Open Claim Vineyards Unveils Highly Anticipated Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

This spring marks a significant milestone for Open Claim Vineyards as they release their inaugural Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines to the public. The anticipation surrounding these wines is palpable, and wine enthusiasts are eager to experience the unique character and craftsmanship that defines Open Claim’s approach to winemaking.

A curated selection of Open Claim Vineyards wine bottles, showcasing their elegant labels and the rich colors of the wine within. — The first releases from Open Claim Vineyards showcase the dedication to quality and the unique terroir of their Oregon estate.

Oregon, with its captivating landscapes and vibrant culture, has a remarkable ability to attract individuals destined to thrive within its borders. This magnetic allure, once responsible for drawing pioneers westward, continues to beckon innovators and entrepreneurs across various industries. These visionaries, driven by passion and determination, find themselves drawn to Oregon’s fertile ground, ready to forge their own paths and contribute to the state’s rich tapestry of success stories.

In 2004, this irresistible force captivated Marnie Wall’s mother, who instantly fell in love with the natural beauty and welcoming spirit of Oregon. Inspired by her mother’s enthusiasm, Marnie and her husband, Brett, made the life-changing decision to purchase property in the state just one year later. Immersed in the region’s renowned culinary scene and thriving wine culture, the couple embarked on a journey of education and exploration, delving deep into the art and science of winemaking. Their experiences, particularly during their time in France, ignited a passion to establish their own winery on their Oregon property. In 2012, their vision began to take shape as they planted the first vines for what would become Open Claim Vineyards.

Discovering the Essence of Open Claim Vineyards’ First Release

An intimate wine tasting experience at Open Claim Vineyards, showcasing the vineyard's commitment to hospitality and sharing their passion for winemaking. — Guests savor the nuanced flavors of Open Claim Vineyards’ inaugural releases.

Nestled at the base of the picturesque Mt. Pisgah, near Dallas, Oregon, lies the estate of Open Claim Vineyards. The Walls have transformed a significant portion of their 55-acre property, formerly a Christmas tree farm, into a thriving vineyard encompassing over 20 acres. This dedication to sustainable land use and meticulous vineyard management underscores their commitment to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the terroir.

The year 2014 marked the inaugural vintage for Open Claim Vineyards, yielding a limited production of sixty cases. These carefully crafted wines were then cellared, patiently awaiting their moment to be shared with the world. The highly anticipated 2015 Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have now been released for public sale, offering wine enthusiasts a chance to experience the culmination of years of dedication and passion. Although the 2014 vintage is not currently available for purchase, a special vertical tasting provided a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the distinct characteristics of both the 2014 and 2015 vintages of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

A flight of Open Claim Vineyards wines, each glass showcasing the unique color and clarity of the different varietals and vintages. — A side-by-side comparison of Open Claim Vineyards’ Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vintages reveals the subtle nuances in flavor and aroma.

The 2014 Open Claim Vineyards Pinot Noir immediately captivates with its bold and expressive nose, indicative of its whole cluster fermentation. In contrast, the 2015 Pinot Noir presents a more elegant and floral profile, showcasing the subtle nuances of the vintage. This well-balanced and refined red wine embodies the classic characteristics of an Oregon Pinot Noir: rich dark fruit flavors, a well-defined structure, and a delicate acidity that provides a refreshing lift.

The 2014 Open Claim Vineyards Chardonnay is a testament to meticulous winemaking, boasting beautiful aromatics of lemon and apple that immediately entice the senses. Its crisp palate provides a refreshing and balanced experience. The 2015 Chardonnay offers a slightly more savory profile, with a hint of buttery richness that distinguishes it from the earlier vintage. Both Chardonnays are crafted with the intention of aging gracefully, allowing their complex flavors to evolve and deepen over time. According to winemaker Tony Rynder, “If Burgundy were scooped up and dropped in Oregon, this is what it would taste like,” a testament to the wine’s exceptional quality and the influence of the region’s unique terroir.

The Power of Partnerships: Collaborating for Excellence

A portrait of Tony Rynders, the esteemed winemaker behind Open Claim Vineyards' exceptional wines. — Winemaker Tony Rynders brings his expertise and passion to Open Claim Vineyards, crafting wines of exceptional quality and character.

The Walls have long admired winemaker Tony Rynders, a respected figure in the Oregon wine industry. Rynders honed his skills at Argyle Winery and Hogue Cellars before assuming the role of winemaker at Domaine Serene. Since then, he has built an impressive portfolio, crafting wines for numerous Oregon wineries in addition to his own labels, Tendril Wine Cellars and Child’s Play. Marnie describes Rynders as “an artist” and expresses their gratitude for his involvement, stating, “We’re truly lucky to have him.” Rynders has overseen the winemaking process for both the 2014 and 2015 vintages of Open Claim Vineyards and anticipates that the 2016 vintage, bottled in March, will be “phenomenal.” His expertise and dedication are instrumental in shaping the distinctive character of Open Claim’s wines.

Anticipating the Opening of the Tasting Room: A Destination for Wine Lovers

Marnie Wall, the owner of Open Claim Vineyards, sharing her vision for the future of the winery. — Marnie Wall, owner of Open Claim Vineyards, is passionate about sharing her love of wine and creating memorable experiences for visitors.

During a private media luncheon held at Jory restaurant within the Allison Inn and Spa, owner Marnie Wall unveiled plans for Open Claim’s new tasting room. Construction is expected to commence this year, with the anticipated opening to the public for small party wine tasting reservations slated for late 2019. The tasting room will offer chef-inspired pairings and private tours of the property, providing guests with an immersive and unforgettable experience. This new venue will serve as a focal point for showcasing the exceptional wines of Open Claim Vineyards and fostering a deeper connection with the surrounding landscape.

Exploring the Wines of Open Claim Vineyards: A Symphony of Flavors

Elegantly wrapped bottles of Open Claim Vineyards wine, ready to be shared and enjoyed. — Open Claim Vineyards’ wines are meticulously crafted and presented with an emphasis on quality and elegance.

While the Open Claim Vineyards tasting room is still under construction, you can purchase the first release Open Claim wines by visiting the Open Claim Vineyards website. Currently, the wines are available in 3-bottle sets for $225. This provides an excellent opportunity to sample the diverse flavors and craftsmanship that define Open Claim’s winemaking philosophy from the comfort of your own home. It is also a perfect gift idea for the wine lover in your life, bringing the taste of Oregon’s wine country to their doorstep.

Further Exploration: Expanding Your Wine Knowledge

For those seeking to expand their knowledge and appreciation of wine, here are a few additional resources to explore:

Tendril Wine Cellars: Discover the wines of Tony Rynders’ other acclaimed label.
10 Wines to Serve at Your Next BBQ: Perfect pairings for your summer gatherings.
A Dozen Rosés for National Rosé Day: Explore the world of rosé with these delightful selections.