Mahonia Vineyard
4985 Battle Creek Rd. SE # 205 Salem
(503) 585-8789, (503) 926-4613
Mahonia Vineyard is a small eco-friendly operation powered by solar and biodiesel. Because of their small size and sustainable practices, Mahonia produces a very limited amount of wine. In past years, they’ve made only 50-100 case) and they’ve sold out so fast that many Salem wine drinkers may not have had a chance to try the label.
Mahonia has been trying to increase production, and between November 2010 and Spring 2011, 450 cases of their 2009 vintages will be released. This is not a very large amount for a winery, but a record for Mahonia. The Pinot Noir and the Chardonnay won’t be available until the Spring, but the 2009 Pinot Gris will be released just in time for Thanksgiving.
“We’re really excited about it. It’s a wonderful wine to complement Thanksgiving dinner. Pinot gris pairs beautifully with turkey! It also pairs nicely with seafood, light pastas and cheese and cracker combinations. Since this wine is fairly acidic itself, avoid pairing with foods that have high acid contents, like citrus fruits or tomato-based recipes,” said Travis Henry, vice president.
He said the 2009 vintage went through a late-September hot spell followed by cool final ripening conditions, which “led to beautifully ripened fruit with perfect acid and pH balance.” Mahonia’s 2009 Pinot Gris was fermented in stainless steel half the time and half the time in oak.
Henry’s tasting notes read: “A bright, medium-bodied wine with mineral notes, citrus fruit and spice flavors. Aromas of apple, pear, citrus, and orange blossom persist through to a clean, crisp palate with subtle notes of vanilla.”
Mahonia doesn’t have a tasting room yet and the supply of 2009 Pinot Gris is limited (150 cases, with much of it leaving the area for Portland and Eugene). But Henry said, “We are a Salem company and there will always be wine for this market.” The Pinot Gris is only available at the vineyard’s office and delivery is available. The price is $16.00 per bottle with a 10% discount for 6 bottles and 20% case discounts.
“Part of the challenge of being a small producer is getting in front of people, reaching people who may have a distinct interest in our earth friendly farming practices, our support of charitable organizations and of course, our delicious wines!” said Henry.
