Willamette Valley 1970 Vintage Report
Defining the 1970 vintage in Willamette Valley requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.
The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 18°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 7 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
It was a cool, classical season. Reaching only 1150 GDD, the summer never really spiked in temperature, favoring the development of fresh aromatics over sheer power. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (12.2°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.
Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 57mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.
**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.
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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