Willamette Valley 1969 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1969 looked destined for greatness in Willamette Valley, until the elements conspired against it in the final weeks.
Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 2 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
It was a cool, classical season. Reaching only 1140 GDD, the summer never really spiked in temperature, favoring the development of fresh aromatics over sheer power.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 198mm during the harvest period forced an expedited picking schedule to mitigate botrytis risks, rewarding those who sorted ruthlessly.
**Style:** Lighter-bodied, early-drinking wines that prioritize charm over depth.
About Willamette Valley
Oregon's Willamette Valley is the New World's answer to Burgundy. Its cool, wet climate is ideal for Pinot Noir, producing wines with earthy complexity, bright red fruit, and delicate structure.
Climatic Blueprint
Growing Degree Days (GDD)
Total Rainfall
Sunshine Hours
Diurnal Shift
Frost Days
Average Temperature
Historical Context (10 Years)
Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.
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