Winter's Hill Vineyard

First off, I love the name — Winter’s Hill Vineyard. For me, it conjures up the image of a lone leafless tree perched on a snow-covered hill. The name, however, has more to do with Emily Gladhart’s maiden name, Winter, than any romantic notions. In 1961, her parents purchased a fruit and grain farm in the Dundee Hills. Under the guidance of Emily, her husband, Peter Gladhart, son Russell and his wife Delphine Gladhart, Winter’s Hill Vineyard evolved.

Today the Winter’s Hill Vineyard has a full 35 acres under production, mostly planted with pinot gris and pinot noir. The vineyard and the wines are certified as Salmon Safe and sustainable by LIVE of Oregon and the Pacific Rivers Council. The vineyard enjoys an ideal location facing west toward the Coast Range and experiences cool air from the ocean to mitigate hot summer days. The Jory soils, summer heat and cool nights all conspire to create superb grapes for the “pinotphiles” amongst us.

At the time of my visit, construction was under way for a new winery facility. You could see its footprint in the earth and equipment standing by. The target date for opening is 2009. The small tasting room where the family currently pours wine for eager fans and newbies will remain open. Within, there is plenty of space to sample wines, view quilts on exhibit, and shop for local merchandise from “local farmers, fishermen, and monks.” If you haven’t experienced the Brigittine Monks gourmet fudge, now is your chance. How about Trappist Abbey Fruitcake or Datenut Cake? My personal favorite, hazelnuts by Freddy Guys, are crunchy nuggets of pure joy.

Russell Gladhart’s spouse, Delphine, who hails from Lyon, France, is the winemaker for Winter’s Hill Vineyard. Armed with a degree in viticulture and enology, Delphine makes excellent wines for all seasons. Current production is around 5,000 cases. Winter is an excellent time to sip her pinot blanc and dessert wine. Spring and summer are perfect for her pinot gris and rosé. And autumn is the time to enjoy Winter’s Hill pinot noir release.

If you can’t find Winter’s Hill Vineyard wines in your community, consider joining Winter’s Hill Vineyard’s Cellar Club. There’s no charge for joining, and you benefit from significant discounts on your deliveries. What’s more, Winter’s Hill allows you to customize the wines you order. These wines are fantastic any time of the year.