In mid-January 2023 a deep freeze caused crop losses of approximately 58%, and in January 2024 temperatures plunged to –25 °C with similar or greater damage to Quails’ Gate’s West Kelowna vineyards. These back-to-back events prompted a phased replanting of more than half its four-hundred-acre estate to cold-tolerant rootstocks and clones. To bridge the gap while those new vines mature, Quails’ Gate sourced 2024 Pinot Gris from Oregon, bottled under its Plume label.
The Oregon fruit for the Plume Pinot Gris comes from vineyards within the Van Duzer Corridor AVA of the Willamette Valley. This corridor in the Oregon Coast Range channels cool Pacific breezes eastward, moderating summer highs and extending diurnal temperature swings by up to 15 °C. Soils here are primarily shallow and well-draining uplifted marine sedimentary loams and silts over siltstone bedrock that contribute to a fine mineral structure. These mesoclimate and soil characteristics mirror key aspects of Quails’ Gate’s Okanagan sites. Even though the fruit was sourced outside of British Columbia, the Plume Pinot Gris maintains the acidity, tension and mineral backbone central to the estate’s style.
Tasting Note
Cool ocean breezes from the Van Duzer Gap slow down ripening, preserving bright acidity and fresh aromas of lemon zest and green apple. On the palate, crisp pear and juicy honeydew melon come through, finishing fresh and lively with great balance.
Food Pairing
Pair with fresh seafood, light poultry, soft cheeses, or vibrant Asian-inspired salads