Pheasant Hill

After much searching for vineyard land we found this Southwest facing hillside in Talent, Oregon to be the perfect location to grow premium wine grapes.  The vineyard was first planted in the winter and spring of 1989 with 4 varieties as trials.  Over the course of the next 3 years we eliminated one variety as just the wrong one for this location and increased the planting of the Pinot Gris that thrives here and produces a lovely vanilla infused wine.

We increased planted acres again in 1995,1996 and 1999, all planted on grafted root stock. We used our own Cabernet Sauvignon bud wood, researched and located the very best clones of Temperanillo, Grenache and Cabernet Franc,and selected the appropriate root stocks for the varieties and the soils. There is as much science and research as old farmers’ lore involved in successful planting.  The amount of labor required is driven by pure love of the vineyard.

As the LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Oenology) program was started here in Oregon our vineyard was one of the first in Southern Oregon to join.  As farmers we are dedicated to sustainable farming not only for future productive use of the land but financially sustainable for the present generations. We neither wish to work in ourselves or subject our neighbors to excessive chemical use. Responsible water use through drip irrigation and soil moisture monitoring are essential.

The varieties growing currently are: Merlot, Grenache, Pinot Gris, Temperanillo, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Several are clones used to create balance and flavor for once again the perfect Southern Oregon wine experience. Working closely with winemakers is the best way to insure that what goes in the bottle is the best that our vineyard can provide and we are thrilled to continue that work with the current Trium owner and winemaker.

The second generation of the Lotspeich family is now in charge of the vineyard with continued support from founder Laura Lotspeich. The continued dedication to sustainability and quality is, if anything even stronger. We hope you enjoy the wine!