“From the very first harvest in 1994, the Fries family marveled at the intensely concentrated fruit produced by their Desert Wind Vineyard—fruit perfect for crafting wines with immense structure and aging potential. In 2001, the family introduced Desert Wind wines in order to showcase this exceptional vineyard through its own wine brand. The original lineup consisted of just four offerings—an elegant Semillon and three refined reds, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and their flagship red blend known as Ruah, each with 3-5 years of barrel aging.”
— https://www.desertwindwinery.com/history
“Our 2016 Merlot was fermented in closed top stainless steel tanks and circulated twice daily. After alcoholic and malolactic fermentation finished, the wine was aged for 14-16 months to further enhance the mouthfeel and develop flavors to complement the wonderful fruit aromas. The Merlot features a rich and structured palate with flavors of cherry, vanilla, and chocolate,leading to a supple finish. Desert Wind Merlot is enjoyable on a warm summer day with barbecued meats and vegetables, or simply as a great glass of wine before dinner. Enjoy now, though will rewarded with several more years of ageing.”
“Our Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in stainless steel tanks with an average of 10 days of skin contact. After alcohol and malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged for 14-16 months, with time on French oak to add additional complexity and enhance mouthfeel. The Cabernet Sauvignon expresses flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, black currant and vanilla. Medium acidity and moderate tannins lead to a silky, but structured finish.”
“The 2015 growing season was a great one on the Wahluke Slope – warm throughout, with a sunny September. This allowed each of the components of this silky red blend to fully ripen, while retaining enough acidity for a clean finish. After fermentation, the wine was aged for sixteen months in contact with oak, allowing time for the tannins to mature and soften the finish. The 2015 Ruah is extremely rich and round, with flavors of blackberry, plum and ripe raspberry, with hints of allspice and cocoa. This lively wine coats every taste bud, providing a satisfying experience. Ready to drink now, but will rewarded with an additional year or two of cellaring. ”
“Despite its status as one of the larger wine producers in Oregon, Duck Pond Cellars remains small at heart. Originally from California’s Central Valley, lifelong farmers Doug and Jo Ann Fries moved their young family to the small Central Oregon town of Sunriver in the early 1980’s. Subsequently, in 1984, property was purchased along the banks of the Willamette River in Dundee, Oregon, where a small 13 acre vineyard was planted.
In 1990 a plan was crafted to open a small winery in Dundee. On Memorial Day Weekend of 1993, Duck Pond Cellars opened its doors to the public for the first time. The initial offerings totaled around 1,000 cases, which were mostly hand sold to their tasting room customers.
In September of 2018, Integrated Beverage Group expanded their Oregon operations by acquiring Duck Pond Cellars which included the winemaking facility and tasting room along with 315 acres of vines in the Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley and Umpqua Valley.”
— https://www.duckpondcellars.com/ourhistory
““With exceptional texture and detail, this young wine transcends the vast majority of similarly-priced Oregon Pinot Gris. Grapefruit, melon and nectarine flavors are there in abundance, with highlights of lemon zest and defining acidity.” Best Buy. - P.G.”
“No investors. No banks. Only a family, some vineyards, and a reputation to uphold. Our mission is simple: grow grapes that capture the essence of our place, and release wines of utmost character and purpose that reward the drinker every time a cork is pulled.”
“The greater Columbia Valley is a fantastic place to grow riesling. The backbone of this blend is from our Kiona Estate vineyard, where the riesling vines hold the distinction of being the oldest on Red Mountain (planted in 1975). We include components from the relatively cooler Vista and Olsen sites for layering, aromatic complexity, and acidity.
Crisp, clean and refreshing, this Columbia Valley Riesling showcases the bright acidity and tremendous fresh fruit characteristics that make Washington a world-class riesling producer. We cold-ferment to preserve fruit flavors, maximize pizzaz, and capture a small amount of frizzante in every bottle.”
