Winemaker Notes
In comparison to the previous three vintages, 2017 was a welcoming shift back to a “more normal” Willamette Valley growing season. Thanks to an abundant amount of rain (and snow in the high country), we saw bud break 4 weeks later than 2016. The spring warmed up quickly with record temperatures in May, initiating flowering leading to a quick and complete fruit set. While wildfires blared in the Columbia River Gorge and Southern Oregon in late summer, the Willamette Valley was lucky not to deal with any major smoke issues. Harvest at Johan began mid-September and allowed for a nicely paced vintage, with no major rain or weather events to affect or accelerating picking schedules. Across the board 2017 was an incredible “schnazzy” vintage, with nice fruit concentration and bright natural acidity, offering focus and vibrancy to each of the wines. Technical: ABV 11.0%, pH 3.45, TA 5.8 g/L.