N. River Rd., Gold Hill, OR

$10

Reserve your tickets now!

547-855-9819

Featuring:

Rogue Creamery Cheeses

The Butcher Shop - Meats

Friday or Saturday. C St Bistro. Be there!

2011-08-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

Come eat and drink with Chris & Christine to celebrate their inaugural release!

C St. Bistro (the hottest new restaurant in Southern Oregon) announced the menu for this Friday & Saturday's wine release dinner. You can't get much fresher than setting the menu after you buy the ingredients from this morning's farmers' market.

AMUSE BOUCHE
Cornmeal Fried Okra Stuffed with Caramelized Onion/Garlic Chevre and Heirloom Tomato Relish

FIRST COURSE

Watermelon and Sweet Basil Gazpacho with Smoked Halibut Cheek

Troon Vineyard 2010 Dry Riesling

MAIN COURSE

Maple Brined Natural Pork Chop with Cipollini Quinoa, Grilled Red Haven Peach and Balsamic Syrup

God King Slave 2009 Syrah - Tempranillo

DESSERT

Blackberry Cobbler
Bellini

$45 includes dinner and wine.
Bottles and cases available for purchase.

C St. Bistro is located at 230 E C St. in Jacksonville.

Reservations recommended.

Call 541.231.7368 or email godkingslavewines@gmail.com.

Harry & David Wine Competition Winners Announced

2011-08-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

The Taste of Harry & David, a staple Southern Oregon wine event taking place every Labor Day Weekend at the Harry & David Country Village, has announced their winners for this year's wine competition.

Come taste the local food and wines:

Friday, September 2nd, 3-9 pm

Saturday, September 3rd, 11 am - 6 pm

Sunday, September 4th, 11 am - 6pm

$15/person

The Gold Medal winners will be teaming up with a local restaurant to compete for the best food and wine pairing (using a Harry & David ingredient) as voted by professionals and event attendees.

Gold

2009 Bergstrom Old Stones Chardonnay, Best of Show ~ White

2009 Bergstrom de Lancelotti Pinot Noir, Best of Show ~ Red

2010 South Stage Cellars Sp. Muscat, Best of Show ~ Sweet

2009 Pyrenees Chardonnay

2009 Philanthropie 2x2 Viognier

2008 Illahe Pinot Noir

2008 Foris Maple Ranch Pinot Noir

2009 Winderlea "Ana" Pinot Noir

2008 South Stage Cab Franc

2008 Agate Ridge Cab Franc

2009 Del Rio Claret

2008 Quady North 4-2-a Syrah

2010 Pebblestone Viogner

2005 Edenvale Syrah

Silver

2010 Philanthropie Suavignon Blanc

2010 Melrose Sauvignon Blanc

2009 Del Rio Pinot Gris

2010 Cuckoo’s Nest Pinot Gris

2008 Anna Maria Chardonnay

2009 Troon Chardonnay

2009 Cuckoo’s Nest Aromatique

2010 Quady Syrah Rose

2010 Pebblestone Syrah Rose

2009 Melrose Dolcetto

2009 Tesoaria Barbera

2009 Fly High Tempranillo

2008 Domaine Paradox Pinot Noir

2009 J. Scott Grenache

2009 Heritage Collection Grenache ~ Syrah

2006 McAuley Proprietary Red

2008 Eliana Red Blend

2008 Daniel Joseph GSM

2008 Roxy Ann Syrah

2006 Anna Maria Cab Sauvignon

2005 Lorelli Cabernet Sauvignon

2010 Abiqua Wind Mueller Thurgau

2009 Slagle Creek Reserve Red

Bronze

2010 J. Scott Roussane

2009 Roxy Ann Pinot Gris

2009 Quady North Oxblock Viognier

2008 Ellie Viognier

2009 Ledger Princeps Chenin Blanc

2010 Ledger David Sangiovese Rose

2009 Tesoaria Dolcetto

2009 Tesoaria Tempranillo

2009 God King Slave Tempranillo/Syrah

2009 Anna Maria Pinot Noir

2009 Del Rio Pinot Noir

2007 Winderlea Estate Pinot Noir

2009 Pyrenees Meritage

2006 Lorelli Quattro Foglie

2007 Pebblestone Syrah

2005 Shasta View Zinfandel

2009 Troon Kubli Zinfandel

2010 Plaisance Syrah Rose

2010 Agate Ridge Weeknight White Blend

2009 Henry Estate Mueller Thurgau

Congratulations to the 2011 winners!

Cleve Twitchell bids farewell - Searching for the next wine columnist

2011-08-17T23:02:00.000-07:00

Cleve Twitchell writes his farewell article as the former editor and wine columnist for the Medford Mail Tribune. The end of era opens up opportunity for the next...

Columnist bids farewell after 15 years

Today's Wine Talk is about the 490th I have written for the Mail Tribune. It also is my last.

August 17, 2011

By Cleve Twitchell

How on earth did I wind up writing a wine column in the first place?

DO YOU TALK WINE?

If you can sniff, swirl and sip and have a talent for writing bottled up, we have an assignment for you. The Mail Tribune is looking for its next biweekly wine columnist. Email a sample column with daytime telephone number to Food Editor Sarah Lemon atslemon@mailtribune.com. Applicants should not have any commercial connection to the wine industry.

Wine was not something I often thought about when I joined the Mail Tribune staff in 1961. I acquired the taste gradually.

If you've lived in the Rogue Valley for a decade or more, you may remember my weekly dining column, The Long Weekend. It often included coverage of wines served at various restaurants. Then as lifestyles editor — a hat I wore from 1983 to 1996 — I periodically wrote feature stories about the growing Southern Oregon wine industry.

The Tribune had for years published a weekly food page and, in the early 1990s, management decided to expand it into the weekly shopper as well, calling both A la Carte.

As time went on, several people thought it would be a good idea to have a wine column. Wine columns were available from wire services, but they rarely covered Oregon wines. When they did, it was about some Willamette Valley pinot noir and never about the Rogue Valley.

So I basically said, "OK, I'll do it." I took a crack at filling the gap, writing about local wineries.

Wine Talk was born. It became a regular fixture, starting in the mid-1990s, appearing on average every other week. When I retired in 2002, I was encouraged to continue writing the wine column biweekly as a freelancer.

But there comes a time when personal circumstances suggest it would be appropriate to make a change. That time, for me, has come.

The growth of the Southern Oregon wine industry has been amazing to watch. The first local wineries opened in the late 1970s. Today, there are more than 60 of them in the Jackson-Josephine-Douglas counties region. I will remain both a fan and a customer.

A New Independent Voice in Town

2011-08-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Oregon Wine Geeks, a team of three IT professionals (though the most social IT guys I've ever met) by day, wine enthusiasts by night, have a mission to be the "independent voice of Southern Oregon wine." Their website, www.OregonWineGeeks.com, features a helpful buyer's guide, tasting notes, tour planning services, and blog of their adventures.

Recently:

Check them out!

Personalize Your Wine Collection with Custom-Built Cabinets and Cellars

2011-08-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

by Jess Huckins

Proper storage of wine bottles is crucial to the maintenance and enjoyment of a wine collection. White and red wines each have their own set of qualifications for storage temperature, humidity, and light, and it is not always easy to find the right balance while keeping the collection accessible and on display. Beginning wine collectors often find that they quickly run out of space in their kitchen wine rack. When that happens, it is time to consider upgrading to a wine cabinet or even installing a wine cellar.

The California-based company Vintage Cellars has 20 years of experience designing and constructing custom wine cellars and wine storage cabinets. They will work with you to figure out the best use of space in your home, whether you want to install a cooling unit in your pantry or turn your basement into a serious wine cellar.

If you feel like a wine cabinet will be large enough to house your wine collection (and Vintage Cellars' cabinets can hold up to 500 bottles!), they can help you decide which model works best for your home. They each have their own advantages; for example, the Vinotheque wine cabinets are virtually silent and create an ideal environment for aging wines, and the Le Cache wine cabinets come with CellarPro cooling and humidity management and are able to store larger bottles (such as magnum or champagne bottles). If you're looking for a completely custom option but do not need a full wine cellar, Vintage Cellars even offers a Build Your Own Wine Cabinet program. These kits are an easy and fun do-it-yourself project.

If even a 500-bottle cabinet isn't enough space for your blossoming collection, consider hiring Vintage Cellars to design and install a custom wine cellar in your home. Vintage Cellars recommends that customers use a contractor to complete construction on the walls and ceiling, and to help with installing HVAC ducting for the cellar temperature and humidity control system. They can refer you to contractors and work with your crew to ensure that walls and floor meet the specific needs of your wine collection. Once the cellar itself is complete, Vintage Cellars will install the rack system they designed just for you.

For more information, you can read up on wine storage techniques and information, then contact Vintage Cellars (by email or at 1-800-876-8789) for a free custom cellar design. Be prepared to discuss the style and size you might be interested in, and have an ideal budget in mind. Then, let the experts transform your wine cellar dream into a reality!

vintagecellarsonline@gmail.com

Vintage Cellars

904 Rancheros Dr. Suite G.

San Marcos, CA 92069

Big Reds & BBQ at Folin Cellars

2011-08-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night 30 (or so) guests gathered in the Tasting Room at Folin Cellars for a little lesson in BBQ and Big Reds. Hosted by Tasting Room Personality, Steve, he poured 10 wines from around the globe paired with grilled shrimp, pulled pork, and brisket - all lovingly prepared by Wine Club member and barbecuing fanatic, Gayland Durett.

I learned many valuable lessons from the evening:

Grilling = Hot & Fast

Barbecuing = Low & Slow

(many sexual references can be created to get this point across)

Gayland arrived at Folin at 5 am that morning to start the low and slow process. That's dedication. He also shared his tangy and spicy barbecue sauce recipe with guests.

Grilled shrimp and vegetable ratatouille

Steve loves prosciutto wrapped dates

Gayland debuts the brisket

Folin Cellars regularly hosts wine tasting events like this one. Get on their mailing list, so you don't miss the next one!

God King Slave Wine Release Party!

2011-08-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

Join us at our favorite local restaurant for a very monumental event.

- Chris & Christine

website facebook

Local Wine Benefits Fire Department

2011-08-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

It started with the Biscuit Fire in 2002, then the Blossom Fire in 2005, now Troon Vineyard releases their 2007 Humbug Fire Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve to support the Applegate Valley Fire District.

Winemaker, Herb Quady

Each year wildfires are a threat in and around the Applegate Valley. Back in 2002, the Biscuit Fire burned rampantly through nearly 500,000 acres of Southern Oregon and Northern California landscape, the largest North American fire in documented history. While devastating homes and wildlife, it lent a smokey character to the Troon 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve; noticeable enough to add as a title to the wine. This limited 180 case production wine sparked widespread popularity among online and private wine collectors garnishing premium prices of $500-$700 a bottle. The wine also served as a memento to the firefighters who worked hard to combat the flames.

In 2005 when another significant fire, the Blossom Fire, broke out, Troon Vineyard added a charitable component to the so named release. A portion of the proceeds (over $2,800) of that wine went back to support the local heroes of fire district #9.

"The initial donation of over $1,700 went to purchasing new pagers for the 40+ volunteers in the Applegate Valley Fire District. Pagers are our sole form of communication with our volunteers, so it was a major purchase for us. It is a constant battle to keep our equipment and devices up to safety standards, so the second donation of $1,100 went to upgrading our antiquated fire tools and hose packs to fight the wild land fires," states Carey Chaput, administrator of Fire District #9.

The latest release, the 2007 Humbug Fire Cabernet Sauvignon, continues the support of the fire department. In 2007, a fire started by sparks from fireworks burned 150 acres in the Applegate Valley. Fortunately, the ability of the crews prevented the fire from progressing in the direction of the vineyards. This release is a very appreciative and personal thank you from Team Troon.

The 2007 Humbug Fire Cabernet Sauvignon was released August 1^st at Troon Vineyard's Applegate Valley Estate and Carlton Tasting Rooms. It will also be available online and in select Oregon retail locations. It is a rich, robust wine with notes of black currant, black plum, and tobacco. Extended 28 month aging in French Oak has provided smooth texture and a long finish. Retail price: $42.

On October 1^st, during Troon Vineyard's annual Harvest Party, Fire District #9 will be presented with the first check from the wine's proceeds.

Rogue River Rafting & Wine Tour Recap - "Will Row for Wine"

2011-07-25T19:17:00.000-07:00

Twenty-two bottles of Southern Oregon wine floated the Wild and Scenic portion of the Rogue River this July 20th-22nd. Only empties returned thanks to the guests attending the first annual Rogue River Rafting & Wine Tour hosted by Rogue River Outfitters.

Guests enjoyed two nights and three days on the river paddling by day and sipping local wines by night. Rogue River Outfitters approached Chris and I to select and present the wines to pair with the evening meals. The wines selected for the trip included Troon Vineyard “The River Guide” Dry Riesling, Quady North Cabernet Franc, Del Rio Vineyards Viognier, Folin Cellars Tempranillo, Abacela Port, and the inaugural release of God King Slave.

It was an incredible collaboration to enjoy the scenery and adventure of the iconic Rogue River with the wines that are produced in this valley. - Chris Jiron

The scenery was beautiful, the wildlife was exciting, the river was thrilling, the food was exceptional, the lodging was comfortable, but the best part was the people, including the guides. We came together and are taking away lifelong memories. Wine has always been such an important tool in bringing people together and building lifelong friendships and this trip was no different. I hope we continue this trip for years to come and are able to share our regional wines in such a unique way. - Christine Collier

Dates for the 2012 Rogue River Rafting & Wine Tour have been set for July 18th-20th. The trip will have 12 paddles open and we would love for you to join us. Please email if you are interested in more information.

Rogue River Outfitters is a second generation family-owned and operated guide and outfitter service. Craig and Tina Hughson truly believe the Rogue River is one of those beautiful world famous rivers that everyone needs to see and experience. They are one of few outfitters on the Rogue providing both rafting and fishing excursions. To learn more about Rogue River Outfitters visit http://www.rogueriveroutfitters.com/ or check out their blog at http://rrorafting.com.

Ashland Food Co-Op Launches New Wine Club

2011-07-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

The Ashland Food Cooperative has neatly packaged a wine program that will stimulate the mind, palate and wallet! Here is what club members can look forward to:

First Friday comprehensive tastings of that month's Wine Club selections in the Community Classroom
Invites to quarterly Grand Education Experiences
Access to industry insider events and "eno-tourism" trips
Special case pricing on Wine Club selections
Monthly e-newsletter
Personal wine service from Wine Club Coordinator, Beverly McKenzie

Wine Club benefits are available for an annual fee of $35 for Co-op owners and $50 for non-owners. Quarterly event fees will vary; club members will receive discounted rates to events. Purchase Wine Club memberships online here or at the Information Desk.

The inaugural event will be a Celebratory Reception and a First Friday Tasting on August 5th. For more information, email your questions to wineclub@ashlandfood.coop.

The Ashland Food Co-op is Southern Oregon's first and only Certified Organic Retailer. The Co-op has a long history of bringing healthy, organic food to the community.

I sincerely hope Southern Oregon wines will be well represented in the club to spark more interest in our region. It would only make sense for a food co-op so locally focused to use that same mission in the selection of their wines.

2 Cases are Off to Float the River

2011-07-18T21:48:00.000-07:00

Chris and I are gearing up to host our Rogue River Rafting & Wine Tour with Rogue River Outfitters. Two nights, three days on the wild and scenic Rogue River.

Ahhh... this will be me soon.
courtesy- Rogue Wilderness Adventures

Here is what we are packing:

Troon Vineyard 2010 Dry Riesling
Del Rio Vineyards 2009 Viognier
Folin Cellars 2007 Tempranillo
God King Slave 2009
Quady North 2007 Cab Franc
Abacela 2007 Port

I have room for one more wine, which one should get a spot in the lineup?

Impact of Oregon Wine Industry Doubles since 2005

2011-07-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Wine Board announced results yesterday from an economic impact study showing that the Oregon wine industry's contribution to the state totals grew to $2.7 billion last year, double its impact in 2005.

The economic impact study, commissioned by the Oregon Wine Board and conducted by Full Glass Research of Berkley, California shows that the effect of the wine industry on the state's economy has grown 93% to $2.7 billion since the last study was conducted in 2005. Chairman of the Oregon Wine Board and partner in A to Z Wineworks, Sam Tannahill wrote in a recent email to Oregon Wine Board members, "I am thrilled to see this incredible growth, but also surprised as it came during a tough economic climate."

According to the Press Release published by the Oregon Wine Board, "The outlook for continued growth of the Oregon wine industry appears to be quite positive as familiarity with Oregon's high quality, artisan style of wines has increased among savvy wine consumers. Among core wine consumers, preference for Oregon wines climbed from 19% to 23% over the past five years.

In addition, wine-related jobs in Oregon totaled 13,518 and related wages totaled $382 million. Oregon's wineries produced 1.7 million cases of wine worth $252 million in 2010 and half of that sold to customers outside of the state.

When compared to its larger wine-producing neighbors, Oregon has shown dramatically faster growth over the past five years. While California's grape production grew at a 17% pace and Washington's by 21%, Oregon's production was up 38%, trailing only New York's growth.

Oregon Wine Industry At-A-Glance

Number of Wineries: 418
Number of Vineyards: 849
Acreage: 20,500
Top Five Grape Varieties: 1. Pinot Noir (12,406 acres) 2. Pinot Gris (2,747 acres), Riesling (798 acres), Cabernet Sauvignon (639 acres), Syrah (548 acres).

Read the full study.

Summer Jo's Hosts Thursday Night Wine Tasting

2011-07-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Summer Jo's serves gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner Thursday- Sunday at their certified organic 5-acre farm on the edge of Grants Pass. Their organic farm, herb garden, and on-site artisan bakery make them a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. At Summer Jo's the distance from farm to fork can be measured in footsteps for most of their fresh fare.

Summer Jo's is also featuring a variety of local wines at their Thursday night wine tastings. Here is the schedule of wineries pouring this July:

Quady North

Thursday, July 14th, 5:30-7:30 pm

Quady North with Bacchus Distributor representative, Deanna Eames, will be pouring their award-winning wines. $10 tasting fee which will be waived if you stay for dinner. No reservations required.

L. Donovan Wines

Thursday, July 21st, 5:30-7:30 pm

Winemaker Linda Donovan makes wine for over 20 labels at Medford's Pallet Wine Company. She will be pouring her personal label. $10 tasting fee which will be waived if you stay for dinner. No reservations required.

Velocity Cellars

Thursday, July 28th, 5:30-7:30 pm

Winemaker Gus Janeway, formerly of RoxyAnn Winery will be pouring his private label. $10 tasting fee which will be waived if you stay for dinner. No reservations required.

For more information visit www.summerjos.com.

Word is Out - Speakeasy Wine Dinner... Shhhh

2011-07-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

Oregon Viogniers: A Perfect Match for Oregon Cheeses

2011-07-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Six industry panelists convened at a cheese shop in Portland to taste and rate the best viogniers of Southern Oregon with the best local cheeses. Click here to see which wines were named the Best Overall, the Crowd Pleaser, the Classic Aperitif, and the Up-and-Comer.

Katherine Cole of The Oregonian and MIX Magazine reports. Read the article here.

MOTOYA NAKAMURA

Dark Chocolate and Red Wine at South Stage Cellars

2011-07-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

It might be getting into triple digits soon, but that's not stopping South Stage Cellars from hosting an afternoon of dark chocolate and rich red wine. "Hot chocolate," anyone? Pardon my lame joke. In all seriousness, join the best chocolatiers in Southern Oregon at the Jacksonville Tasting Room on July 16th from 1-5 pm.

Less than a month away- Rogue River Outfitters 2011 Wine Tour

2011-06-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

Less than a month away from the Rogue River Outfitters 2011 Wine Tour!

Chris and I are so exciting to be teaming up with Rogue River Outfitters to experience the wild and scenic Rogue River paired with Southern Oregon wines this July 20th-22nd.

The trip is two nights, three days with lodge stays at Black Bear Lodge and Paradise Lodge. We've heard rumors that the trip has already attracted some California winemakers, and we can't wait to showcase your region. Not only will we be selecting 3-4 local wines to pair with the meals each night, but the rafters will be among the first to try our Long Story Short 2009 God King Slave.

For more information, or to book the remaining couple seats, click here.

Dinner Under the Stars at Del Rio

2011-06-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

Join the Del Rio team this summer as they bring together wonderful gourmet food and wines in the romantic setting of the vineyard. You will be surrounded by the beautiful vines as you dine on food prepared by the Jacksonville Inn and sip wine from the very vines that you dine with.

When: Saturday August 13th, 2011 @ 7pm
Where: Del Rio Vineyards Park
Cost: $75.00 - Purchase online or call 541.855.2062 ext 7
Menu: Five Course Meal paired with our fine wine. Click here to view!

The dinner will be accompanied by event special prices on wine. Live music by Tim Mitchell. Visit our website for tickets and details: Del Rio's Online Store

Southern Oregon's World of Wine Festival Expands

2011-06-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

World of Wine Festival Grows!

Following eight straight years of success, the 9th Annual World of Wine Festival is expanding to a new larger venue at Bigham Knoll in Jacksonville. In celebration of the quiet explosion of wineries and vineyards in the southern Oregon region, the 2011 WOW Festival has expanded to host multiple days of events Aug. 24-27 in Jacksonville. WOW invites the entire southern Oregon region to join in the festivities and showcase the world that revolves around wine: scenic attractions, foods, art, music and theater. Come join the fun.

Visit the new web site >>

Reserve Your Place at the WOW Gala Dinner and Grand Tasting!

A limited number of tickets are now available for Saturday's Grand Tasting, $75, and Friday evening's Gala Dinner, $125. Local chefs will compete in a food and wine pairings competition Friday evening you won't want to miss! Click here for registration and more event info.

Register online for events >>

Ticket Locations

Elegance Wine Shop - Grants Pass

Jacksonville Mercantile - Jacksonville

Bigham Knoll - Jacksonville

Pacific Wine Club - Medford

Del Rio Winery - Gold Hill

RoxyAnn Winery - Medford

2011 Events

WoW Welcome Cocktail Reception
Wednesday, August 24 @ 5:30 PM

WoW Flavor Profiles Sensory Clinic
Thursday, August 25 @ 10:00 AM

WoW Smells - Good,Bad, and Ugly?!
Friday, August 26 @ 10:00 AM

World of Wine Gala Dinner
Friday, August 26 @ 6:30 PM

WoW Grand Tasting & Silent Auction
Saturday, August 27 @ 5:00 PM

A Daddy of Rogue Valley wine

2011-06-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

Dick Troon originally planted grapes in Southern Oregon because he thought he could grow them better than Calfiornia!

Troon Vineyard founder, Dick Troon is the subject of the latest article by Medford Wine Examiner, Janet Eastman. In her article, “A Daddy of Rogue Valley wine,” she writes about Dick Troon being among the first to plant vines in Oregon, his contribution to the local wine industry and his fascinating life.

Favorite Excerpts:

He tried a Zinfandel in Healdsburg that he said was “unbelievable.” He compared the crops, climate and growing seasons there to the Applegate, and “being a Scotsman, I decided I could grow better. I was correct,” he says now.

In 1972, he bought 32 acres in Grants Pass and planted the varietals he liked to drink: Zin, Cab and Chardonnay. He knew it would take at least four years for the grapes to make good wine, so he hung up an optimistic sign: “Purveyor of Fine Wines Since 1976.” His enology prediction was off by two decades.

Continue reading on Examiner.com A Daddy of Rogue Valley wine – Medford wine
Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/wine-in-medford/a-daddy-of-rogue-valley-wine#ixzz1Q2cVAkgH

Consultants Seek Direction for Oregon Wine

2011-06-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

Oregon Wine Board sees chance to change direction as search begins for Jeanette Morgan's replacement

Kate Lavin of Wines & Vines gets the inside scoop of the Oregon Wine Board's transition and plans for the future. Check out the article here.

My favorite excerpts:

Given the professional experience of both Burns and Jacob in running regional wine trade associations, one might expect either of them to be a perfect fit for the director role in Portland, but both insist they are committed to aiding strictly from a consulting level.

“Stacie and I are working to make ourselves obsolete,” Burns told Wines & Vines. “You try to set up an organization for success without you.” Burns added that meeting with members, staff and the board, reviewing past strategic plans and holding planning retreats are orders of priority that he hopes will give the incoming leadership a “road map” from which to work.

And as far as that leadership goes, “Résumés are already rolling in,” he said.

“In every opportunity there are challenges,” Tannahill said. “I see this as the beginning of a new era.”

Do you have the Golden Nose?

2011-06-16T21:52:00.000-07:00

Del Rio Vineyards hosted their 5th Annual Golden Nose Competition this past Saturday with a technical tasting of Viognier and Petite Sirah. The tasting was hosted by their contagiously passionate winemaker, Jean-Michel Jussiaume. Del Rio Vineyards has been recognized for their efforts of these two varietals by being awarded a Silver Medal for their 2008 Petite Syrah and Best in Class for their 2009 Viognier at the 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Set before us were three anonymous Viogniers and three Petite Sirahs.

Jean-Michel guided the group through the tasting instructing what varietal charateristics to look for as well as clues on how to score clarity, color, aroma, body, flavor, finish, and balance.

We completed scoresheets rating the wines on a scale of 1-20 and the overall 1-6 ratings.

Viognier #1 - very forgettable wine from South Australia
Viognier #2- Del Rio Vineyards, definitely the standout of the flight with intense aromatics with well-balanced acidity
Viognier #3- Agate Ridge Vineyard 2009 Barrel Fermented, noticeable oak and heat with more muted aromas and flavors.

Petite Sirah #1: Bogle Vineyards, stewed fruits, high in tannin and alcohol, oaky
Petite Sirah #2: Folin Cellars, the fullest bodied, great mouthful, noticeable, but well-integrated oak
Petite Syrah #3: Del Rio Vineyards, rich wine with high concentration of black pepper and blackberry flavors.

The studious attendees.

Though we weren't the winners of the Golden Nose, we did walk away with something almost as good - purple teeth!

Thanks to Lindsey and the rest of the Del Rio Vineyards staff for hosting us!