Aromas of dark cherry and spiced cranberry integrate with savory notes of baking spice, cinnamon, and subtle earthy undertones. The palate is medium-bodied and focused, featuring a core of ripe raspberry and a silky texture. It displays soft tannins and a fresh acidity that leads to a balanced finish marked by a lingering touch of red fruit and toasted spice.
Winemaker Renee Ary utilizes fruit that is 100% destemmed to emphasize purity of flavor. The wine is aged for ten months in French oak barrels, with 30% being new wood, to integrate the tannins and add a sophisticated layer of spice. This inaugural Oregon release follows an artisan’s approach, blending numerous small vineyard lots to create a wine that captures the finesse and vibrancy typical of the Willamette Valley.
The fruit is grown across several distinguished sub-appellations of the Willamette Valley, including Eola-Amity Hills, Yamhill-Carlton, and Ribbon Ridge. The sites are defined by their diverse volcanic and marine sedimentary soils, which contribute to the wine's complexity. The 2024 growing season benefited from a steady summer and a smooth transition into fall, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness and depth while maintaining the bright structural tension provided by the region’s cool marine winds.
