A decade ago, Richard and Pat Ellis chose Southern Oregon over the Bay Area, purchasing this decade-old Ashland vineyard in 2003. The first vines they added were 2 acres of Geneva and clone 01 Viognier at this 1,600-foot elevation site, and those blocks have helped put Pebblestone Cellars on the map. Bryan Wilson crafts the wines for the family, and he uses oak on this floral white Rhône grape, which allows for a full expression of orange Creamcicle, white peach and Spanish almond. Tangerine acidity keeps it crisp and makes it friendly with a plate of artisan cheese and charcuterie, shellfish in cream sauces or Asian fare. Earlier this year, Pebblestone made headlines by winning best of class at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition with this Viognier. And that was no fluke. The 2013 vintage grabbed gold at the Chronicle in 2015. Look for this in Southern Oregon at the Jacksonville Inn, Market of Choice in Ashland or Harry and David’s Country Store in Medford.
Rating: Recommended
Production: 300 cases
Alcohol: 14.3%
Leave a Reply