Getting to know Northwest wines - Granville Steps Forward

Besides two jobs, Holstein also spends time with others in the wine industry, touting the benefits of higher density vineyards and the need to provide irrigation throughout the year. He noted that some grape growers support a "hands-off" attitude about vineyards, allowing Mother Nature to provide the necessary ingredients for a successful crop.

His partner Soles agrees.

"Healthy vines produce the most fruit flavor," Soles said. "If you have limiting factors, such as a lack of water, we believe you should provide whatever is needed, whether it be water, compost, micro-nutrients or whatever."

Although Granville wines are produced with lower density, more mature vines, Holstein said he has planted more vines using newer, more modern ways to take advantage of new clones and -plant-density techniques. The differences will eventually show up in the bottle.

"We produce a nice wine now," Holstein said. "With the changes we're making in the vineyard, the wine will have more substance and complexity. It will only get better. That's the mission."

The 1999 Granville Pinot Noir is medium bodied with a mix of cherries and plums and light pepper. The lack of so much oak is deceiving and at first, the tasting panel thought the wine was a little lightweight. After about 30 minutes, when the wine expanded out of the bottle, the panel agreed that the wine hung in there, with a smooth finish and very pleasant, lingering feel in the mouth.

The Holsteins can be reached by email at info@granvillewine.com or by phone at (503) 554-1831.

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