Amphora Pinot Gris, Beckham Estate Vineyard, Chehalem, Oregon 2019

Beckham Estate Vineyard, Andrew and Annedria Beckham, Chehalem

Thirty minutes south of Portland, winding roads lead to a hilltop in Oregon’s Chehalem Mountains. With steeply pitched, dramatic panoramic views, Beckham Estate Vineyard is the culmination of the evolving vision and dedication of Andrew and Annedria Beckham. Upon moving in 2004 with the intent of building a ceramics studio, they became inspired by the local farming community and in 2005 began clearing and planting the property surrounding their home. While consciously leaving riparian zones for natural habitat and wildlife the Beckhams progressively expanded the vineyard to nearly half of their 34 acres including 6 grape varietals while also constructing a tasting room, winery, and fully functioning ceramics studio. We planted and farm Pinot Noir, Trousseau Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Aligoté,  Gamay Noir and a very small test block of Italian varietals. 

Beckham Estate is likely the only winery in the world where the production of the terra cotta vessels for fermenting and aging is on-site, and is integrated with the farming and production of the wines. 

The Pinot Gris comes from an unirrigated organically-farmed vineyard (Antiquum Farm) on thin Bellpine soils (silty clay-loam over sandstone parent material) and manually-harvested grapes which are destemmed. 100% amphora fermented in vessels of varying sizes. Half the wine spent 40 days on skins and was pressed to age in acacia. The other half remained for 10 months on skins in amphora and never moved nor pressed.

Richly layered yet finely balanced, offering a tactile interplay of grip, freshness, and savory complexity. Subtle tannins and a gentle oxidative edge lend structure and intrigue, while the finish lingers with citrus peel, stone fruit, and minerality. A profound and thought-provoking Pinot Gris that bridges art, earth, and innovation.

Grape: 100% Aligoté

Organic