At the heart of the picturesque Yamhill-Carlton AVA lies Kramer Vineyards, a family-owned winery dedicated to crafting exceptional wines that capture the essence of Oregon’s unique terroir. As a second-generation operation, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to small-lot winemaking, sustainable viticulture, and a relentless pursuit of quality.
Winery Characteristics
Winery Size and Production
With a modest estate vineyard spanning just 22 acres, we have intentionally chosen to remain a boutique-scale operation. This allows us to focus on meticulous viticulture and winemaking practices, ensuring each bottle reflects the distinct character of our land. Our annual production hovers around 5,000 cases, a testament to our belief that quality trumps quantity.
Winery History and Ownership
Kramer Vineyards was founded in 1983 by Keith and Trudy Kramer, who were drawn to the Willamette Valley’s burgeoning wine scene. Over the decades, the winery has evolved under the guidance of the Kramer family, with their daughter Becky and son-in-law Kim leading the charge in the second generation. This seamless transition has preserved the winery’s core values while ushering in innovative approaches to viticulture and winemaking.
Winery Philosophy and Approach
At Kramer Vineyards, our guiding principle is to craft wines that authentically express the terroir of our estate. We firmly believe that great wine is born in the vineyard, and our meticulous attention to sustainable growing practices is the foundation for our exceptional wines. By embracing a small-lot philosophy, we can tailor our winemaking techniques to the unique characteristics of each block, clone, and vintage, ensuring that every bottle captures the true essence of our land.
Winemaking Practices
Small-Lot Winemaking
Our commitment to small-lot winemaking is the cornerstone of our approach. With just 22 acres of estate vines divided into 27 individual blocks, we are able to monitor and manage each lot with laser-like precision. This allows us to fine-tune our winemaking techniques, from fermentation to barrel aging, to optimize the potential of every grape. By treating each lot as a unique entity, we can craft wines that showcase the distinct nuances of our terroir.
Estate Vineyard Management
Tending to our estate vineyard is a labor of love that extends beyond the growing season. Throughout the year, our dedicated vineyard crew meticulously cares for the vines, employing sustainable practices to nurture the land. From canopy management to selective cluster thinning, every decision is made with the goal of producing the highest-quality fruit possible.
Sustainable Viticulture
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of our winemaking philosophy. Our estate vineyard is dry-farmed, relying solely on the region’s natural rainfall to nourish the vines. We also utilize cover cropping, composting, and integrated pest management to promote soil health and biodiversity. These practices not only preserve the integrity of our land but also allow the true personality of our terroir to shine through in the wines.
Grape Varietals and Terroir
Grape Varieties Grown
While the Willamette Valley is renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, we’ve embraced a diverse array of grape varieties on our estate. In addition to these noble varietals, you’ll find Müller-Thurgau, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Meunier, Carmine, and Marquette thriving in our vineyards. This tapestry of cultivars allows us to showcase the full range of our terroir’s potential.
Unique Terroir and Climate
The Yamhill-Carlton AVA, where our estate is located, is renowned for its unique microclimate and well-drained, ancient marine sedimentary soils. The region’s moderate temperatures, ample rainfall, and distinct soil pH create an ideal environment for growing exceptional cool-climate varietals. Our vineyard’s gentle slopes and diverse elevations further contribute to the complexity and character of our wines.
Vineyard Elevations and Exposures
Across our 22-acre estate, the vines are planted at varying elevations, ranging from 300 to 500 feet above sea level. This diverse topography allows us to capitalize on the unique microclimates of each block, tailoring our grape growing and winemaking practices accordingly. Additionally, the vineyard’s eastern and southern exposures ensure optimal sun exposure, enabling the grapes to reach their full potential.
Wine Portfolio and Tasting Notes
Signature Wine Offerings
Kramer Vineyards takes great pride in our diverse portfolio of wines, each one a reflection of our passion and commitment to small-lot winemaking. Among our signature offerings are our estate-grown Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, which showcase the exceptional quality of our terroir. We also delight in showcasing our lesser-known varietals, such as the aromatic and refreshing Müller-Thurgau and the bold, spice-forward Carmine.
Award-Winning Wines
Our dedication to quality has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, Kramer Vineyards has garnered numerous accolades and awards, including a noteworthy 94-point score for our Merlot from the London Wine Awards. These external recognitions serve as a testament to the exceptional caliber of our wines and the skill of our winemaking team.
Tasting Room Experiences
Visitors to Kramer Vineyards are invited to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring our diverse portfolio of wines in our beautifully appointed tasting room. Our knowledgeable staff is eager to guide you through tastings, highlighting the unique characteristics of each varietal and the stories behind our winemaking practices. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious wine enthusiast, the Kramer Vineyards experience promises to delight and inspire.
At Kramer Vineyards, we are proud to be part of the vibrant and ever-evolving Oregon wine community. By embracing the art of small-lot winemaking, sustainable viticulture, and a deep reverence for our exceptional terroir, we strive to craft wines that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. We invite you to visit our estate, explore our portfolio, and experience the passion that goes into every bottle of Kramer Vineyards wine. Visit the Wine Garden Inn to plan your next wine country adventure and discover the charm of our region.