Harvest Notes: Tis the Season

The Oregon Grape Stomp Championship and Harvest Celebration this past weekend (September 22nd-23rd) was spectacular, as was the weather. Hundreds of people lined up to stomp grapes and sticky juice covered feet, clothes, and the parking lot! Congratulations to Don and Lisa Soete who took home the grand prize and are off to the World Stomping Championships in Santa Rosa, CA. Our 2006 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir turned out to be the perfect wine for the excited crowd. To quote Wall Street Journal writers, Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher, from their September 7th wine column on American Pinot Noir under $20, the 2006 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir is, "Jammy and jazzy, like Beaujolais and just as delightful. Pure, clean, lovely fruit that says, 'Let's party!'" You can purchase this wine through our website or visit us in the tasting room. If you missed the event, but would like to get a play by play, the story will air this Friday, September 28 on 1190 KEX Radio. Times are approximate: 5:12 AM, 12:42 PM and 5:35 PM. You’ll also be able to see video online at 1190kex.com, search word grape.

Winemaker Report:

Harvest is just around the corner and winemaker, Forrest Klaffke, expects to start picking any day. While we still hope for a few warm degree days to complete ripening, overall the vintage is progressing nicely. Cool temperatures are slowing the ripening process but increasing the grapes flavor intensity. Currently, we're about a week behind the last two years in sugar levels. It’s looking to be a classic vintage marked by high-quality, abundant fruit with alcohol levels in balance with flavors. If you head up to the vineyard for the October 14th jazz concert you just might be able to see them picking at our Estate site.

Cheers to a new vintage!

Shelby Zadow
Marketing Coordinator
Willamette Valley Vineyards