Bill and Susan Sokol Blosser planted their first vines in 1971 in the Dundee Hills. Back then there was no Oregon wine industry. Now Dundee, in the heart of the Willamette Valley, is the epicentre of Oregon Pinot Noir.

Sokol Blosser estate vineyards are farmed organically and receivde full USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) organic certification in 2005. Local organic straw, organic cow and horse manure, grape pomace from the crush and organic rock phosphate contribute to the composting. The insect population is kept in check by a resident flock of bluebirds.

The vineyards have been certified “green” by LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology, an international certification).  And the underground barrel cellar, built to US Green Building Council standards, became the first winery in the country to earn the prestigious LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

Introducing Evolution red. This Syrah-based blend (with some Montepulciano, Sangiovese and the nine Evo white grapes) reveals aromas of cherry and red plum, notes of ripe raspberries, a hint of cinnamon, and has a finish that’s long and juicy. It contrives, without apparently contriving, to be pleasurable and serious, the sort of wine designed to light your (barbecue) wine. It’s a friend to grilled meats, barbecued chicken, Italian red sauce dishes, pizza, cioppino and even a fine ratatouille. The label alone is worth the price of admission.