Day 5 More Umpqua
Our second day in the Umpqua began at Spangler Vineyards, where they concentrate on Bordeaux varieties, then we headed to Abacela where they specialize in Spanish Varieties.
General Manager Gavin Joll gave us the history of this winery where research and science are key. We tasted through Albarinos and Tempranillos, alongside a cheese board with local artisan and Spanish cheeses.
Veraison had begun here and we snuck into the vineyard to take a peek at the purpling berries.
Our next stop was the family-owned Delfino Vineyards where owners Jim and Terri Delfino walked us through their history and their wines.
Then it was onto Melrose Vineyards where Wayne Parker opened their doors and welcomed us like family. We enjoyed a delicious vegetarian lunch and were invited to pair it with any of the over a dozen wines that they currently have in their lineup.
We next visited Hillcrest Vineyard, the first commercial winery in Oregon, that is now run by Dyson DeMara. Dyson brings a vast education and understanding of wine from around the world and translates that into an in-depth exploration of the terroir of this region, through the use of concrete fermenters, and extended maceration.
Dyson is also part owner of our next stop, the Urban Winery, Paul O’Brien. Winemaker, Scott Kelly walked us through their renovated Chevy Dealership gone winery and we even did some barrel tasting.
We finished our visit in their beautiful tasting room sipping their Malmsey (their nod to the sweet wines of Madeira)
Our last wine stop of the day was Trella, located in a historic building on Jackson Street in downtown Roseburg. This building dates back to 1913.
Dinner was at Catch 22 where they serve elevated fish and chips in a renovated church.