Gris Gathering

Once again, winemakers and growers in Oregon will assemble to discuss “Oregon’s Other Pinot” at the second annual Oregon Pinot Gris Symposium on June 7 at Oak Knoll Winery in Hillsboro. 

Greg Lint, president of Oak Knoll Winery, travels the country conducting wine sales and says he’s learned that Oregon needs to be known for more than Pinot Noir. 

“If Oregon is going to flourish in the global wine market, we can’t survive on Pinot Noir alone,” Lint said. “Oregon must also be known for Pinot Gris, our second largest grape crop, second only to Pinot Noir.”

During last year’s conference, participants discussed climate, soil, winemaking techniques and more in regard to Oregon’s signature white. 

Keynote speaker Paul Gregutt of The Seattle Times and Wine Enthusiast urged industry members to promote Oregon’s version of the variety: “You’ve got to stop with the Alsace and Italian comparisons. It’s time to talk Oregon Pinot Gris!”

Again, Gregutt will be the keynote speaker, with more discussions led by Oak Knoll’s Greg Lint, Joe Dobbes of Wine by Joe/Dobbes Family Estate, Jesse Lange of Lange Estate, Jeff Kandarian of King Estate and Ellen Brittan of Brittan Vineyards.