VINEYARD Shea, Willamette Valley AVA
CLONES 777, Wädenswil (1A)
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Wellsdale-Willakenzie complex, Goodin-Witham complex
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel; 4% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 40% new French oak & 60% neutral oak for 15 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for 1 month in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.63
TA 5.01 g/L
AROMA
Delightful aromas of ripe red cherry, huckleberry, and orange zest intertwine with delicate floral and cedar notes, enhanced by a hint of eucalyptus.
PALATE
Concentrated black plum and dark cherry are balanced by well-integrated tannins and precise acidity, culminating in a smooth, compelling finish.
Established in the late 1980s by the grape-growing visionary Dick Shea, Shea Vineyard was among the first in Yamhill County, embodying the quintessential character of Willamette Valley’s premier terroir. This 149-acre vineyard remains a standout in our collection, celebrated for its earth-driven nuance and captivating qualities.
The 2022 vintage was fermented in 100% stainless steel using 4% whole clusters and aged for 15 months in a blend of new and neutral oak, preserving its distinctive terroir. The result is a wine with delightful aromas of ripe red cherry, huckleberry, and orange zest, enhanced by delicate floral and cedar notes and a hint of eucalyptus. On the palate, well-integrated tannins and precise acidity converge to deliver a wine of remarkable quality and texture, culminating in a smooth, riveting finish.
Fact of Note: Shea Vineyard was fermented in 100% stainless steel.
THOUSANDS OF YEARS AGO, an ice dam burst from Glacial Lake Missoula, causing catastrophic flooding across Washington, down the Columbia River, and into Oregon, carrying treasures of glaciofluvial deposits. As a result, the enchanting soils of the Willamette Valley range from some of the deepest alluvial deposits to eroded basalts to uplifted sea beds—a Pinot Noir paradise.
