A decade ago, Willamette Valley winemaker Isabelle Meunier and business partner Greg Ralston co-founded their single-vineyard wine brand, Lavinea. Her winemaking, which includes a focus on site-specific transparency and minimal oak influence, has landed Lavinea releases on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the Year numerous times and frequently receives high scores from the … [Read more...] about Ellen on Wine: Isabelle Meunier keeps Lavinea Winery on global stage
Pinot Blanc earns attention in Oregon, British Columbia
In the last few years, I’ve tasted delicious examples of Pinot Blanc, and I wish more of them came across my panels at the competitions I judge across the country. Pinot Blanc, a common vitis vinifera variety, is often overlooked. It’s a white mutation of Pinot Noir, which helps explain why Oregon winemakers have achieved success with it. This decade has seen increased … [Read more...] about Pinot Blanc earns attention in Oregon, British Columbia
Wine, wine cocktails, good spirit pour out at Iris Vineyards Wine Bar
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. — Pamela Frye and her Iris Vineyards project, led by Aaron Lieberman, have earned a reputation beyond the Willamette Valley for award-winning wines. Now, they are creating a stir in the Eugene suburb of Springfield with the Iris Vineyards Wine Bar & Cocktails, which also tempts guests with wine-based cocktails. Imagine a supple Manhattan or crisp … [Read more...] about Wine, wine cocktails, good spirit pour out at Iris Vineyards Wine Bar
Le Cadeau Vineyard showcases 19 clones across Oregon’s Parrett Mountain
NEWBERG, Ore. — Tom and Deb Mortimer have been entrenched atop Oregon’s Chehalem Mountains since 1997 when they discovered 28 acres of previously uncultivated land on Parrett Mountain. They preserved much of the original timber while clearing 21 acres during the next two years, creating Le Cadeau Vineyard. The winery name, which translates to “the gift” in French, fit … [Read more...] about Le Cadeau Vineyard showcases 19 clones across Oregon’s Parrett Mountain
Carlton Winemakers Studio enters third decade of delicious art
CARLTON, Ore. — In the heart of Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton American Viticultural Area is an intriguing incubator that brings together startup winemakers looking to hone their craft and matches them with Willamette Valley wine aficionados seeking an experience to please multiple palates. The Carlton Winemakers Studio provides new and expert winemakers with space, equipment, … [Read more...] about Carlton Winemakers Studio enters third decade of delicious art