3+ bottles $5 off with code: CAMERON

Dundee Hills, Oregon

At over 45 years of age, Abbey Ridge is one of the oldest and best vineyards in the state of Oregon.

Winery: Our oldest vineyard is Abbey Ridge located high in the Dundee Hills at an elevation range of 500-700 feet. The first vines were planted here in 1976 and, as some of the oldest vines in Oregon, they produce some of Cameron’s finest wines. A slightly younger block of Pinot noir was planted in 1990 on a hillside above the original vines. Known as Arley’s Leap, it is named after Bill & Julia’s dear, old departed dog, Arley, whose famous leap was from a second story balcony in Victoria when startled by a cat!

A second hillside at Abbey Ridge was planted to Chardonnay and Pinot noir in 1984 and it is these grapes which form the basis for Cameron’s Dundee Hills cuvées (along with additional fruit from other Dundee Hills locations). At the highest elevation on this estate one will find several acres of Pinot bianco, Pinot grigio and Auxerrois which go into Cameron’s Italian white blends (Giovanni and Giuliano).

At Abbey Ridge only organic sprays are used on the grapes. Moisture levels in the soil of this non-irrigated vineyard are managed by a rotating system of cover crops and tilled (or clean cultivated) areas. By adjusting mowed height of the cover crops relative to rainfall, appropriate quantities of water can be retained in the soil for the vines. The older vines have extremely deep roots to take advantage of moisture there during the dry, late summer months. Abbey Ridge is one of the highest vineyards in the Red Hills of Dundee and is generally harvested relatively late (mid-October for the Pinot noir and mid to late October for the white varieties). This situation produces fruit with high natural acidities and wines with tremendous aging potential. Yields average 2.0-2.5 tons per acre for the Pinot noirs (27-34 hl/Hectare) and 2.0-3.0 tons per acre for the white varieties (27- 40 hl/Hectare).

About Cameron Winery

Cameron Winery, a small family operation founded by John Paul in 1984, is dedicated to crafting high-quality, hand-crafted, and sustainably-farmed libations for discerning individuals. Located in the hills above Dundee, Oregon, their journey began in a roofless warehouse in McMinnville and eventually led to the establishment of Clos Electrique, a dry-farmed vineyard that started with Pinot noir and Chardonnay but has since expanded to include Nebbiolo and a field blend of white Italian grapes.

John Paul, the irrepressible owner and winemaker emeritus, transitioned from an academic background in Marine Biochemistry to the world of winemaking, driven by the desire to use his creative side and enjoy a sip of wine while working. With stints in Oregon, New Zealand, and California, he ultimately founded Cameron Winery, along with his wife Teri Wadsworth, and partners Bill and Julia Wayne, Marc Dochez, and Shawna Archibald. The winery's name pays homage to its location in Dundee and reflects the Paul family's Scottish Clan heritage.

At Cameron Winery, the team consists of experienced individuals, including winemaker Tom Sivilli, vineyard manager Phil London, and John's partner Teri, who brings a sense of humor to their operation. Additionally, Julian Paul is involved in label design and product development, while Tawny Paul plays an essential role in the winery's activities. The team is completed by their furry and feathered friends, including dogs, a cat, chickens, and bees.

Cameron Winery is not only committed to producing exceptional wines but also to sustainable farming practices, with a growing focus on regenerative agriculture. Their unique approach, dedication to quality, and a touch of humor make them a distinctive and beloved presence in the world of winemaking.