Vineyard: Daphne

OwnerDiana Lett
AppellationDundee Hills
StoryOne of five vineyards at The Eyrie Vineyards estate. Named after friends. A special single vineyard bottling from this vineyard was produced in 2001, 2008, 2009 and 2012 vintages. Originally named Stonehedge. David Lett first produced a Daphne Vineyard Pinot Noir in 2001, but didn't like it, and didn't release it until years later when it was sold to wine club members. Now in winery's library.
Dates Planted1979-1980
Acres13 (1.5 of Pinot Noir)
AspectOne of the highest vineyards in the Dundee Hills at 820'-860', about 400' above the original plantings. A marginal site.
VarietiesPinot Gris, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir
ClonesPommard, Wädenswil
ManagersJason Lett

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2013 The Eyrie Vineyards Daphne Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $80. Named for a very dear and longtime friend of Eyrie. 1.5 acres planted to Pommard clone in 1974. Elevation is 820’ to 860’ with the most wind exposure. Hilltop soil is very shallow, averaging less than 10 inches on top of large boulders at 820’. Last of the single vineyards to ripen with tiny clusters. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring aroma of black cherries. Intense flavors of dark red and black cherries and purple berries backed by modest tannins and framed by juicy acidity. I was quite taken by this beauty. Score: 93-94. Reviewed September 7, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 The Eyrie Vineyards Daphne Vineyard Pinot Noir

Named after friends. 1.5 acres of Pinot Noir at 820’-860’, one of the highest vineyards in the Dundee Hills. Planted in 1974. Produced in 2001, 2008 and 2009 and 2012 vintages. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Complex nose featuring aromas of black cherry, Herbs de Provence, spice and iron. Intensely fruity featuring a core of sweet blackberry fruit accented by earth and minerals, and a bold finish. Reviewed February 28, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 The Eyrie Vineyards Daphne Vineyard Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $75. Originally named Stonehedge, the Daphne Vineyard is located above the original plantings about 400 feet higher in elevation and is a marginal site. Planted in 1979 and 1980, it has 13 acres of Pinot Gris, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir (1.5 acres of Wädenswil and Pommard). David Lett first made a Daphne Vineyard Pinot Noir in 2001 but didn’t particularly like it, and didn’t release it until years later when it was sold to wine club members. Jason found an old stash in the winery’s warehouse. It was produced in 2008 and 2009, but not in 2010 or 2011 (acidity too high). · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A very generous wine with vivid aromas of red berries and rose garden. More body and intensity than typical for Eyrie Pinot Noirs, featuring copious dark red berry and cherry fruit with a subtle note of oak, finishing dry with impressive length and show of black raspberry flavor. A special wine made in the Eyrie style but amplified, changing with every sip and showing impeccable balance. Flat-out great. Reviewed September 12, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »