The Southern Part of Oregon is an amazing part of the country. Provence like climate conditions, nestled in the heart of a very organic, sustainable, local oriented part of the US.
Within this region the Del Rio Vineyard grows great grapes, creating intense, earthy, spicy and hearty Syrah and Viognier, much like those produced in the Rhone region of France, as well as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.
The Del Rio vineyard produces quality Del Rio wine, and sells what they don’t use to some of the best wineries in the state. Here are a few ideas if you are in the mood for a tasty red, perfect for sipping on our fast approaching fall nights. Try them with Rouge Creamery award winning Rouge River Blue Cheese, or their Rosemary Cheddar to have a full Oregon experience.
Rockblock Del Rio Syrah: Willamette’s Domain Serene winery creates Rockblock wine for their non-estate varietals, and named to emphasize the difficult terrain and growing conditions they look for to create their distinct Syrahs. This one is a consistent favorite. Smoky and spicy filled with Bing cherry, chocolate, leather and plum jam flavors, and quite satisfying with a Manchego, Prosciutto, Arugula and fig panini.
Penner Ash Syrah: Predominantly Del Rio Syrah, with Rouge Valley’s Folin Vineyard, and Columbia Valley’s Lewis Vineyard Syrah, Willamette Valley’s Penner Ash winery creates a balanced Syrah filled with cinnamon, white pepper, plum, dark chocolate and black cherry. The wine ages for 15 months in partially new French oak, the wine is approachable with a hearty, savory finish.
Del Rio Syrah: The grapes the rest of the state uses, this estate version is fruit forward, well structured and balanced. Slightly lighter than the two other options noted, this one has smoky sweet spice, vanilla and berry flavors filling the palate with each sip.
Del Rio Claret: Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, this wine consistently is a winery favorite. Complex, balanced and interesting, with depth and structure. Blueberry, blackberry, currant and black cherry fill this wine, followed by vanilla, leather and nutmeg.
