2007 Top Stories

In their January issue, Oregon Wine Press staff put together a feature listing what they consider to be the top 10 stories of 2007 in the Oregon wine industry. This was an interesting list to peruse, and I was excited to note that we have covered a number of the issues on The Oregon Wine Blog over the previous 6 months. Here are the top 10 (from OWP):

1. Yes on 49: Oregonians support Measure 49, maintaining protectios on forests, famrland, and vineyards.


2. Green scene: With global warming in the news, Oregon's wine industry is doing its part on being green. Read about a leading green winery in The Oregon Wine Blog.


3. Labor limbo: Illegal worker issue will impact wine industry.


4. Cuvee coup: The lastest updates on regulations offer Oregon's wine industry flexibility to create the highest quality in an increasingly competitive market. Read about this in The Oregon Wine Blog.


5. Harvest '07: Weather presented some real challenges, but diligent farming and skillful winemaking will result in many hight quality, lower alcohol wines. Read about this in The Oregon Wine Blog.


6. Fruit sources refashioned: Three of the most well-respected vineyards cmae under new ownership or long-term contract.


7. Moratorium on AVA approvals: Temporary suspension of AVA approvals leaves Oregon's growing industry in appellation limbo. Read about this in The Oregon Wine Blog.


8. Oregon Riedel: Oregon Pinot now has its own wineglass from one of the best crystal designers in the world.


9. The Allison: Details of Oregon wine region's first luxury inn, spa revealed at groundbreaking ceremony.


10. Salud! '07: The latest pinot relases shine and record money is raised at the industry's most beloved auction benefitting Oregon's vineyard workers.

Do you agree with this list? Are there other stories that should be included? How did these issues impact your Oregon wine experience in 2007?

In other industry news, The Oregonian reported on Thursday that Wine Business Monthly recently named Willamette Valley Vineyards as the hottest small brand of 2007. WVV is Oregon's only publicly held winery (Nasdaq: WVVI) and has been showing record growth while maintaining high quality product.