Winemaker's Journal

The arrival of May's warm weather was a welcome surprise for all of us. After what felt like a decade's worth of cold, wet spring, the clouds finally broke into the warmest May we have seen in 15 years. The vines quickly compensated for lost time and matched, then surpassed long-term GDD averages. Long-time Willamette residents say they have never seen so much healthy growth so quickly. In mid-June, we are setting up for a perfect Pinot Noir harvest. 

And while we're already starting to prepare for the 2023 vintage, the shining sun and long days bring an extra moment to reflect on the last harvest. 2022 wines are classic Oregon. Pinot Gris is edgy, crisp, and full of melon; Rosé is delicate with hints of floral and peach. Pinot Noir barrels are just starting to mellow and soften after seven months in barrels. The wines were so tight and full of acid after harvest; tasting them now is like seeing a flower blossom open up. They will need time, and I'm happy to give it to them.