The Eyrie Vineyards

The Eyrie Vineyards is a notable winery located in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States. Founded in 1965 by David Lett, also affectionately known as "Papa Pinot," The Eyrie Vineyards is renowned for pioneering the Oregon wine industry and establishing the viability of Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varietals in the state. The winery's name, "Eyrie," refers to a nest of a bird of prey, symbolizing the Lett family's aspiration to soar in the wine industry.

History

The foundation of The Eyrie Vineyards marked a significant turning point in the Oregon wine industry. David Lett planted the first Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley, defying the prevailing belief that Oregon was too cold and wet for wine production. His vision and perseverance led to the creation of the first Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley, which would later gain international recognition for its quality.

In 1979, The Eyrie Vineyards' 1975 Pinot Noir gained international acclaim at the "Wine Olympics" organized by the French food and wine magazine Gault Millau. This event put Oregon on the global wine map and demonstrated the potential of the Willamette Valley as a premier wine-producing region.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The Eyrie Vineyards practices sustainable viticulture, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between the vineyard and its surrounding ecosystem. The winery is known for its minimal intervention approach to winemaking, allowing the unique characteristics of each vintage to shine through. The focus is on producing high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of the Willamette Valley.

The vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, among others. The Eyrie Vineyards is particularly noted for its old-vine Pinot Noir, which is considered among the best in the region.

Legacy

The Eyrie Vineyards' legacy extends beyond its pioneering role in the Oregon wine industry. David Lett was a mentor to many in the Oregon wine community, sharing his knowledge and passion for winemaking. His contributions were recognized when he was posthumously inducted into the Oregon Wine Hall of Fame.

Today, The Eyrie Vineyards continues to be operated by the Lett family, with David's son, Jason Lett, taking over the winemaking and vineyard management. Under Jason's stewardship, the winery remains committed to producing high-quality wines that honor the legacy of its founder.

Visiting The Eyrie Vineyards

The Eyrie Vineyards offers tastings and tours by appointment, providing wine enthusiasts with the opportunity to experience its storied history and sample its acclaimed wines. The tasting room is located in McMinnville, Oregon, in the heart of the Willamette Valley.

Conclusion

The Eyrie Vineyards stands as a testament to the vision and determination of David Lett and his enduring impact on the Oregon wine industry. Through its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, The Eyrie Vineyards continues to be a leading force in the production of fine wines in the Willamette Valley.