Willamette Valley 2021 Vintage Report
2021 was a test of resilience for the vignerons of Willamette Valley, who fought against the elements from budbreak to harvest.
Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 4 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
Summer turned up the intensity. With 15 days soaring above 35°C, the vines faced a stress test. Yet, thanks to sufficient water reserves, the canopy remained green, protecting the clusters from sunburn. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (13.5°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 106mm 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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