Featured Winery: Elk Cove Vineyards
Elk Cove sits at the top of a hill surrounded by vineyards...
Nestled within rolling hills and surrounded by its vineyards and the encroaching forest, Elk Cove Vineyards, in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, probably has the most scenic property of all those I visited while on a recent trip to the Yamhill Valley area. The views from the tasting room and its walk-around patio trully impress.
Talk about a long-standing Oregon tradition; Elk Grove first began producing wine since 1977, making it a very venerable winery by Oregonian standards. Now co-owned by its winemaker Adam Campbell, the winery produces about 30,000 cases of wine annually, large by Oregon standards. Adam learned his winemaking skills from his father while working as a youth in the estate’s cellar and vineyards. He concentrates on producing four varietals: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Riesling.
The grounds of Elk Cove Vineyards as seen from its tasting room...
The Willamette Valley Blend Pinot Noir represents about 80% of the five Pinots produced at Elk Cove, and is certainly the most widely distributed. It sells for about $25.00 per bottle. Even this most basic Pinot Noir received a 91 points score from Wine Spectator for the 2009 vintage. The vineyard specific Pinot Noirs require special attention, and Adam prides himself on his farming skills. Adam tries spend as much time in the vineyard as possible, trying to grow the perfect fruit. He emphasizes gentle handling and unextracted techniques, aiming for purity and quality grapes. With Pinot Noir, a very delicate grape to cultivate, this presents a formidable challenge. Experts have rewarded Adam’s efforts with high praise for both the Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris wines.
Located at 27751 NW Olson Road, in Gaston, Elk Grove keeps its attractive tasting room open to the public seven days a week, from 10 am until 5:00 pm. Wine tastings begin at just $5.00 for a flight of five different wines. Bring your camera and perhaps a picnic lunch, as they have some tables outside the tasting room that would provide an excellent al fresco experience, assuming the weather cooperates. For more information, contact the winery directly at (877)355-2683.
