Carabella Vineyard is located on the southeast slope of Parrett Mountain in the Chehalem Mountains AVA in Oregon’s Northern Willamette Valley. The vines are planted at an ideal altitude between 500 to 600 feet. Gravelly volcanic soils-Nekia, Saum and Jory, have proven perfect for dry farming the low yielding vines. Geologist turned winemaker Mike Hallock had all of this in mind when he planted the first 49 acres of Carabella in 1996. The vineyard is Certified Sustainable, committed to using no herbicides or chemical pesticides. From his vineyard Mike produces his estate Pinot Noir, Dijon Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. “It is all about the vineyard site.” Join us Thursday after work and meet Mike and try the Carabella wines.

2011 Carabella Pinot Gris $18
Our latest ever Pinot Gris harvest. Extended clear weather well into October allowed development of citrus and floral aromas. Intriguing Asian pear flavors on the entry. The 30% neutral barrel fermentation brings some weight to the palate. Finishes nicely with crisp acidity and a hint of minerality.

2008 Carabella Dijon 76 Chardonnay $25
The Dijon 76 Chardonnay is made in a Burgundian style with minimal oak, lush texture and minerality.

2011 Plowbuster Pinot Noir $25
Dark garnet in color with vibrant blackberry and brown spice on the nose. Some black cherry and cinnamon on the entry with a soft tannins in the mid-palate and silky texture. Finishes nicely with a hint of minerality.

2010 Carabella Pinot Noir $35
This is a wonderful expression of the complex, elegant style of pinot noir for which Oregon gained its reputation. A blend of red fruit driven aromas, a bit of spice, very seamless tannins play well together. Some sultry underpinnings from some of the darker clones are beginning to assert themselves.

Winemaker Mike Hallock