Gran Selezione

Highest quality category in Chianti Classico. Wine must be made from estate grown grapes and aged at least 30 months before it is sold.

What are Helen, Louise, Jessie, Eileen, Marjorie, Nancy, and Elizabeth?

A. The names of the first female winemakers in the United States

B. The names of vineyards in Oregon

C. The names of the first women wine professionals in Britain to achieve the WSET diploma

D. The names of the first female Master Sommeliers in the United States

Many of the top vineyards of the Willamette Valley in Oregon are named after women who have been inspirations in the industry. Helen, Louise, Jessie and Eileen and Marjorie are all vineyards that belong to Cristom. Nancy’s vineyard honors Nancy Ponzi of Ponzi, and Elizabeth’s is named after David Adelsheim’s daughter.

“I liken making pinot noir to waking up a woman at three in the morning. You never quite know what you’re going to get.”

—Luke Smith
Owner and winemaker, Howling Bluff Winery, British Columbia

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