Funk Estate Vineyard

The soils of the Funk Estate Vineyard consist of very deep, excessively drained soils formed in basaltic alluvium mixed with loess at the surface. These soils contain a large fraction of basalt cobbles and unique geochemical signature (particularly higher levels of Iron), resulting in wines which are savory, with notes of roasted meat, olive tapenade, flowers and mineral. Syrah clearly excels under these conditions displaying distinctive aromatic and textural characteristics.

The vineyard is situated on a warmer portion of The Rocks District, with a gentle slope which provides good air drainage. The Rocks District vineyards tend to bud break early and then slow down considerably during the final ripening phase due to a significant diurnal temperature swing. The average annual precipitation is 11 inches. The site is located near the apex of the alluvial fan and sits an elevation of 965 feet, it is considered the warmer area of The Rocks District.

Certified LIVE and Salmon Safe.

Planted

2007, 2017

Varietals

5 acres Syrah, Joseph Phelps Clone
5 acres Cabernet Sauvignon

Location

The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater on the South side of the Walla Walla Valley AVA in Oregon.

Elevation

959-969 feet

Soil Type

Freewater very cobbly loam:  Soils of the Freewater series are comprised mainly of basaltic alluvium derived from the erosion of the Blue Mountains. The course rocky nature of these soils provides many key viticultural advantages, such as excellent drainage, higher levels of essential nutrients, low risk of erosion, absorption and storage of heat reducing risk of frost in late spring.

Climate

The vineyard is situated on a warmer portion of The Rocks District, with a gentle slope which provides good air drainage. The Rocks District vineyards tend to bud break early and then slow down considerably during the final ripening phase due to a significant diurnal temperature swing. The average annual precipitation is 11 inches.

Trellis

The vines are trellised and trained using a quadrilateral system. The benefits of this system include easily controlled light exposure and air flow, reduced labor for canopy management, and most importantly, lighter cluster weights and smaller grape berries. This system has resulted in high quality wines that consistently showcase the distinctive, seductive aromas, flavors and textures of The Funk Estate Vineyard terroir.

Wines Produced

The Funk Estate Syrah
The Funk Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
The Funk Hunt & Gather Red Wine