Our Story
Ribbon Ridge AVA
Resting on the Western edge of the Chehalem Mountains, the Ribbon Ridge AVA measures a mere 3.5 miles long by 1.75 miles wide. Not only is it the smallest appellation in Oregon, Ribbon Ridge is perhaps the most coveted vineyard land within the entire Willamette Valley.
Norris McKinley Vineyard
The sole source for our wines, the Norris McKinley Vineyard was planted in 2007 to approximately 10 acres of Pinot Noir (Coury, Wädenswil, Dijon 667, 115, Pommard) and about 2 acres of Riesling (Clone 9 Geisenheim and Clone 12 Neustadt). The established, unirrigated vines reach deeply into the well-drained ancient marine sedimentary soils. Our vineyard features six different types of the famed Willakenzie soil series that consists of fine-grained oceanic sand and siltstone. The west-southwest facing site slopes to Chehalem Creek, providing ample afternoon sunlight to ripen our fruit and crisp maritime evening winds to provide extended hang time.
Robert McKinley, Winemaker
Winemaker Robert McKinley brings a wealth of experience and a lifetime of dedication to fine wine. His passion for the diverse wine growing regions of the world informs his classic, yet contemporary approach to winemaking. A graduate of the California Polytechnic State University School of Wine and Viticulture, Robert has comprehensive understanding of the wine industry; from vine to glass and all facets in between. He has worked extensively in the vineyards, cellars, and tasting rooms of several iconic domestic wineries including Williams Selyem, Jonata/The Hilt, Trisaetum, and WillaKenzie, among others. His international experience includes cellar work at Craggy Range of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand and Torbreck of the Barossa Valley, Australia. Robert brings a perspective of low-intervention winemaking and a deep familiarity with the Norris McKinley Vineyard, his familial property since the vineyard's inception.
The Estate Vineyard & Winery
18285 NE Ribbon Ridge Road
Newberg, OR 97132
By Appointment Only