Stones Speak Estate Vineyard

The soils of the Stones Speak 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, resulting in wines which are savory, displaying distinctive aromatic and textural characteristics.

This high-density vineyard is planted with 1815 vines per acre. Located at the corner of Sunnyside and Winesap Roads, the elevation is 875 feet, noticeably cooler than the Funk Estate Vineyard which is located less than a mile away.

Certified LIVE and Salmon Safe.

Planted

2016

Varietals

5 acres Syrah, Joseph Phelps Clone
2 acres Tempranillo
1 acre Viognier

Location

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

Elevation

875 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 spaced 8′ X 3′, trained and trellised using a unilateral cordon system. The thought behind this training system takes into consideration the location on the valley floor makes the vines more susceptible to winter damage. Replacement canes for each vine are buried every fall protecting the next years fruiting buds. This system makes burying canes much easier and the buried canes offer insurance if cold damage does occur.

Wines Produced

The Stones Speak Estate Syrah
The Stones Speak Estate Tempranillo
Tempranillo
Estate Viognier