Abacela Winery: Pioneering European Varietals in Oregon’s Wine Country
Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s captivating wine country, Abacela Winery stands as a testament to audacious vision and scientific precision. Here, sultry Tempranillo, crisp Albariño, and elegant Tannat wines showcase the remarkable breadth of classic European varietals that have found an exceptional new home, thriving into exquisite Oregon wines. Abacela isn’t just a winery; it’s a living laboratory and a dream realized, inviting enthusiasts to explore a world of flavors seldom found together in the Pacific Northwest.
Oregon has always been a beacon for the intrepid spirit. Through generations, from pioneering settlers to modern-day innovators, the state has consistently drawn those with a touch of the adventurous, a desire to forge new paths, and a dedication to living life on their own terms. It is the land of dreamers and doers, where passions are pursued with an unwavering resolve.
It was precisely this pioneering curiosity that led Earl and Hilda Jones, both scientists with successful careers on the Gulf Coast, to embark on a remarkable journey. Uprooting their lives and relocating with their two children, they ventured west, driven by a singular, ambitious question: why did the United States not produce any truly fine varietal Tempranillo wine?
Tempranillo, the noble grape of Spain’s esteemed Rioja region, demands a very specific climate to flourish. It requires a relatively short growing season, characterized by a cool spring, followed by a hot, dry summer that is then abruptly curtailed by autumn’s arrival. Earl and Hilda dedicated themselves to extensive research and study in Spain, meticulously analyzing the grape’s ideal growing conditions. Their subsequent nationwide scouting mission for the perfect American terroir led them to an unlikely yet ultimately ideal location: the emerging wine region of Southern Oregon. Here, they found the unique combination of climate and soil that mirrored their findings, poised to become the birthplace of American Tempranillo.
The Vineyard: A Dream Takes Root in Southern Oregon
The vision of Earl and Hilda Jones began to materialize on Memorial Day of 1995. On a sprawling 500-acre parcel of land in Southern Oregon, which the Jones family carefully acquired, they planted the very first Abacela vines. This initial planting spanned 12 acres, marking the crucial first step in their ambitious viticultural experiment. While their ultimate goal was Tempranillo, they understood the importance of diversification and learning the intricacies of their new land.
Proof of their early success and foundational efforts can be found in a rare piece of history: one of the last remaining bottles of Abacela’s very first wine, a 1996 Cabernet Franc. This inaugural production yielded a modest 36 cases, a humble beginning for what would become an influential American winery. It demonstrated their capability and dedication to crafting quality wines from the unique terroir they had discovered.
By 1997, after years of meticulous cultivation and careful tending, the Abacela vineyard finally produced enough high-quality fruit for their first Tempranillo vintage. This landmark achievement resulted in 243 cases of what would soon become a groundbreaking wine for the American industry. The initial Tempranillo release was met with anticipation, but it was in 2001 that Abacela truly cemented its place in the wine world. Their Tempranillo earned its first significant accolade – a prestigious double gold medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. This award was not just a validation of the Joneses’ relentless pursuit and scientific methodology; it heralded the birth of a new star in the American wine industry, demonstrating that classic Spanish varietals could indeed flourish and produce world-class wines in the heart of Oregon.
A Spectrum of Exceptional Wines from Abacela
Today, Abacela Winery is celebrated for producing a remarkably diverse array of wines, with their award-winning Tempranillo wines continuing to lead the charge. The varied microclimates and soils within their Southern Oregon vineyard allow for an impressive breadth of varietals, a characteristic that truly sets Abacela apart in the regional wine landscape. During a recent immersive wine tasting and tour, I was captivated by the sheer quality and versatility of their portfolio.
Among the standout selections was the opulent 2013 Barrel Select Tempranillo. This flagship wine, which garnered an impressive 90 points from Wine Enthusiast, truly embodies the classic qualities revered in this Spanish varietal. It is a big, full-bodied red, rich with robust tannins and layers of succulent blackberry and fig, complemented by a subtle smokiness. This Tempranillo is an exceptional companion for hearty meat dishes, slow-cooked stews, or a perfectly grilled barbecue feast.
Another delightful discovery was the bright and crisp 2016 Albariño. This white varietal is another testament to Abacela’s pioneering spirit, as they were among the first in the country to cultivate it successfully. To this day, Abacela proudly holds the distinction of being the longest, continuous producer of Albariño wine in the United States, a true trailblazer in American viticulture. Its refreshing acidity and aromatic profile make it perfect for seafood or lighter fare.
Continuing their tradition of cultivating less common yet compelling varietals, Abacela also produces an excellent Tannat. This powerful red wine, typically found in the rugged landscapes of Southwest France and Uruguay, offers a bold character with firm tannins and dark fruit flavors. Its presence in Abacela’s lineup further underscores their commitment to exploring and mastering a diverse palette of grapes, proving that Southern Oregon’s terroir can indeed support an incredible range of Old World styles.
On a particularly sunny September day during my visit, the vibrant 2016 Grenache Rosé was an absolute highlight. Every sip of this delightful wine sang a lingering summer song of fresh strawberry, juicy watermelon, and bright, citrusy sunshine. It was so enchanting that I immediately yearned to purchase a whole case. While the 2016 vintage has since sold out, my desire to return is unwavering. My next visit will certainly involve securing a case of their current Grenache Rosé, ensuring a summer filled with its joyful presence shared among good friends.
The Abacela Experience: Tasting and Tour at the Vine & Wine Center
The Abacela Vine & Wine Center offers an exquisite destination for wine lovers, conveniently located just off I-5 in Roseburg, Oregon, and a short drive from the popular Wildlife Safari. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a gorgeous tasting room, thoughtfully designed with a welcoming kitchen area and private rooms perfect for intimate meetings or special events. The surrounding vineyard grounds are nothing short of stunning, providing a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable wine country experience.
To truly immerse yourself in all that Abacela has to offer, I highly recommend dedicating at least an hour – though preferably more – to your visit. Begin your tasting journey with a refreshing Albariño, and gradually explore the depth of their portfolio, perhaps concluding with their unique Port wine, a delightful surprise for many visitors. For those looking to delve deeper, complimentary tours of the vineyard and facilities are available, offering insights into the innovative winemaking practices that define Abacela. Ensure you have a designated driver, allowing everyone to fully savor the experience. Throughout your visit, take time to soak up the beautiful views, both from the elegant interior of the tasting room and the expansive vineyard vistas outside.
After your visit, I encourage you to return to share which Abacela wine captured your heart. The passion and precision poured into every bottle are evident, making each tasting a memorable event.
Plan Your Visit to Abacela Winery
Abacela Winery invites you to discover the remarkable flavors of Southern Oregon. Plan your visit to their welcoming estate:
12500 Lookingglass Road
Roseburg, OR 97471
DAILY TASTING ROOM HOURS:
11 am – 5 pm, November – April
11 am – 6 pm, May – October
For more detailed information, to browse their current wine selections, or to inquire about private events, please visit the Abacela Winery website.
My recent wine tasting and tour at Abacela Winery were generously provided as part of a Travel Oregon press trip. However, all opinions, observations, and accompanying photographs are, as always, entirely my own. Furthermore, I enthusiastically purchased several bottles independently, a testament to the undeniable quality of their wines. It’s a truly challenging task to leave Abacela without acquiring at least one bottle – their wines are simply that good!