Drink In Life

Oregon’s Umpqua Valley Wine Region-Part Two

Posted on May 31, 2023 by drinkinlife

In part one of my Umpqua Valley Wine series, Oregon’s Umpqua Valley Wine Region, I wrote about the history of the Umpqua Valley Wine Region, the Umpqua Valley AVA, the Elkton AVA and a few of the wineries found within the Elkton AVA. In this article I will be highlighting a few more wineries found in the Valley that offer a variety of wine tasting experiences.

The Umpqua Valley in Southern Oregon is a hidden gem for wine lovers, offering a diverse range of wineries that cater to all tastes and preferences. From small, intimate boutique wineries to larger establishments that offer a myriad of tasting experiences, activities, and events, the Umpqua Valley has something to delight every wine enthusiast.

One of the remarkable aspects of the Umpqua Valley winery scene is the abundance of small, family-owned boutique wineries. These hidden treasures are often nestled amidst rolling hills and scenic landscapes, providing an intimate and personalized experience for visitors.

At these boutique wineries, wine lovers can interact directly with the winemakers and owners, gaining insights into their craft and passion. Tastings are often conducted in cozy tasting rooms or even in the vineyards themselves, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings while savoring the exquisite wines.

For those seeking a more expansive and immersive wine experience, the Umpqua Valley also boasts several larger wineries that offer a wide range of amenities. These wineries often have spacious tasting rooms, outdoor patios, and picnic areas, providing ample opportunities to relax and enjoy the wines at a leisurely pace. In addition to tastings, many of these wineries offer vineyard tours, allowing visitors to explore the vineyards, learn about the grape-growing process, and gain a deeper understanding of the winemaking journey from grape to glass.

Visiting an array of wineries in the Umpqua Valley is a fantastic way to gain a greater appreciation for the region’s unique terroir and unique wine offerings. Each winery showcases its own distinct style, reflecting the passion and creativity of the winemakers.

From crisp and aromatic white wines to bold and complex reds, the Umpqua Valley’s wineries produce a wide spectrum of varietals that highlight the region’s versatility and potential. While driving through this breathtaking region, you will find yourself immersed in the beauty of the vineyards, surrounded by the essence of the Umpqua Valley’s winemaking heritage.

HillCrest Vineyard

With a legacy dating back to 1963, HillCrest Vineyard, owned by Dyson and Susan Demara, holds a special place in Oregon’s wine history as the oldest estate winery in the state and the birthplace of Oregon Pinot Noir. Founded by Richard Sommer, often regarded as the “Father of Oregon Wine,” HillCrest Vineyard has played a significant role in shaping the region’s winemaking landscape. Under the Demara’s leadership, the winery continues to innovate and pave the way for the next generation of winemakers.

The Demara family’s dedication to excellence and innovation has garnered international recognition. In 2014, HillCrest Vineyard was honored as one of the global innovators at the 900-year celebration of the world’s oldest winery, Stift Klosterneuberg in Vienna, Austria. This prestigious recognition placed HillCrest Vineyard in the company of esteemed wineries like Baron Ricasoli of Tuscany and Schloss Johannisberg, the birthplace of German Riesling. It is a testament to the winery’s commitment to pushing boundaries and producing exceptional wines.

Dyson Demara’s passion for winemaking spans over 35 years, beginning with his early career at Pine Ridge Winery in the Stags Leap AVA of Napa Valley and later at the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery. Throughout his extensive career, Dyson has owned vineyards and wineries in Napa Valley and Oregon, crafting old-world styled wines that capture the essence of their unique vineyard sites. He also travels to various wine regions around the world, including the Mosel Valley of Germany, Priorato in Spain, Roussillon in France, Sicily in Italy, and Burgenland in Austria, to make wines that showcase the diversity and terroir of each region.

HillCrest Vineyard takes a traditional approach to winemaking, combining techniques learned from working on three continents. They focus on capturing the natural expression of their vineyard sites through dry-farmed, old vine, hillside vineyards. Inside the winery, they employ patented fermenters and extended skin contact for red wines, resulting in wines of exceptional perfume and texture. The dedication to traditional winemaking methods reflects their commitment to crafting wines that honor the traditions of the old world.

Susan Demara, a vital part of the HillCrest Vineyard team, is involved in all aspects of the winery, from vineyard management to winemaking and welcoming guests. With a passion for food and wine, she enjoys exploring the world of flavors and regularly travels to expand her knowledge. Dyson and Susan, together with their three children, Hanna, Parker, and Tucker, call the Umpqua Valley home, where they live and breathe the winemaking lifestyle.

In addition to their Oregon wines, HillCrest Vineyard also produces wines from various renowned old-world wine regions. Through longstanding relationships developed over the last three decades, they collaborate with friends in Priorat, Spain, Maury, France, the Mosel Valley of Germany, and Caltagirone, Italy. These wines showcase the grape varieties that have helped establish the reputation of these world-class wine regions, including Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Lladoner Pelut, Frappato, Nero D’Avola, and Riesling.

When visiting the captivating Hillcrest estate, you are welcomed not just by the magnificent vineyards and awe-inspiring landscape but also by a tangible atmosphere steeped in antiquity and customs. Each sip of Hillcrest wine carries the legacy of the pioneering spirit that has shaped Oregon’s wine industry. It is a testament to the unwavering dedication of those who came before and a reflection of the Umpqua Valley’s unique terroir.

The winery’s exclusive wines are not sold in stores, making each visit a unique opportunity to discover and savor their limited-production offerings. Visit HillCrest Vineyard’s Website to learn more.

Abacela Vineyards and Winery

Nestled in the charming town of Roseburg, Abacela Vineyards and Winery is a family-owned and operated establishment that has become an icon of innovation in Oregon’s Umpqua Valley. Since its founding in 1995 by Earl and Hilda Jones, Abacela has embarked on a remarkable journey, specializing in Spanish varietals like Tempranillo and Albariño, and garnering numerous prestigious awards along the way.

Earl and Hilda, both scientists with no prior winemaking experience, took a leap of faith, leaving their secure careers and relocating their family over 2,700 miles to the Umpqua Valley. Their ambitious goal was to determine if the region’s unique climate and soils could produce exceptional Tempranillo wine. Today, Abacela stands as a testament to their dedication and the success of their pioneering spirit.

Situated on the 120-mile long “Thrust Fault,” which connects northern and southern Oregon, Abacela benefits from a diverse range of soil types. Earl, always the scientist, considers their property a “vineyard laboratory,” where he has meticulously matched specific grape varieties to ideal soils and climate conditions.

Earl and Hilda’s quest to uncover the absence of Spain’s renowned Rioja wines in the American fine wine scene was marked by scientific rigor and unwavering determination. Their curiosity and perseverance transformed their lives, established one of Oregon’s beloved wineries, and left an indelible mark on the winegrowing industry across America.

Currently, Abacela cultivates a variety of grapes, including Albariño, Tempranillo, Syrah, Grenache, Tannat, Malbec, and five native Portuguese varieties.

The name “Abacela” holds a special significance for the Jones family. While researching in a reference library in Bilbao, Spain, Earl stumbled upon the word “Abacelar,” an old verb meaning “to plant a grape vine.” Captivated by its elegance, he preserved the definition on an index card. Years later, as their vineyard dream materialized, they embraced this word and trademarked Abacela, registering it as their business name.

In 2020, Abacela celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their journey. Over the years, Abacela has witnessed remarkable growth, mirroring the evolution of the Oregon wine industry, particularly in Southern Oregon. When the Joneses planted their first vines in 1995, there were only 13 wineries in the region. However, according to the 2018 Oregon vineyard and winery census, Southern Oregon now boasts 135 wineries, a ten-fold increase in just 23 years. Abacela stands as the seventh oldest winery in the area, highlighting the region’s rapid expansion.

The census also revealed a shift in the grape varieties grown in Southern Oregon. In 1995, the focus primarily revolved around five international varieties: Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet. These accounted for the majority of the grape harvest in Oregon at the time. However, Abacela’s mission of risk-taking and innovation extends beyond accolades. Earl and Hilda’s bold moves and their commitment to producing an American varietal Tempranillo epitomize the spirit of Abacela.

Abacela Vineyards and Winery continues to exemplify a spirit of adventurousness and entrepreneurialism. Their unwavering dedication to research, hard work, and a touch of luck has propelled them to the forefront of the Oregon wine scene. Their story serves as an inspiration not only to winemakers in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest but also to the entire American wine industry.

As you step onto the picturesque grounds of Abacela, you are greeted by breathtaking vineyards and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The winery offers a range of wine tasting experiences, allowing guests to savor the rich flavors and distinctive character of their Spanish varietals.

With each sip, you can appreciate the journey that began with Earl and Hilda’s scientific curiosity and now flourishes into a world-class winery.

You can learn more about Abacela Winery and Vineyards on their Website.

Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards

Located in Roseburg, Oregon, Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards has a fascinating history that began when Stephen and Gloria, former owners of a marketing company, purchased the property in 2001 with the dream of establishing their own winery. Stephen’s passion for Pinot Noir led him to carefully analyze the land, matching specific grape varieties to the soil types on the property. The result is a meticulously planned vineyard spread across 40 acres within the expansive 200-acre estate.

The winery’s unique name, Prayer Rock Vineyards, has an endearing origin. During the early days of planting the vineyards, Stephen would bring his four-year-old son to the property.

Each morning, they would climb to the top of the hill and sit on a rock in the vineyard to say their daily prayer. On one occasion when Stephen forgot to stop at the rock, his son reminded him, exclaiming, “Daddy, we didn’t pray at the rock!” This incident inspired the name for the vineyard, symbolizing the family’s spiritual connection to the land.

While some wineries in Southern Oregon face challenges with extreme heat conditions, Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards has successfully navigated these conditions. The vineyard, established in 2002, is home to a diverse range of grape varieties, including Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Syrah, Merlot, Grenache, Malbec, Chardonnay, Viognier, Roussane, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Pinot Gris, Grüner Veltliner, and Muscat. Notably, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Grüner Veltliner are the largest plantings within the vineyard.

Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards has gained recognition as one of the top producers in Southern Oregon, particularly known for their exceptional Syrah and Tempranillo bottlings. The wines crafted by Steve Reustle exhibit a perfect balance of freshness, finesse, and intense flavor. Steve’s meticulous attention to detail in winemaking shines through in each bottle, reflecting his dedication to quality.

Visitors to Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards are treated to an exquisite tasting experience. The winery offers tastings in their enchanting “wine cave” and catacomb tasting rooms. The knowledgeable staff takes pride in guiding guests through the nuances of each wine, often pairing them with carefully selected food to enhance the tasting experience. The atmosphere is refined, yet friendly and relaxed, inviting visitors to savor the wines in a serene setting.

The winery’s grounds are equally captivating, reflecting the same attention to detail found in their wines. The overall experience at Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards is a harmonious blend of elegance, beauty, and thoughtful planning. It serves as a foundation for a remarkable wine trip in the Umpqua Valley region.

Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards stands as a testament to the dedication and passion of its owners, Steve and Gloria Reustle. With their expertise in marketing and meticulous vineyard planning, they have created a winery that produces exceptional estate-grown wines. The combination of stunning surroundings, refined tasting experiences, and an unwavering commitment to quality makes a visit to Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards an unforgettable journey into the world of Oregon wine.

For more information about Reustle — Prayer Rock Vineyard Winery, please see their Website.

A Couple More Wineries to Explore in the Umpqua Valley

For those looking for a more rustic and laid-back experience, the Umpqua Valley is home to several small, boutique wineries that are located in some of the most remote and scenic areas of the region as well as in the downtown area of Roseburg.

To really get the full experience of Umpqua Valley Wine Region, I suggest that you consider adding the following wineries into you itinerary.

Paul O’Brien Winery

Paul O’Brien Winery in the Umpqua Valley is a unique and remarkable establishment that owes its name to the close friendship and partnership between two talented winemakers: Dyson Paul DeMara and Scott O’Brien Kelley. Their bond was formed during their time at the prestigious Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Valley, where they honed their winemaking skills and shared a passion for both traditional winemaking practices and innovative techniques. Drawing on their combined experience and knowledge gained from exploring wine regions around the world, they joined forces in 2013 to create Paul O’Brien Winery.

Located in the heart of downtown Roseburg, Oregon, within the historic Hansen Chevrolet building, Paul O’Brien Winery has become a fixture in the Umpqua Valley. This urban winery embraces the spirit of the region while adding its own touch of contemporary flair. Since its inception, the winery has seen significant growth and evolution, continuously pushing the boundaries of winemaking in the Umpqua Valley. Through their meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to quality, Dyson and Scott have crafted a portfolio of wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region, as well as their innovative winemaking techniques.

The tasting room, provides an inviting and relaxed atmosphere for guests to savor the diverse range of varietals produced by the winery. From rich and velvety reds to crisp and refreshing whites, every wine in their portfolio reflects the passion, skill, and creativity of the winemakers.

Melrose Vineyards

Perched on the bench of the South Umpqua River, where an early French settlement once stood, Melrose Vineyards holds a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The Archembeau family, pioneers of the settlement, became the proud owners of this land through a land grant. Over the years, the site has seen the cultivation of various agricultural crops, each leaving its mark on the fertile soil.

In 1996, Wayne Parker, accompanied by the late Deedy Parker, ventured to Melrose Vineyards with a vision of planting a substantial vineyard. Wayne, with a successful background in growing grapes for raisins in California’s San Joaquin Valley, foresaw the potential of Southern Oregon as a remarkable viticulture region. His prediction proved true, as the region’s unique climate and soil composition contributed to the flourishing growth of grapevines.

The initial vineyard spanned 82 acres and was planted that same year. However, nature had its plans, and a devastating flood occurred during the first winter, washing away five acres of the fertile land. This event revealed the vulnerability of the property to flood damage and prompted the development of preventive measures to protect against future disasters. Undeterred by this setback, the Parkers persevered, and the vineyard began to yield its first harvest a few years later. The grapes garnered high praise from esteemed wineries purchasing the fruit, solidifying the worthiness of the investment in this unique river bottom site.

With their grape production flourishing, the Parkers embarked on their next endeavor: the creation of Melrose Vineyards wines. They aspired to establish a small, boutique winery.

In 2000, the first wines found their home in the barrels, and the picturesque 100-year-old barn on the property, boasting stunning views, was chosen as the ideal location for the Melrose tasting room.

Stepping into the barn tasting room, visitors are transported back in time while relishing the authentic atmosphere and savoring the delectable Melrose wines. Offering a range of twelve estate varietals, including Baco Noir, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinotage, and more, Melrose Vineyards proudly produces premium wines entirely crafted from their family-owned vineyard. The commitment to growing exceptional grapes is at the core of their winemaking philosophy, as they believe that remarkable wines can only be achieved with the finest fruit.

Meandering through the Umpqua Valley

To explore the Umpqua Valley’s natural beauty, there are several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the region’s rugged terrain. One of the best hikes in the area is the Umpqua River Trail, which winds its way through dense forests and along the banks of the Umpqua River. The trail offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills, and is a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty.

The Umpqua Valley is also home to a collection of enchanting old wooden bridges that add a touch of nostalgia and charm to the landscape. These historic bridges, some dating back over a century, stand as enduring testaments to the region’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. With their weathered timbers and intricate designs, these bridges serve as captivating relics of a bygone era. As you traverse these picturesque structures, you can’t help but imagine the countless stories and footsteps that have graced their planks throughout the years.

These old wooden bridges not only connect communities but also bridge the gap between the past and the present, offering visitors a glimpse into the timeless beauty and rustic allure of the Umpqua Valley.

A journey through the wineries of the Umpqua Valley in Southern Oregon promises an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts. The diversity of wineries, ranging from small, intimate boutiques to larger establishments, ensures there is something to suit every taste and preference. By exploring a variety of wineries, visitors can discover the unique characteristics of the Umpqua Valley’s wines, deepen their understanding of the winemaking process, and create lasting memories of this remarkable wine region.

More to Come…

I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed immersing yourself in this two part exploration of the captivating Umpqua Valley Wine Region. The Umpqua Valley has so much to offer wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, and I’ve only scratched the surface of its wonders. In the next article, get ready to embark on an easy day trips to the awe-inspiring excursion to Crater Lake National Park, where the deep azure waters of the caldera and the majestic surrounding landscapes will leave you spellbound.

Until Next Time, Cheers Everyone and Thanks for Reading!

All images and content © copyrighted by Drink In Nature Photography and Drink In Life Blog.

Oregon’s Umpqua Valley Wine Region

Posted on May 30, 2023 by drinkinlife

2 Comments

The Umpqua Valley-Part One

May is Oregon Wine Month and before these celebrations come to an end, I’m highlighting an Oregon wine region that sometimes gets overlooked by wine lovers, the Umpqua Valley.

For wine enthusiasts looking to explore a new region, the Umpqua Valley in southern Oregon should definitely be on your list. This under-the-radar wine region has been producing some of the best wines in the Pacific Northwest for decades, yet it still remains relatively undiscovered by many wine enthusiasts.

The Umpqua Valley isn’t just about the wine. This region is also home to stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains. In fact, many of the region’s wineries offer tastings with a view, allowing you to enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning scenery. Additionally, the Umpqua Valley is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking, making it the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers.

Fun Fact: The word “Umpqua” is based on the Native Americans who lived in the area, and is thought to mean “thundering waters.”

Southern Oregon Wine Country….

The Southern Oregon wine country is a diverse terroir offering a rich variety of grape varieties beyond the well-known Pinot Noir. The region comprises several appellations, including Applegate Valley, Elkton, Oregon, Red Hill Douglas County, Rogue Valley, and Umpqua Valley. These AVAs benefit from a warm and dry climate during the summer months, with over 15 hours of daylight. Southern Oregon’s diverse meso-climates and soils allow for the growth of a wide range of grape varieties, including lesser-known such as Viognier, Tempranillo, and Syrah.

Unlike the Northern AVAs, Southern Oregon’s primary soils are mostly marine sedimentary bedrock, stream sediments, and volcanic soils. The region’s soils are derived from the volcanoes of the Cascade Mountains and the accreted exotic terrane, Siletzia. The diversity in the type of soil results in wines which display unique flavors and characteristics, reflecting the specific terroir where the grapes were grown.

In addition to its diverse soils, Southern Oregon wine country boasts the world’s largest diurnal shift, with a significant temperature drop between day and night. This temperature fluctuation plays a crucial role in preserving the acidity of the grapes, which is especially important in this warmer wine region. Winters, on the other hand, in Southern Oregon are generally cool and damp. The region’s three mountain ranges and numerous rivers help to moderate the temperature and preserve the grapes’ quality.

The area is also home to Oregon’s highest vineyards, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Fun Fact: This area is better known as “the hundred valleys of the Umpqua,”. The formation of the region is a result of the collision of three mountain ranges of varying age and structure: the Klamath Mountains, the Coast Range and the Cascades.

The History of the Umpqua Valley Wine Region

Since 1934 wine grapes have been grown in the Umpqua Valley and the region’s terroir, which includes volcanic soils, warm days, and cool nights, provides ideal growing conditions for a variety of grapes. The region’s location, between the coastal range and the Cascade Mountains, also allows for a diverse range of microclimates that allow winemakers to experiment with different grape varietals.

The region’s first notable wines were produced by a small group of pioneering wineries and wine makers who recognized the potential of the Umpqua Valley and were determined to bring its wines to the world.

In 1961 when Richard Somers of Hillcrest Winery was the first grape grower to plant pinot noir, which today has become the signature grape of Oregon.

HillCrest Vineyard, still in operation today, is a family-owned winery is located in the charming town of Elkton and is known for its high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

To this day, HillCrest Vineyard is considered one of the region’s most respected wineries.

Another early pioneer of the Umpqua Valley wine region is Abacela Vineyards and Winery. Founded by Earl and Hilda Jones in 1995, Abacela is a family-owned and operated winery that specializes in Spanish varietals such as Tempranillo and Albariño.

Abacela’s wines quickly gained recognition from critics and experts all around the world, and the winery became one of the first in the region to establish an international reputation. I will be sharing more about Hillcrest and Abacela in part two of this Umpqua Valley Wine Region series.

An Overview of the Umpqua Valley AVA….

Passionate about their community and about grape growing early Umpqua industry pioneers established the first Oregon wine trade organization in 1969 which went on to become the statewide Oregon Winegrowers Association. The Umpqua Valley AVA was later established in 1984.

Here are some key facts and figures about this exciting wine region:

Location: The Umpqua Valley AVA is located in Southern Oregon, covering parts of Douglas and Jackson counties.
There are two nested AVAs inside the larger Umpqua Valley AVA: Elkton AVA and single vineyard AVA, Red Hill Douglas County.
Grape Varieties: The Umpqua Valley is known for producing a wide range of grape varieties, including Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Syrah, Tempranillo, Merlot, and Albarino.
Vineyard Acreage: The Umpqua Valley has over 3,600 acres of vineyards, with more being planted each year.
Wineries: There are over 40 wineries located in the Umpqua Valley, producing a wide range of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.
Awards and Recognition: The Umpqua Valley has been gaining recognition in recent years, with several wineries winning awards at prestigious wine competitions, including the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition and the Oregon Wine Awards.
Wine Tourism: The Umpqua Valley is a popular destination for wine tourism, with many wineries offering tastings, tours, and other experiences. The region is also home to several restaurants and accommodations that cater to wine lovers.
Sustainable Practices: Many wineries in the Umpqua Valley are committed to sustainable practices, including organic and biodynamic farming, water conservation, and wildlife preservation.
Community Involvement: The Umpqua Valley wine community is active and engaged, with many wineries participating in local events and supporting charitable causes.

The Umpqua River Bridge just outside of Elkton gives a fantastic vantage point of the Umpqua River and surrounding Valley.

Before my Media Wine Tour of the Umpqua Valley began, I arrived a few days early to explore some of the ‘Off the Beaten Path’ areas of the valley and to spend some time in the Elkton, Oregon area which is it’s own AVA nestled inside the Northern section of the Umpqua Valley AVA. In this article I wanted to focusing on a couple of the wineries found within the Elkton AVA and the AVA itself.

Elkton AVA

The Elkton AVA was established in 2013 and is located in and around the town of Elkton, Oregon. Within the AVA the Umpqua River weaves through the middle of the region, offering a cool afternoon breeze during the growing season.

One of the distinguishing features of the Elkton AVA is it’s cooler, but milder climate which allows for a longer growing season than the rest of the Umpqua Valley. This coolest AVA of the southern Oregon wine producing regions with it’s maritime climate receives much more rain annually than other parts of the Umpqua Valley, about 50 inches per year. A climate similar to the Willamette Valley is produced in this region by the moisture laden cool winds from the Pacific Ocean that travel up the Umpqua River Gorge.

The Elkton AVA in Oregon is characterized by a variety of soils, including residual clay, silt loam, alluvial deposits, and river terraces, which are situated around the winding Umpqua River. The predominant clay soils in the region have a high water retention capacity, which reduces the need for irrigation and results in lower yields.

The first wine grapes were planted in this area in 1972 by Ken Thompson and today there are about 305 acres of vineyards there. Within the AVA there several wineries that can now use the Elkton AVA on their labels including, Rivers Edge Winery, Brandborg Vineyard and Winery, Bradley Vineyards, as well as Lexème.

Lexème

Located in Elkton, Oregon, Lexème Winery and Vineyards is a testament to the passion, dedication, and hard work of its founders, Monja Hudson-Desmeules and Christopher Hudson. Monja’s journey in winemaking started in 2002 when she began acquiring winemaking and viticulture experience in the French side of Switzerland, where she grew up. Her passion for winemaking stemmed from her childhood memories of visiting wineries in Burgundy and practicing blind tastings of French and Swiss wines with her family. She eventually graduated with an Enology and Viticulture Engineering degree from the University of Applied Sciences of Changins, Switzerland, which brought her to study and experience winemaking and vineyard practices around Europe.

Christopher, on the other hand, grew up in Redmond, Central Oregon, and has always been fascinated by wine. He decided to diverge from his studies in Chemical Engineering to pursue winemaking, eventually graduating from OSU in fermentation sciences in 2006. He also had an internship at King Estate winery, where he met Monja, who was also an intern at the time. They soon realized their shared passion for high-quality, straight-forward, and truthful wines and their path led them to spend the rest of their lives together, building their dream of a high-quality grape-producing vineyard and winery.

It took the couple many years to find the land of their dreams and when they did, they partnered up with Christopher’s parents, Allan and Yvette Hudson, for the development of the Hudson family vineyard, located south of Elkton. The vineyard features south-facing rolling hills that overlook the main Umpqua River, providing the ideal terroir for producing premium wines.

In 2012 they started the planting some of the acreage in Pinot Noir and Gamay and while they waited for their own vines to mature and their grapes to grow, they began making their Lexème brand of wines with purchased grapes in 2015.

In 2018, they decided to expand the vineyard by adding Viognier and Chasselas, the main grape varietal grown in Switzerland, in a gobelet style. With extremely tight spacing of the vines at three feet by three feet, all cultivation is done by hand as tractors cannot fit in the block. The gobelet style of cultivation is renowned for bringing incredible depth to wines, with a high concentration of aromas, balanced acidity, and incomparable finesse.

In addition to these varietals, they also planted a small block of Malbec in the spring of 2018 as a trial. After a few years, Monja and Christopher discovered that there are enough warm days to get Malbec ripe on their site.

What’s in a Name….

Lexème (which means “root of a word” in french) opened it’s tasting room in Elkton in the fall of 2017 and since then has become a valuable addition to the growing Elkton wine region. The winery’s name, Lexème, is a nod to the couple’s passion for linguistics and their belief that every wine has its own unique story to tell.

River’s Edge Winery

River’s Edge Winery is a local gem and a pioneer in Elkton, Oregon’s wine scene. Established in 2000 on the banks of the Umpqua River, the winery is known for its commitment to environmentally sustainable wine production from grapes sourced exclusively from the Elkton AVA. What sets River’s Edge Winery apart is their dedication to sustainable farming practices and sustainable winemaking, which has helped the winery earn a reputation as a leader in responsible winemaking.

The winery’s story began in 1996 when Mike and Vonnie Landt purchased two vineyards, Black Oak Vineyard and Elkton Vineyard, from Ken and Mary Thomason. The Thomasons had planted the vineyards in 1972, making them some of the oldest in the area. The Landts had a vision to produce exceptional wines from the local grapes that were grown sustainably, and River’s Edge Winery was born. In 2000, the winery was built on the western edge of Elkton, just three miles from the vineyards and a stone’s throw from the Umpqua River.

Today, River’s Edge Winery offers a range of unique and high-quality wines, with a focus on Pinot Noir. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices means that they prioritize the health of their vineyards and the environment, ensuring that they can continue producing exceptional wines for years to come. Visitors to the winery can enjoy tastings in the tasting room or on the outdoor patio, with stunning views of the Umpqua River.

Bradley Vineyards

Bradley Vineyards is a family-owned winery that was founded by brothers John and Richard Bradley in 1983. With the help of family and friends, they planted over 20 acres of Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling grapes in the South and West-facing hills of Elkton. John honed his viticultural skills for 17 years, selling his crop to various wineries around Oregon before teaming up with friends Mike and Vonnie Landt, who founded River’s Edge Winery in Elkton.

John started producing a small amount of wine under the Bradley Vineyards label with the help of the Landts, and in the early 2000s, he expanded the vineyard by planting a small block of Baco Noir grapes and grafting Baco Noir onto a portion of mature Gewürztraminer vines. John also introduced a small block of Pommard, a clone of Pinot Noir. By 2013, Elkton’s wine industry had grown to include eight vineyards and five wineries, and Elkton was designated its own AVA. This marked a historical moment for John and the entire Elkton viticulture community, as Elkton was previously included in the much warmer Umpqua Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA).

Bradley Vineyards is a top producer of premium wines in Elkton, with a focus on Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling. The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and low-impact viticulture has helped it earn a reputation as a leader in responsible winemaking.

Brandborg Vineyard & Winery

Brandborg Vineyard & Winery was founded by Terry and Sue Brandborg, who are both self-taught winemakers, but despite being self-taught, they have garnered numerous awards and accolades for their wine. Their passion for winemaking led them to search for a cool, coastal climate terroir that would produce harmonious, distinct wines, which they found in Elkton, located 36 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Starting with only five acres of Pinot Noir, the Brandborgs now own 50 acres of vines, with their property rising to 1100 feet, offering a direct sightline to the Umpqua River and the Oregon coast range. Their vineyards take full advantage of the regions extended, frost-free growing season.

Brandborg Vineyard & Winery is dedicated to producing distinct, elegant Pinot Noir and Alsace-inspired white wines that exhibit pure varietal expression. With their commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Elkton, Brandborg Vineyard & Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers looking to complete their Umpqua Valley experience.

True Kitchen + Bar

When embarking on a wine-tasting trip, finding the right restaurant can make the getaway truly memorable, especially when the food and wine is perfectly paired to create an unforgettable sensory experience. By selecting a restaurant with a carefully curated wine list and knowledgeable staff, you can discover new wines and gain a deeper appreciation of the local wine region. A good restaurant can also provide insight into the local culture and cuisine, making it an ideal regional experience. I was delighted when I discovered all of these elements when dining at True Kitchen +Bar.

True Kitchen and Bar is a must-visit restaurant for food enthusiasts visiting the Umpqua Valley in Oregon. Located in the town of Roseburg, True Kitchen and Bar offers a unique and delicious dining experience that is centered around local, seasonal ingredients. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from hearty comfort food to light and refreshing salads, all made with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.

One of the highlights of the menu is the delicious local seafood dishes, which are caught fresh from the nearby Pacific Ocean. The restaurant also offers a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options, which are made with the same care and attention as the meat dishes.

When you visit True Kitchen + Bar if scallops are on the menu I recommend you order them. Everyone at our table who ordered this dish of pan seared scallops with bacon jam and risotto could not stop talking about how good it was.

The atmosphere at True Kitchen and Bar is cozy and casual, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends or a romantic date. The restaurant also boasts a well-curated wine list featuring local Oregon wines that are paired perfectly with the dishes on the menu.

If you’re looking for a true taste of the Umpqua Valley, True Kitchen and Bar is the perfect place to visit, just be sure to make a reservation as the restaurant is often busy due to its high popularity.

I hope that you enjoyed reading about Oregon’s picturesque Umpqua Valley and Elkton AVA. There’s more information still to come about my travels in this region of Southern Oregon, highlighting this must-visit scenic wine travel destination.

In Oregon’s Umpqua Valley Wine Region Part Two, I will be featuring more wineries in the region and followed by an Umpqua Valley-Off the Beaten Path article in which I share easy driving day trips and other noteworthy attractions found in the area.

As always, thanks for reading. Cheers!