Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Willow Number 777, a unique and captivating vineyard, has been securing its place among Oregon's wine elite since its inception. Named after the iconic willow tree that stands sentinel at its entrance, this winery is not just a producer of fine wines; it's a testament to the region's rich viticultural heritage and its commitment to sustainability.
Willow Number 777 was founded by winemaker Sarah Lindeman and her husband, vineyard manager Tom Sutton, who saw the potential in the valley's diverse terroir. Their shared passion for wines of elegance and finesse, coupled with a deep respect for the land, has guided their work from the outset, making Willow Number 777 a beacon of quality and innovation.
Wine Production Philosophy
At Willow Number 777, every bottle is a reflection of the vineyard's unique terroir and the winemaker's art. Sarah's minimal intervention approach allows the grapes to shine, resulting in wines that are not only complex and compelling but also authentic expressions of the Willamette Valley.
From the meticulous farming to the gentle handling of grapes in the winery, every decision is made with a single goal in mind: to create wines that tell the story of this place and this particular vintage.
Vineyard Practices
Willow Number 777 practices sustainable viticulture, focusing on low-impact farming methods that nourish the soil and protect the local ecosystem. The vineyard is certified Salmon-Safe, ensuring the protection of local waterways, and is also Certified Sustainable through LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology).
Cover crops are used to suppress weeds and prevent erosion, while the use of chemical fertilizers is minimized. The result is a vibrant, healthy vineyard that produces exceptional grapes year after year.
Winemaking Techniques
Sarah's winemaking philosophy is rooted in the old world, with a focus on gentle handling and natural processes. Grapes are handpicked and sorted at the vineyard before being transported to the winery, where they are transferred to small open-top fermenters. The use of indigenous yeasts and minimal sulfur addition allows the wines to develop naturally, with each vintage showcasing the unique characteristics of the harvest.
The wines are aged in French oak barrels, a mix of new and old, to provide structure and complexity without overpowering the fruit. The final blends are determined by carefully tasting each barrel, ensuring that every wine is a harmonious expression of its components.
Wine Portfolio
Willow Number 777's portfolio reflects the diversity of the Willamette Valley, with a focus on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and a selection of unique varietals. Each wine is a celebration of the vineyard's unique terroir and the winemaker's art.
The winery's signature is its Pinot Noir, a versatile grape that thrives in the valley's cool climate. From the bright, fruity 'Seven Virtues' Cuvée to the elegant and complex single vineyard designs, these wines showcase the range and depth of Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley.
Pinot Noir: A Winemaker's playground
Willow Number 777's Pinot Noirs are known for their balance and finesse, with red fruit flavors and subtle earthy notes. Each wine is unique, reflecting the distinct microclimates and soil types found within the vineyard. The 'Marianne' Pinot Noir, for instance, is a rich, powerful wine from the warmer, elevated blocks, while the 'Linda Vista' offers a lighter, more delicate expression from the cooler, lower elevation sites.
In addition to Pinot Noir, Willow Number 777 produces a range of white wines, including the 'Willow' Chardonnay, a model of restraint and minerality, and the 'Eden's Blend' white wine, a unique field blend that refracts the winemaker's creativity and curiosity.
The final wine in their portfolio, 'Cooper's Field' Tempranillo, pays homage to the winemaker's Spanish heritage and the embracing of new varietals that the Willamette Valley's cool climate can sustain. This robust red wine offers a unique perspective on what can be grown and produced in this dynamic region.
From its inception, Willow Number 777 has been more than just a winery; it's been a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to crafting exceptional wines, preserving the environment, and fostering a sense of belonging. A visit to Willow Number 777 is not just a tasting experience; it's an invitation to become a part of their story, a story that continues to unfold with every glass poured and every bottle shared.