The story of Erath begins in 1968 with UC-Davis-educated engineer-turned-viticulturist Dick Erath. After a garagiste project went right and professional courses were completed, Erath took his show on the road from California to Oregon’s Dundee Hills to pioneer a region where Pinot Noir would soon flourish. After planting the first grapes in Dundee’s now-famous red soils, Erath Winery made its first commercial wine production to the tune of 216 cases in 1972. By 1987, Erath was producing 30,000 cases and in 2006, Ste. Michelle Winery Estates purchased the winery. Reveled for their single vineyard Pinot Noirs, Erath recently put out another first with the 2013 Willakia Chardonnay, the first Chardonnay from the winery in more than a decade and the first from the new estate Eola-Amity Hills vineyard.
Sourced from a block of Dijon clone 76, this wine is fermented in a combination of French oak and stainless steel, then is aged on its lees for eight months in 100 percent French oak with 40 percent new barrels. Ripe fruits of Red Delicious apples, pineapple (without being too tropical), brioche, baking spices and key lime aromas are coaxed out of the glass with time and (warmer) temperatures. The oak, although inherent in its bready, warming qualities, is not overwhelming in the least bit, allowing the fruit to shine and expand in a balance act of richness and acid on the palate.
Follow on Facebook: Erath Winery
Track on Twitter: @erathwinery
