Jacksonville Vineyards

Two miles west of the Ruch township in Applegate Valley lies Jacksonville Vineyards, where visitors find amazing gardens, great wine, one happy dog, and a property rich in Oregon history. Located off Highway 238, the gravel road ascends to the estate, where 100 years before, a man in his mid-20s homesteaded the property, building his home by hand. It still stands today. His name was William Matney — one of 17 children — and he must have been a skilled craftsman and remarkable farmer. Today, the owners of the former homestead, David and Pamela Palmer, honor William Matney’s legacy through their restoration and maintenance of the property.

Prior to acquiring the property some 20 years ago, David and Pamela traveled the world and visited the great wineries of France, Italy, and Australia. David’s job as a pilot for FedEx certainly came in handy for traveling to distant lands. While touring, they picked up a serious wine bug and eventually found a cure for their wine fever in the Applegate Valley.

With blooming gardens and the home’s classic architecture, the Palmers have succeeded in creating an Oregon-style winery villa. David happened to be there to greet us in the parking lot, and after an exchange of “hellos” it quickly became apparent that he’s a jack of all trades — restoring the home, managing the vineyard, making wine, and keeping his energetic Australian shepherd, Brix, entertained. However, before you feel sorry for a guy who might appear overworked, understand that he wouldn’t have it any other way.

When it comes to winemaking, David relies on extra aging (as long as two years) in 100 percent French oak barrels to create beautiful, full-bodied reds, including cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and a true Bordeaux-style blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, and Malbec. He honors the past with an image of a Jacksonville pioneer on the label. Although Jacksonville Vineyards’ focus is on reds, David also makes a silky chardonnay. Interestingly, the old-fashioned corset-dressed mannequin pictured on this wine’s label actually resides in the tasting room!

Before leaving, don’t forget to have your camera handy for some memorable shots. The massive tree on the side of property is one of the largest madrone trees in southern Oregon. Equally impressive is the set of gigantic handmade doors leading into the barrel room and winery. But be sure you snap a picture of David Palmer, whose passion for the vineyard and the history of this property is just as immense.