The 2008 vintage was a challenging year for us in Oregon. A cool spring, with a late budbreak had us playing catch up from the beginning. Fortunately, some warmer weather came our way in the summer and allow things to catch up in the vineyard. Deciding when to pick was extremely difficult in 2008, as you had to play "weatherman", seeing when fronts bringing wet weather were approaching. Our vigilance paid-off and we avoided the rains.

As we began tasting these wines in barrel we were quite surprised given the challenging growing season. The wines were quite interesting and complex. They showed good flavors and richness. Mainly for two reasons: Intense flavors and low alcohol levels. It is rare that the two show up in the same wine, but we got it in '08. The 2008 clocks in at 13.0%. This wine, right out of the gate, lets you know that it is Willamette Valley grown. Earth, mushrooms and cured meats are the first things that you will notice on the nose. As the wine opens up, there are flavors of red berries, strawberries and floral notes.

This is a complex, pretty wine with bright red fruits and herbs. The finish is bright and clean with well-focused acidity. It is drinking well now, but should continue to develop layers over the next 2-5 years.

Cases: 100
Released: 2009