EYRIE VINEYARDS

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Grapegrowing in western Oregon is an adventure. The climate of western Oregon constitutes the risk, and also the reason, for this adventure. -David Lett

Eyrie founder David Lett was convinced that the climate of the Willamette Valley was potentially perfect for growing Pinot noir. But exactly where was the best place to put down roots? The Valley holds a wide range of microclimates and soils, and in 1965, David had the whole valley to choose from.

In February 1965, David rented a temporary nursery plot near Corvallis, and planted the 3000 vinifera grape cuttings he gathered from UC Davis and selected growers and brought with him to Oregon. This was the first planting of Pinot noir and Chardonnay in the Willamette Valley, and the first “New World” Pinot gris.

Over the following year, David went looking for his perfect vineyard site. He made an exhaustive review of regional climate and soil, studied historical climate records and soil maps, and criss-crossed the valley from side to side and top to bottom.

After identifying the right climatic zone, the next challenge was soil. David kept a soil auger in the back of his car, and whenever he saw a likely-looking site for sale, he pulled over and dug a hole. He identified the volcanic Jory and Nekia soils prominent in certain valley hillsides as having the right combination of limited fertility and superior water-holding properties.

These soils were deposited as volcanic flows 15 to 17 million years ago. Over time, the surface of the basalt mother-rock decomposed into a red soil overlaying a deep layer of rounded and eroded basalt cobble. This combination gives Jory and Nekia soils special properties that are ideal for dry-farmed vines. The soil structure allows the constant winter rains of the valley to drain readily. However, in Oregon’s very dry summers, the underground cobbles retain enough water in their cracks and crevices to support the vines without the need for irrigation.

In addition to climate and soil, elevation and location were important. David sought a south or south-east facing site, with a sloped aspect sufficient to drain away damaging spring frosts. The elevation had to be high enough to access the volcanic soils of the slopes, but low enough for heat to ripen the grapes.

In 1966, David finally found what he was looking for – a gentle 20-acre south-facing slope at the south end of the Dundee Hills. That fall, David and his new bride Diana began the process of pulling out the old trees in the derelict orchard, preparing the ground, and moving the young grape plants up from their temporary nursery site.

Inspired by a pair of red-tailed hawks who made their nest (eyrie) in the fir trees at the top of the vineyard site, David and Diana christened their fledgling endeavor The Eyrie Vineyard. This original planting was the first of our five estate vineyards.

These five vineyards are all situated on south-facing slopes in the Dundee Hills, with plantings at varying altitudes.

Website