According to Merriam Webster, an analemma is defined as, “a plot or graph of the position of the sun in the sky at a certain time of day (as noon) at one locale measured throughout the year that has the shape of a figure 8; also : a scale (as on a globe or sundial) based on such a plot that shows the sun’s position for each day of the year or that allows local mean time to be determined”. Every spot in the world has a different analemma and it is the sun’s version of a fingerprint. As we all know, nothing is as unique as our fingerprints.
At Analemma in Mosier, Oregon, they strive to exemplify the unique characteristics of the grapes they grow. To them, the analemma not only serves as a beacon for the unique qualities that each place on earth has; it also serves as a connection between what is above and below the sites they have chosen for their grape-growing ventures. This connection gives them a way to balance the ecosystem with their method of farming.
I was invited to join the owners of Analemma, Steve and Kris, along with about 10 other writers, at the release party for their Blanc de Noir Sparkling wine on Nov. 14th. Before the festivities began, we were treated to a private tasting with Steve to learn about the wines.
The first wine poured was the 2011 Rosé. This wine was stunning. The color was so pale, that you would think it was a white. The aging of this wine left it with stunning acids and hints of yeast, petrol and a floral characteristic that I couldn’t place. This is the sister wine to the Blanc de Noir that was recently released.
Next, we had the 2014 Rosé for comparison purposes. In comparison to the ’11, which was soft and elegant, the ’14 was lively and bright. An abundance of strawberries and melon were prominent on the palate. To soften the acids, this wine did see some malolactic fermentation, but the malo notes weren’t easily noticed.
After the rosé’s, we had the 2013 Gewürztraminer. This was my favorite, with hints of baking spice and honeysuckle on the nose, and a spicy, yet sweet palate. This is more of a Germanic expression of the grape, versus the Alsatian expression that is often produced. My notes, beyond the characteristics simply read “Amazing wine”.
The final wine before the main event was the 2013 Oak Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir. I could honestly just sit and smell this lovely wine for days on end, as the nose emanated dark fruit and warm spices. On the palate, there was a bright acidity and a prominent cherry note.
The 2011 Blanc de Noirs is STUNNING. It is everything that the 2011 Rosé has, but with the addition of bubbles. Yeast, stunning acids and that yeasty, petrol-y and floral characteristic come together for a wonderful experience.
Some other photos from the event:
Disclaimer: As a member of media, I was invited to this event at no cost in exchange for an article.
That Gewürztraminer does indeed sound amazing!!
I’m not sure I quite grasped what an analemma is (science and maths aren’t my strong points!) but it sounds similar to my new wine label’s concept – Aphelion which is the furthest point in a planet’s orbit away from the sun. Our 2012 trip to Oregon was one of discovery, we fell in love with the fine pinot. Also took a walk at Colombia Gorge, and a brief few moments in Washington State! Great post! Feel free to share it, or any other wine related posts on my monthly #WINENOT blog post sharing service. Cheers, Louise @ WillungaWino.com
Another winery for my to-visit list! Great description.
Although I do not drink wine, your article was very interesting. A very good review.
Thank you! If you ever get a chance to travel to the Columbia Gorge AVA (wholly within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area), I highly recommend it! There’s more than wine there. Hood River has a great food scene, there are miles upon miles of hiking trails, and let’s not forget the Hood River Fruit Loop, with all the cherry and apple orchards!