Thistle Wines

Let's talk dirt- we are located in the Dundee Hills, an area famous for its red clay-loam soils that were deposited here by ancient floods. How does this unique soil affect the vines and the wines produced in the Dundee Hills? The temptation to get dirty here is almost overwhelming. Almost.

The Dundee Hills AVA is Oregon¹s first micro AVA as of one year ago and is over 80% "Jory" soil-type. This special volcanic soil has excellent minerality and drainage. Also, the Dundee Hills benefits from being drier and warmer than many pockets that surround it. All of these factors together combine to showcase unique characteristics found in the best Pinot noirs from this region. Our wines tend to be very focused with great clarity and complexity. Some of the descriptors are bright red fruits, exotic spices, and a gorgeous minerality in the structure.

“The volcanic, Jory soils of the Dundee Hills are ideally suited to production of world-class wines.  The Pinot Noirs are rich and complex with supple tannins while the Chardonnays are vibrant, mineral-scented and possess great structure.” -Tony Rynders, Winemaker

The Jory soils, covering the mid and upper elevations of the valley, were formed from ancient volcanic basalt. These volcanic deposits originated from lava flows over 15 million years ago, before the hills were actually formed by plate movement in the Pacific.

Jory soils are typically 4-6 feet in depth and consist of a brick colored silty, clay loam. The depth and quality of the soils lend themselves ideally to the viticulture. Grapevines’ roots are encouraged to grow deep into the earth, while the rich soils nourish the vines. These exceptional growing conditions produce consistently excellent wines.