Division Ouest Columbia Valley Red 2023

Ouest [pronounced wɛst], noun, (point cardinal, direction, situation) embodies the spirit of the Pacific Northwest as a wine-growing region. An original Pacific Northwest wine responsibly grown and made delicious by Earth, hand and heart.

Dark reddish-purple color, appealing aromas that testify to its mixed varietal sources: ripe cherries, mixed red berries, freshly ground black pepper and subtle smoke and leather. Fresh-fruit acidity makes it food-friendly, and a hint of tannic astringency adds structure that becomes more evident in the long finish. There’s a hint of warmth, but 13.5% alcohol is well within reasonable limits. 

This inaugural vintage hails from the Columbia Valley, which lies near the volcanic Cascade Mountains and features rolling hills and arid landscapes. The vineyards here, which thrive in a dry and warm climate, are home to some of the most interesting and under-the-radar plantings of Italian grape varieties, such as the featured Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, and also the French variety Syrah - all three of which have been brought together in this first bottling of Division's new, sun-kissed bold red (50% Sangiovese, 25% Nebbiolo, 25% Syrah).

Division Winemaking Co. is a winery established in 2011 by co-owners Kate Norris and Thomas Monroe and based in the heart of southeast Portland. Their wines come from responsibly farmed, terroir expressive vineyards in Oregon and Washington, and eschew traditional wine barriers. They produce approachable and balanced wines through minimal intervention, employing an ethos rooted in French winemaking.