The WIne

“Olé” is a word often shouted in games by players and spectators in triumph, encouragement or approval. As we tasted through the cellar last Spring, the 2018 Olenik Vineyard barrels made us want to chant, “Olé Olé Olé!”

This cuvée represents the old and the new: a Pommard block that we have contracted since 2009 and a section of Wädenswil added nine years later. Nestled at the foot of the slide region of the Chehalem Mountains, Olenik has a diverse combination of marine and volcanic soils, including sporadic outcroppings of basalt rocks of varied size. At nearly 450 feet of elevation, the heat generated by the aspect, in combination with warmth held by the rocks, makes this an early-ripening site.

Noted for its dark, brooding richness and structure, this color-saturated wine has notes of cola with spice components of ginger and cinnamon. While this is not our last vintage working with this site, 2018 marked the last year that this vineyard will be called Olenik, so here’s to “The Last Olé!”

The Winery

Growing more interesting wines since 1995: Founded 25 years ago by Scott and Annie Shull to share the joy of winegrowing, close connection with the land and community, Raptor Ridge is located in the Chehalem Mountains AVA —a natural haven for native raptors and winery guests. Visitors experience vine side tastings of Laurelwood-grown Pinots and Grüner Veltliner, as well as vineyard-designated Pinots and eclectic European varieties from four of the seven nested AVAs in the Willamette Valley. Chef-inspired pairings and yoga classes are also offered in our tranquil setting with a view of four mountain tops.

Learn more about Raptor Ridge Winery
Follow: @raptorridgewinery

All wine is sold FOB the location of the winery that produced the lot purchased. WVWA is not responsible for shipping wine. Shipping or delivery arrangements, expenses and insurance are the sole responsibility of the purchaser. Any shipment of wines out-of-state is the responsibility of the purchaser, who is solely responsible for compliance with the laws and regulations of said state.

The producing winery currently has distribution in the below listed countries and states. A list of distributors is available upon request.

USA: AK, AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, KS, LA, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, SD, TN, TX, VT, WA