A winery dedicated to avoiding convention

Applegate Valley (AV), Oregon

Many a wine drinker has, and many more have yet, to experience the wonders of this burgeoning wine region. Located within southern Oregon's Rogue Valley, about 50 miles north of the California border the beautifully scenic Applegate valley is surrounded by Siskiyou mountains, which provide much influence over the region's climate and weather patterns. A myriad of natural phenomenon-granitic based soils, goldilocks location, elevation, and climate-provide all the necessary elements for world-class potential.

Serra Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

• Located in the northern portion of Applegate Valley, in what’s known as the “Kubli Bench,” a slightly warmer, drier microclimate. Wide diurnal shifts between day and evening temperatures allow for a long growing season.
• Cabernet Sauvignon vines were planted ungrafted; nearly 30 years old.
• South facing, moderate slope (three percent), elevation at approximately 1,350 feet, and well-drained, Manita loam soils.
• Longer sunlight hours are earlier in the season; with shorter, cooler days leading into harvest.
• The signature characteristic of this site is its flavor development ahead of sugar development, which allows for significantly lower alcohols, vis a vis other notable Cabernet regions.

Serra Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec

The 2017 vintage was very successful at Serra Vineyard, even with the threat of fire danger within the region. Hot days and cool nights allowed for thorough, and ultimately, very even ripening. Malbec grapes were harvested on October 7, 2017, and the Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested on October 16, 2017. Wines are powerful with plenty of longevity for ageing. Cluster counts were typical, though yields were down moderately, as clusters were very small.