Vintage 2024
The 2024 grape harvest in the Willamette Valley unfolded like a well-crafted narrative, rich with promise and potential. The weather was remarkably temperate, with days basking in the warmth of the low to mid-70s and nights cooling to a refreshing 50 degrees. This delightful climate allowed the grapes to ripen slowly, with such leisurely maturation being a boon for flavor development, ensuring that each grape was imbued with depth and character. As we observed this vintage, it became clear that patience was not merely a virtue but an art form in winemaking. The extended hang time on the vine allowed for a harmonious balance of vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidityโqualities that evoked both elegance and complexity. The 2024 wines promised to be a testament to nature's artistry, offering a collection worthy of both immediate enjoyment and future contemplation. In that season of abundance, we found ourselves on the cusp of a truly remarkable vintage, one that would resonate through time like a well-spun tale.
Vintage 2024 Notes:
Nature has been incredibly kind and gentle to us during this vintage. The 2024 growing season can best be described as "dreamy" and "gorgeous." Rainfall during bloom fostered loose clusters that are more resistant to disease pressure, resulting in tiny berries that promise deep, concentrated flavors in our wines. Throughout the summer, night temperatures remained pleasantly low, even during heat events, which will contribute to the vibrant acidity characteristic of the Willamette Valley. The cool, dry conditions from August into September allowed for slower sugar accumulation, enhancing the flavor development in the grapes. While we did face a few weather-related challenges this year, these will add an intriguing dynamism to our wines. โ Emily Rozga, Soter Viticulturist
On the farm: Over recent months, our Lead Farmer, Elena Mudrak, has been immersed in the delightful chaos of harvest season, gathering the last treasures of summer while preparing the garden for its winter slumber. As the summer vegetables bid adieu, only a few holdouts remain, flowers included. This week marks the final floral farewell for the year; we hope our broomcorn dries to perfection. In a nod to fairer weather and the vibrant blooms that come with it, weโve planted an array of spring-flowering bulbs, setting the stage for next yearโs cut-flower extravaganza. Our oldest apple tree has graciously gifted us with a bountiful harvest, ensuring that apples are back on the menu and will keep snug in the fridge throughout winter. Mustard greens and fennel are tantalizingly closeโjust one week away from harvest. Meanwhile, our kalettes, cabbages, and cauliflower are thriving and gearing up for winter's embrace.
Weโve also sown our beloved heirloom hardneck garlicโeasy to peel with generous clovesโa cherished strain we've nurtured since 2014 when it first graced our farm by our former Ranch Manager. And let us not forget to introduce the newest darling of MSR: Felicia, our adorable baby Highland cow! Both she and her mother Fiona are thriving, adding a touch of whimsy to our pastoral paradise. Head over to our social media to see the cuteness overload.
Grab this playlist on Spotify to hear what our team is vibing to in the cellar. Thereโs not as much Enya this year (sorry, Chris), but weโve definitely got some "Only Time" in the mix for good measure.