2020 Tempranillo
Our foray into Tempranillo, Spain's principal grape varietal, began with the planting of 150 vines on our estate vineyard in the mid-1990s. We follow the lead of our Spanish predecessors and make it in what would be considered a Reserva style, allowing it to age in barrel for at least 2 years, and then bottle aged for at least 1 year prior to release. The extended aging allows the tannins to soften and the flavors to concentrate and become more savory and complex. In an homage to antiquity, we tread the grapes by foot during fermentation to develop more texture and depth of flavor.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2020
Varietal
Tempranillo
Appellation
Eola-Amity Hills
Alcohol %
13.5
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Growing a Spanish red varietal in the Willamette Valley is a challenge, even with
our evolving climate. Nonetheless, this experiment has been a resounding success.
Our Tempranillo not only helped establish our reputation but also shaped our
innovative and adaptable winemaking approach. We use extended élevage to soften
the robust tannins of our windblown grapes, honoring and reflecting Spain’s reserva
methodology.
Vintage Notes
The 2020 wine harvest was full of challenges; it was much like the rest of the year we
collectively experienced. Although we had to contend with a pandemic, forest fires,
and excruciatingly low yields, we were graced with what was truly the vintage of the
decade in terms of fruit quality. The 2020 vintage is showing to be a powerhouse,
with ethereal texture, density, and fruit concentration. Our red wine offerings are
limited but reflect the quality we expect of the Willamette Valley.
Production
275 Case Production