Sip Northwest, Spring 2019
Cowhorn Vineyard Garden Jacksonville Applegate Valley cowhornwine com I ts not just grapes youll encounter in the vineyards of Cowhorn Vineyard Garden but resident wildlife too Hidden away in the rugged foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains where the Applegate River flows this 117 acre Demeter certified biodynamic winery and farm stands out as a beacon for wild viticulture What exactly does this look like Only 29 acres of the estate are in cultivation 25 in vineyard and four for produce which reserves more than half of the land for wildlife habitat forest and riparian areas Densely planted vines race between myriad crops on the polyculture farm where husband and wife owners Bill and Barbara Steele also grow celebrity status purple asparagus artichokes lavender heirloom orchard fruit and hazelnut trees inoculated with the Périgord black truffle Plus this unexpected twist Instead of keeping wildlife out the Steeles invite it in The estate has porous borders ensuring wildlife access to natural corridors water and seasonal habitat In turn they believe the free and wild animal diversity boosts soil health and vitality Which naturally leads to great wine You can taste delicious Rhône inspired wines in the winerys most recent ecological marvel a modern 2200 square foot tasting room that was awarded Living Building Challenge certification the worlds highest and most rigorous standard for green buildings Its the first winery in the world to meet this zero energy toxin free regenerative space certification Add in the magnificent views with soaring hawks towering fir trees and the experience is wildly memorable 62 PHOTOS BY JOHN VALLS PHOTOGRAPHY THE WINES 2017 Spiral 36 Applegate Valley Aromatics of spring flowers and stone fruit followed by hints of pineapple and pear from one of the most notable Rhône inspired white blends in the region 2014 Reserve Syrah Applegate Valley Inky in the glass with black currant cassis and spice box aromas Ripe black fruits and dark cherries lead on the palate with a hint of earth and dried herbs for an energetic finish 2015 Moonraker Applegate Valley All bright fruit from red raspberry to black plum in this blend of Grenache and Syrah that calls for a dinner party with cassoulet S I P N O R T H W E S T C O M
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