Average brix at harvest 24.2
Analysis at bottling pH 3.48
TA 6.35 g/L
Alcohol 13.9% 

oris Vineyards is one of the true Pioneers of Oregon Pinot Noir. Since 1974 when founder Ted Gerber planted his first vines, Foris has continued to be on the forefront of understanding this noble grape variety. Located in the far southwestern reaches of the Rogue Valley AVA, the Illinois Valley offers a unique Alpine climate and ancient volcanic soils that create an expression of Pinot Noir that showcases finesse and purity of flavor over sheer power and weight.

Foris was one of the first vineyards to plant the now ubiquitous “Dijon Clones” 113, 115 and 375. Starting with just twenty five buds of each, Gerber patiently tended and propagated the vines until he had enough plant material to start supplying nurseries in California. Quickly word spread about the quality of these new clones. Today, many of California and Oregon’s most famous Pinot vineyards can trace their parentage directly back the original clone field on Foris’s flagship Maple Ranch Vineyard. Although the vineyard determines the ultimate quality of a wine, there are many choices that both the grower and wine maker have in shaping its overall style. One of the most important decisions is harvest dates. We have long felt that while ripe is good, over ripe is not better. We also walk lightly in our use of oak, preferring to incorporate a percentage of once-filled French oak barrels each year instead of the more heavy handed new wood. Our primary fermentations are entirely done in small, ¾ ton open-top bins that allow us to gently punch down the cap by hand. Overall, it’s a very minimal approach to wine making that respects the integrity of our wonderful fruit. The 2012 vintage was great in Oregon. A warm vintage for us, yielding well ripened fruit that is distinctive for its plush texture. Silky and rich, yet just enough restraint to keep the wine lively and well balanced. Aromas of brown spices, ripe plums, raspberries, toffee and floral notes are forerunners of the mouthful of flavors that follow. Supple tannins and vibrant acidity provide the framework that allows this wine to be both full- bodied and built for aging, perhaps reaching its peak 4-6 years from vintage.