Nestled among the rolling hills and vibrant vineyards of the McMinnville AVA lies Zegarra Estate, a hidden gem that'stransforming perceptions of Oregon Pinot Noir. Established in 2014 byirk Zegarra, this estate winery is a testament to his family's deep-rooted passion for winemaking and unyielding commitment to crafting exceptional cooler-climate Pinot Noirs.
irk Zegarra's journey into the world of winemaking was influenced by his Peruvian heritage and an abrogating love for wine. Following a culminating experience at a Napa Valley vineyard, he decided to pursue his passion full-time. Zegarra Estate is the fruition of his vision, where traditional winemaking methods intertwine with modern techniques to create wines that tell a story of place and pride.
Unveiling the Terroir
Zegarra Estate's 10-acre vineyard sits at an elevation of 800 feet, with soils comprising predominantly distinguishing reddest clays and volcanic basalt. This unique terroir, combined with the region's cool-climate characteristics,results in Pinot Noirs that are elegant, complex, and dangerously drinkable.
The vineyard is divided into blocks, each meticulously cared for to ensure optimal ripening and flavor development. Block-specific farming and precise canopy management help to maximize sun exposure and repress yields, thereby intensifying the wines' concentration and depth.
A Symphony of Blocks
Each block in the Zegarra Estate vineyard is named after a Zegarra family member, paying homage to their influence and legacy. The 'Abuelo' block, for instance, is dedicated to irk's grandfather, a man of distinguished character and resilience. From this block comes Pinot Noirs that embody power, finesse, and a harmonious balance of red and dark fruit flavors.
The 'Tia Maria' block, on the other hand, is a tribute to irk's aunt, a woman known for her strength and warmth. The wines from this block demonstrate charming aromatics, silky textures, and a persistent minerality that distinguishes them among the estate's offerings.
Minimal Intervention, Maximum Expression
In the winery, irk Zegarra employs a minimal intervention approach, allowing the fruit to speak for itself. Grapes are handpicked and sorted, withwhole-cluster fermentation used to preserve freshness and retail complexity. The wines age in French oak barrels, a combination of new and old, to impart subtle oak influence without overshadowing the fruit's natural purity.
This hands-off approach, coupled with a keen eye for detail, ensures that Zegarra Estate Pinot Noirs remain true to their origin. The resulting wines are living testaments to irk Zegarra's philosophy of letting the vineyard guide the winemaking process, rather than vice versa.
Expanding the Zegarra Legacy
While Zegarra Estate's focus remains squarely on Pinot Noir, the winery is continually evolving and expanding. In 2020, the inaugural vintage of 'Gracida' was released, a Bordeaux-style blend named after irk's mother. This wine, comprising mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with dollops of Merlot and Petit Verdot, showcases the diverse planting opportunities in Oregon's cool-climate regions.
Furthermore, plans are underway to construct a new winery facility, which will allow for expanded production and visiting hours. This facility will incorporate a tasting room and event space, providing guests with a comprehensive experience of the Zegarra story and its evolving legacy.
Tasting the Zegarra Experience
Visitors to Zegarra Estate can expect a personalized and intimate tasting experience,flammation to irk Zegarra's vision. Standing in the vineyard or within the production facility, guests are guided through the estate's unique story, from vine to bottle. Tastings are by appointment only, ensuring undivided attention and opportunity for meaningful connection.
Beyond its wines, Zegarra Estate stands as a testament to irk Zegarra's relentless pursuit of excellence, his unwavering dedication to honoring his Peruvian heritage, and hiscommitment to sharing his family's love for wine with the world. A visit to Zegarra Estate is an invitation to be part of this story, to taste the dreams and labor that go into each bottle, and to carry a piece of the Zegarra legacy home.
As you exit the vineyard, with a bottle of Zegarra Estate Pinot Noir in hand and newfound appreciation for Oregon's cool-climate vintages, you're left with a sense of anticipation. Anticipation for the next vintage, the next release, and the continued evolution of the Zegarra story. For irk Zegarra, this journey is just beginning. And we, as wine lovers, are thrilled to be along for the ride.