About the Lower Long Tom AVA
The Lower Long Tom is composed of passionate vignerons immersed in their land and work, often on multi-generational farms. These closely-knit families are shaped by an intimate and deep connection to the coastal foothills — resulting in wines of striking personality and diversity. While verdant rolling hillsides, ancient Bellpine soils, and brilliant summer skies all play their part in the makeup of this region, it is the people working in the vineyards and cellars each day that fulfill the expression of the Lower Long Tom terroir.
This is a place where a connection to the land goes beyond wine, but permeates the daily lives of the people who live and work here.
Simple. Outstanding. Passionate.
Located between Eugene and Corvallis and tucked into the coastal foothills, the Lower Long Tom AVA derives its name from its position within the west side of the Long Tom watershed.
Vineyards are located on stream-cut ridge lines running east to west, with the predominant soil type being Bellpine. These soils are clay-loams formed from up-lifted ancient marine sediments, primarily sandstone and are typically shallow, with grapevine roots having to penetrate the sandstone below to find water and nutrients.
To the west, the area is flanked by the significantly higher elevations of the Coast Range which serve to form a weather shield. The rain shadow effect of the higher peaks to the west reduces precipitation; this combined with the prevailing winds, creates a microclimate with reduced disease pressure during the growing season and consistent fruit maturity, even in more difficult vintages.
The weather pattern, combined with Bellpine soils, tends to grow vines with a more open canopy. The open vine structure results in more light and air exposure to clusters with smaller berries, increasing fruit intensity and skin structure.
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This is a place where a connection to the land goes beyond wine, but permeates the daily lives of the people who live and work here.
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- Established: 2021
- Total Area: 25,000 acres (10,117 ha)
- Planted Area: 575 acres (232 ha)
- Predominant Varieties: Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon blanc
- Predominant Soils: Bellpine and Bellpine-Jory
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