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A: In order to regulate the authenticity of their finest wines, the French developed the appellation system. Appellation applies specifically to the region where the grapes were grown. Some regions also regulate what grapes can be grown where; what winemaking methods can be used; how large the yields can be; etc. Most winegrowing nations have adopted their own versions of controlled appellations to authenticate quality and consistency of their wines.
Q: WHY MAKE THE DUNDEE HILLS AN APPELLATION? A:
Wine
labels can be very confusing, even for those of us who have made
the wine business a career. So how important is the place where
the grapes were grown? Well, it depends. If you are not versed in
Oregon wine geography, here’s a quick lesson on where the
Dundee Hills are located. If you were standing on the moon looking
at planet Earth through a telescope in an attempt to find the red
hills of Dundee, you would narrow your focus in this order: Earth,
North America, United States, Oregon, Willamette Valley, Dundee
Hills, and then our 1,264 acres of vineyards. The Dundee Hills is
the most densely planted wine area in the Willamette Valley. And
for a good reason. The Pinot grape varieties thrive here. We believe
that this area produces wines that are distinctive in aroma and
flavor. This is in part due to the unique combination of soil, slope,
elevation, temperature, and south to east exposure found here in
the Dundee Hills. But will you be able to taste the differences
between a Dundee Hills grown Pinot Noir and one from Yamhill-Carlton?
Maybe, maybe not. But you can have fun trying! And if you happen
to taste some black cherry fruit and earthy, spicy flavors, then
you are on to what we think makes Dundee Hills Pinot Noirs special. |
Q:
WHAT IS AN APPELLATION?