Vineyard Hopping in Hiyu Wine Farm: Natural Wines and Field Blends
Welcome to Hiyu Wine Farm, a lush and beautiful oasis in the Pacific Northwest where natural winemaking reigns supreme. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Hood, this family-run farm is home to some of the most unique and delicious wines in the region. But Hiyu Wine Farm is not your typical winery. Here, you can experience the art of vineyard hopping, where you can taste and explore different plots of land, each with their own distinct terroir and field blends. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the world of natural wines and field blends at Hiyu Wine Farm.
A History of Natural Wines and Field Blends
The practice of natural winemaking can be traced back centuries to traditional winemakers who used organic and biodynamic farming methods, minimal intervention, and native yeasts to create their wine. Today, this philosophy has been revived by a growing number of winemakers who believe in producing wines that reflect the true essence of the land and the grapes themselves.
Field blends, on the other hand, is a winemaking technique where different grape varietals are grown and harvested together, rather than separately. This method dates back to ancient times when winemakers would plant a mixture of grapes in the same vineyard, resulting in a unique and flavorful blend.
Discovering Hiyu Wine Farm
Hiyu Wine Farm was founded in 2010 by owners Nate Ready and China Tresemer, who were inspired by the natural wine movement and the ancient tradition of field blends. Located in the heart of the Columbia Gorge AVA, Hiyu Wine Farm is situated on a former pear orchard, with 30 acres of vineyards, gardens, and an animal farm.
At Hiyu, the focus is on sustainability and biodynamics, with the vineyards managed biodynamically and the animals used for weed control and fertilization. The result is a diverse ecosystem where the grapes thrive and express their unique terroir.
The Wine Experience at Hiyu Wine Farm
One of the most exciting things about visiting Hiyu Wine Farm is the opportunity to participate in a vineyard hopping experience. This allows you to taste the wines from different parcels of land and see firsthand how the grapes are grown and harvested.
Each vineyard at Hiyu has a different name and distinct personality. For example, Apple Blossom is home to Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling grapes, which are hand-harvested and blended together to create a unique and delicious field blend. On the other hand, Smirkness, a plot of land named after the farm’s resident donkey, is home to Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Syrah grapes, which are vinified together to create a smooth and complex red wine.
The Wines of Hiyu Wine Farm
At Hiyu Wine Farm, you will find an impressive selection of natural wines, each with its character and story to tell. These wines are made from a blend of grape varietals, hand-picked and co-fermented to create a distinctive flavor profile. Some of the most popular wines include Ramato Pinot Gris, a light and refreshing orange wine, and the Nebbiolo-based La Bohème, a bold and complex red wine.
What makes these wines even more special is their use of native yeasts, which are naturally present on the grapes and in the winery. This allows the wines to express their true terroir and gives them a unique and complex flavor profile that is both authentic and delicious.
The Perfect Destination for Wine Enthusiasts
Whether you are new to natural wines or a seasoned connoisseur, a visit to Hiyu Wine Farm is a must. Here, you can explore the beautiful vineyards, taste the delicious wines, and learn about the biodynamic farming practices used to create them. It’s the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts looking for a unique and authentic experience.
So next time you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, be sure to add Hiyu Wine Farm to your list. With its stunning scenery, delicious wines, and commitment to sustainability, it’s an experience that you won’t soon forget.
Conclusion
At Hiyu Wine Farm, you can go beyond just sipping on wine and truly immerse yourself in the world of natural wines and field blends. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on the unique characteristics of each plot of land, Hiyu is leading the way in the natural wine movement. So why not pay a visit and taste the magic for yourself?
