Cristom visit – September 17, 2009
What an amazing morning with Cristom winemaker Steve Doerner! Walking through the vineyard blocks of Cristom Vineyards put so much into perspective. The first thing that was surprising was just how steep and how much the terrain varied from one part of the property to another. Starting out from the winery, we walked up the steep hillside of the Louise Vineyard. Steve explained how the soil transitions from ancient ocean sea bed soils, to volcanic based soils, and how that affects the vines and then the wines. It was an amazing way to begin to comprehend just how unique these wines are. Walking into a fog bank that was sitting heavy in the valley this morning, we hiked up a steep farm trail leading to the originally planted block, Marjorie, which was close to ten years old when Cristom purchased the site. Much, much wider vine spacing, and sadly, some evidence of vines pulled out due to phylloxera. Further up the hillside leads us to Eileen Vineyard, some of the newer plantings on the vineyard and one of my favorite wines from them most vintages. Due the higher elevation, this vineyard tends to translate to a bit brighter acidity that dances wonderfully with the darker fruit notes. The morning was equally filled with technical wine “geek” jargon, intertwined with a few jokes and philosophy from Mr. Steve Doerner. Heading back toward the winery, we walk through the rows of Jesse Vineyard, down a very steep hillside that Steve referred to as “the best ski hill on the property.” I know where I’m headed when 2 feet of snow hits us again!
Ever heard of Willamette Valley Viognier? Cristom has some old vines and makes a stunning, crisp, vibrant one. Just below the Viognier vines sits Syrah. Again, another surprising thing to see being grown in the Willamette Valley, but you have to try these wines. They show the softer side of these at times clumsy, too rich and a bit over the top wines. Are you a fan of half bottles? Cristom offers most of their wine bottles in 375 ml format. We have a substantial selection available for your convenience.
Needless to say, after a morning like that, the support for these wonderful wines (and personalities) will continue as strong as ever! Keep your eye out for the 2005 Signature Pinot Noir becoming available soon. 3 barrels (75 cases made) of the best, most complex and striking wine of the vintage. Rare and worth every penny!