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Growing grapes and making wine in Oregon is unique from most other growing regions. Due to our similar climate and latitude to Burgundy, this is the region that most closely relates to ours. This page will go over some of the rules and regulations to growing grapes in Oregon, as well as overview the major varietals that are grown. Visit the Oregon Terroir link to figure out exactly what this means and how our soils, climate, location and each particular vineyard affect the wine quality. The LawTo ensure wines of premium quality, the Oregon wine industry has created rigid appellations. Oregon's appellations, formally known as viticultural areas, are federally designated and recognized. Keeping with the world tradition of defining fine wines by very small geographic regions, appellations are mandatory for the varietal labeled wines which must be made entirely from fruit grown in the states region of origin. Also, winemakers in Oregon drafted and had made into law the nation's strictest consumer- oriented wine labeling requirements. Oregon wine must be at least 90% of the stated variety, though the national requirement is only 75% for single varietals. The exception is Cabernet Sauvignon, which requires a 75% minimum. Major VarietalsAs mentioned above, Oregon shares many similarities with Burgundy and therefore the major varietals planted in Oregon are Burgundian in nature. Other varietals include those from Alsace and Germany, where we share many climatic similarities as well. The following is a brief description of these varietals. Pinot NoirBack in the late 1960's, David Lett of Eyrie Vineyards broke away from California, convinced that Oregon could grow "world class" Pinot Noir. This vision and rogue spirit lead to the now famous 1972 tasting in France that had his 1976 South Block wine receive 3rd place in International competition. Ever since this beginning, Pinot Noir has been the flagship grape for Oregon and it is the grape that defines our spirit. Some spectacular recent examples of the greatness of Pinot Noir from Oregon can be experienced from the 1999 Sineann's "Reed and Reynolds Vineyard" Pinot Noir, the 1998 "Murto Reserve" from Belle Pente. Please check out the July edition of Wine Spectator for a thorough review of Oregon's spectacular 1998 vintage of Pinots. Gamay NoirOften referred to as the "Black Sheep" of Burgundian varietals, this grape produces an intense red wine with a unique spicy characteristic. This wine has been hot with several wineries and is able to be vinified and brought to market much more rapidly than Pinot Noir. This is one to watch for in the years to come. Some good examples of this varietal can be found from Brickhouse Cellars and Amity Vineyards. Pinot GrisThis is a very exciting white varietal that is gaining momentum in Oregon and is quickly becoming the white of choice. Pinot Gris is a salmon colored varietal and its translation from French means "Pinot Grey". This wine is a favorite from the Alscase region of France and produces that wine that ranges from fruity and acidic to lush and full bodied, depending upon the year and the vinification process. Definitely check out the Pinot Gris from Raptor Ridge Winery and taste the one that started it all from Eyrie Vineyards. ChardonnayThis classic Burgundian varietal has been losing momentum over the past several years, but with the new planting of the Dijon clone Chardonnays, some very exciting wines are being produced. Much in the tradition of white Burgundies, the Dijon Chardonnays are very bright and acidic wines that are the perfect compliment for lighter meals such as chicken and fish. Try the Hammacher 1998 Chardonnay for a great example. RieslingThis grape has a very mixed history in Oregon and many of the oldest vines have been grafted over to Pinot Noir. This is a shame since some very nice examples have recently been produced, and there seems to be a modest resurgence of this varietal. This German varietal can range from a completely dry wine all the way to the sweetest of dessert wines. Additionally, this wine reflects the terrior of the estate it is grown and the characteristics can range from floral to minerally. This is a great varietal and Oregon delivers some of the best from the United States. Try the 1999 Brooks Riesling to experience the potential of this noble varietal.
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