Cowhorn GSM, Applegate Valley 2023 (750 ml)

50% Grenache, 44% Syrah, & 6% Mourvèdre

The 2023 GSM is an elegant and lithe expression of these varieties, with aromas of wild blueberry and red huckleberry, and fresh cranberry, with rose petals, pink peppercorn and bay leaf. The mouthfeel is graceful and long, with subtle layers of energized tannins.

Following a long, cold winter, the 2023 growing season began particularly slowly, resulting in a bud break nearly three weeks later than average. However, a decadently warm May accelerated canopy growth and allowed flowering to occur on time. This rare combination of cool early-season conditions followed by warmth, coupled with a relatively moderate summer and early fall, yielded wines with nuanced aromas, elegant textures, lower alcohol levels, and lovely acidity.

Our estate GSM is a vintage snapshot of the red varieties planted across our vineyard. Each cultivar is fermented and aged separately in mostly neutral French oak, using natural methods with only minimal sulfur additions. The Grenache sets the wine’s overall tone with bright, playful red fruit and lifted citrus notes. Syrah adds darkly concentrated aromas and firm structure, while Mourvèdre introduces brooding savory elements and textural depth.

Cowhorn Vineyard - Biodynamic Wines 
In southern Oregon in the Applegate AVA near the city of Jacksonville, this a grape growing region dating back to 1870. Committed to Organic and Biodynamic principles since its inception in 2002. Demeter certified since 2008.

The 117-acre estate is a testament to diversity, featuring a terroir and climate ideally suited for growing Rhône varietals. 25-acres under vine, predominantly Syrah, and then Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne.

What sets Cowhorn apart is our holistic approach to winemaking. We adhere to biodynamic principles, employing organic and biodynamic farming practices in the vineyard, and nurturing a diverse ecosystem that promotes the health of the land and the vines. 

Winemaker:  Vince Vidrine
An ambitious winemaker with extensive experience, Vidrine is focused on producing wine at the highest level of quality. Until recently, he was the Associate Winemaker at critically acclaimed Domaine Serene Winery in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. In addition to his role as a critical leader for Domaine Serene in Oregon, he has provided significant support to Château de la Crée, their Burgundy estate in the Côte d’Or of France, which produces wines from celebrated vineyards in Chassagne-Montrachet, Volnay and Puligny-Montrachet, Pommard and Santenay.

Previously, Vidrine was the Assistant Winemaker for Brittan Vineyards in McMinnville, Oregon which consistently produces wines that score over 90 points by important wine critics for both Brittan Vineyards and Winderlea Wines. Robert Brittan, who Vince considers one of his winemaking mentors, designed the new Irvine & Roberts state-of-the-art winery, currently under construction on the estate. Brittan will remain involved in the project on a consulting basis.

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