View videos about the King Estate Domaine Vineyard here

In 1990, Ed King discovered a parcel of land with rich soil for growing hay to feed local horse and cattle farms. Could this be the one? Andre Tchelistcheff thought so. By 1994, over 100-acres were planted to create the most clonally diverse, soil and climate matched vineyard ever grown in Oregon.

What is Domaine? Domaine is French for “Estate.” Domaine uses only hand-grown Estate grapes that are picked at optimum ripeness and concentration. The vine canopy is carefully managed and much of the vineyard work, like crop-thinning, is done by hand. We strive for perfect fruit every year.

Hand grown estate grapes. Optimum ripeness and concentration. Canopy and crop thinning by hand - naturally. Perfect balance between vine and fruit development.

Stressed vines? It's Oregon, they see some nasty winter conditions, but the June-October window is all good. The northern latitude (44° Parallel) combined with Lorane Valley's west-east canyon like formation provides long summer days, with optimal ripening conditions. The cool evening temperatures influence the acidic structure of the grapes, providing backbone and structure for food affinity.

Organic farming. It simply makes good sense. Certification was important - it proves our vineyards are grown according to strict standards that are verified by independent organizations.

Rigorous, labor-intensive viticulture practices make it all happen. Meliton Martinez is our hero. He runs the farm with help from everyone -- we keep very busy!

Gray, copper-colored grapes that faintly shimmer in the morning dew make expressive Pinot Gris. The first glass will invite another. Small berries with silky richness, cherry nut aromatics and vivid ruby color produce mouth watering Pinot Noir.

In the future, will we farm differently? Doubtful. Healthy soils are the key to farming. Dry farmed, non-irrigated - that's us. The glass is half-full in our eyes, although we use the bottom half of the glass (Oregon winter rainfall) to keep the vines thirst quenched. 15 vineyard fans keep the critical vine bud break protected from frost danger, and we distribute thousands of pounds of organic nutrients to the vineyards each spring.

Ask any winemaker if they can make great wine from organic grapes . . . If they immediately answer 'yes', be suspicious. The key is organic grapes that are balanced in sugar, acid, tannin, seed development, and brilliant color. When our Domaine grapes show up on the King Estate crush pad - winemakers Bill & John have a look on their faces that exudes confidence.

This is epic wine growing. With unique conditions specifically suited to Pinot Noir & Pinot Gris.