A Taste of Spain in Oregon Abacela’s Grenache Reserve
A Taste of Spain in Oregon: Spotlight on Abacela’s Grenache Reserve
Nestled in the sun-drenched hills of Southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley, Abacela Winery feels like a portal to the sun-baked vineyards of Spain. Established in 1995 by Earl and Hilda Jones—former immunologists who traded lab coats for grapevines—this pioneering estate has become an icon of innovation, proving that Mediterranean varietals can thrive far from their homeland. Just minutes off Interstate 5 at Exit 119 near Roseburg, Abacela’s tasting room overlooks estate vineyards that stretch toward the horizon, evoking the rustic elegance of Rioja or Ribera del Duero. On a recent visit, I was transported by the winery’s warm terracotta hues, arched doorways, and sunlit patios—hallmarks of Spanish architecture that make you forget you’re in the Pacific Northwest. It’s no wonder the name “Abacela” derives from the Latin-Spanish verb abacelar, meaning “to plant a grapevine.” Here, that simple act has blossomed into something extraordinary, especially with their standout Grenache Reserve.
A Spanish Soul in the Umpqua Valley
Abacela’s story is one of bold vision. The Jones family scoured the globe for a climate mirroring Spain’s diurnal swings—cool nights and warm days—before landing in the Umpqua Valley, a “special pocket of the world” with its diverse microclimates and well-drained soils. They were one of the first in the Pacific Northwest to plant Tempranillo commercially, but their portfolio has since expanded to Rhône and Spanish-inspired gems like Albariño, Syrah, and, of course, Grenache. The winery’s Spanish flair isn’t just in the grapes; it’s in the very air. The tasting room, with its stucco walls, wrought-iron accents, and sweeping vineyard views, feels like a hacienda plucked from Andalusia. Pair that with estate-grown fruit just steps away, and you’ve got a sensory escape that rivals any Iberian idyll.
Why Grenache Shines Here (and Differs from Willamette’s Pinots)
If you’re familiar with Oregon’s Willamette Valley, where delicate, thin-skinned Pinot Noir grapes flourish in cooler, misty climes to produce elegant, earthy reds, Abacela offers a thrilling contrast. Enter Grenache: a thick-skinned powerhouse that thrives in warm, dry Mediterranean-like conditions—just like the Umpqua’s sun-soaked slopes. While Pinot whispers subtlety with its bright acidity and red fruit finesse, Grenache roars with bold, sun-ripened flavors and a warm, velvety texture that coats the palate like a cozy embrace. It’s less about restraint and more about exuberance—think ripe berries bursting with life, softened by spice and earth. Abacela’s Umpqua terroir, with its gravelly soils and ample sunshine, amplifies this, yielding Grenache that’s both powerful and poised.
The Star: 2021 Grenache Reserve
Abacela’s 2021 Grenache Reserve is the crown jewel of this philosophy—a limited-production release from a single block, marking their first-ever Reserve bottling of the varietal. This wine is a revelation, earning accolades for its depth and character. On the nose, it unfurls with vibrant aromas of blackberries, vanilla, and dried herbs. The palate delivers a soft, even elegance with great depth of fruit—layers of bold black cherry and plum interwoven with subtle spice and a whisper of oak. Its warm, velvety mouthfeel lingers beautifully, making it ideal for pairing with grilled lamb, tapas, or even a charcuterie board under Oregon's Dark Skies. At 14.5% ABV, it’s got that Grenache swagger: approachable yet complex, perfect for sipping solo or sharing with friends. If you’re weary of Pinot’s finesse, this Reserve will awaken your taste buds to the joy of unapologetic boldness.
Beyond the Glass: Tastings, Clubs, and Spanish-Inspired Bites
A visit to Abacela isn’t complete without lingering in their tasting room, where complimentary pours for wine club members come with VIP treatment (book ahead!). The experience leans intimate and educational, with staff sharing stories of the Jones’ global quest and the magic of Umpqua’s “free-draining” soils. Don’t miss the occasional tapas pairings—think Iberian-style small plates that echo the winery’s heritage and elevate wines like the Grenache Reserve.
Plan Your Escape
Abacela is open daily for tastings (reservations recommended), making it an easy detour on a Southern Oregon wine trail. Swing by for a flight, snag a bottle of the Grenache Reserve, or join their mailing list for updates on releases and events. Whether you’re a Tempranillo traditionalist or a Grenache newbie, this winery delivers on its promise of innovation with soul.
In a state dominated by cool-climate kings, Abacela reminds us that Oregon’s diversity is its superpower. The 2021 Grenache Reserve isn’t just a wine—it’s a bold statement, wrapped in the warm embrace of a Spanish afternoon.
Head to www.abacela.com to explore their lineup or book your tasting. ¡Salud to unexpected discoveries!