La Ferme de la Forêt, Columbia Gorge (Oregon) Grenache Noir 2021

 East of Portland, the Columbia Gorge AVA straddles the Oregon and Washington border.  Columbia Gorge is known for its excellent and diverse soils brought in from the Missoula Floods over 15,000 years ago.  It is known less for its Grenache Noir but perhaps this Forest Farm — the direct translation from La Ferme de la Forêt — is onto something.  The wine’s is earthy and shows true-to-Oregon terroir with aromatic notes recalling wet leaves, dried cranberries, fig, and prunes.  The flavors offer an entirely different adventure with almost-candied freshness including cranberry, leather, red cherry, strawberry, and a touch of minerality.  The transition between the aromas and flavors is exciting and something that keeps me engaged with each sip of the wine.  Grenache Noir is much more popular on Washington’s side of the border but clearly a worthwhile expedition for Oregon winemakers.