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Arkenstone: A Gem on Howell Mountain
Arkenstone: A Gem on Howell Mountain

The predominate varietal from this lovely winery is Cabernet Sauvignon.  It is a wonderful winery to visit to grasp the svelteness of tannins and complexity of their wine.  The winery sits at 1400 feet in elevation; and the views are impressive, matching the quality of the wine.

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Willamette Valley: Standout Pinot Noirs
Willamette Valley: Standout Pinot Noirs

Pinot Noir is a distinctive variety.  The grape itself offers unique challenges and is fondly called the “Heartbreak Grape.”  The grape presents growing challenges due to its thin skin which makes it susceptible to weather and disease.  It’s also genetically susceptible to mutations.  These mutations have led to a multitude of clones.  Today, there are at least 1000 clones of Pinot Noir, each representing different characteristics.

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Oregon Tastings to Enjoy!
Oregon Tastings to Enjoy!

The star of our visit to the Willamette Valley was resoundingly Pinot Noir.  The valley provides a rich environment for this variety to bloom – in many ways.  What is it that contributes to the quality and richness of expression of this wine in the glass?

First, what is important is the soil.  The volcanic rock, marine sediment, and loess (loosely compacted windblown sediment), which formed the vineyards of the valley, became marginally fertile, well-drained soils.  This translates to vines which need to struggle just enough during the growing season to produce a mature grape with character and complexity.

The other important aspect is the weather.  The average temperatures, along with long daylight hours during the growing season and enough annual rainfall, provide an optimal environment for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

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View fullsize Remarkable Pinot Noir from Dumol. It is plush with red fruit. I highly recommend the 2021s from Dumol.
View fullsize Tried this lovely wine last night. Blackberry and cherry with soft round tannins. A deal for Pinot lovers.
View fullsize Great opportunity to chat with Bob Biale. Black Chicken is a wonderful Zinfandel that they produce.
View fullsize Two innovative vintners having a meeting of the minds at the fabulous annual event- The Taste of Howell Mountain. On the left is Frank Dotzler of Outpost and legendary Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards.
View fullsize Awesome Somm at Audrey in Nashville! We met her at Press in St Helena. Great palate, energy and passion for wine.
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View fullsize Great wine and winemaker (Rosemary Cakebread)! Read more here: https://www.dianaswineblog.com/?p=3198
View fullsize There was snow in them thar’ hills - amazing.
View fullsize Best tasting in Temecula