Exploring the Terroir of the Rogue Valley: What Makes Our Wines Unique

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Southern Oregon lies the Rogue Valley, a hidden gem renowned for its diverse terroir and exceptional wines. At Domaine St. Laurent, we pride ourselves on crafting wines that reflect the distinctive character of this remarkable region. Join us on a journey as we explore the terroir of the Rogue Valley and discover what sets our wines apart.

A Tapestry of Terroir

The Rogue Valley is a land of contrasts, where the forces of nature converge to create a rich tapestry of terroir. From the volcanic soils of the Siskiyou Mountains to the alluvial plains of the Rogue River, this diverse landscape provides a multitude of microclimates and soil types, each imparting its own unique characteristics to the wines grown here.

Massive Diurnal Shifts

About 75 miles from the Oregon coast and 50 miles from Crater Lake, Oregon’s only national park, the Rogue Valley is defined by the wild and scenic Rogue River and its tributaries: the Applegate, Bear Creek, and Illinois Rivers, and the confluence of the Cascade, Siskiyou, and Coastal mountain ranges. These moderating influences result in drastic diurnal shifts, with nighttime lows dropping up to 70°F, preserving the grape’s acid balance and slowing the ripening season for greater flavor development. What results in world-class wines of distinct quality, depth and balance.

Elevation and Aspect

The Rogue Valley is a region of dramatic elevation changes, with vineyards situated at varying altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,200 feet above sea level. This range in elevation, coupled with the valley's east-west orientation, creates a mosaic of microclimates that influence the ripening process of our grapes, imparting a unique sense of place to each wine we produce.

Minerality and Expression

At Domaine St. Laurent, we believe that great wine begins in the vineyard. Our commitment to sustainable farming practices and meticulous vineyard management allows us to harness the full potential of our terroir, producing wines that showcase the purity of the fruit and the mineral-rich soils of the Rogue Valley.

Tasting Notes: A Journey Through the Rogue Valley

From our flagship Pinot Noir to our elegant Rosé de Pinot Noir, each wine in our portfolio offers a glimpse into the terroir of the Rogue Valley. Whether it's the ripe red fruit and earthy undertones of our Pinot Noir or the crisp acidity and delicate floral notes of our Rosé, our wines embody the essence of this unique region, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey unlike any other.

Experience the Rogue Valley Difference

Join us at Domaine St. Laurent as we celebrate the terroir of the Rogue Valley and the wines that define it. From the rocky soils to the cool climate influences, every bottle tells a story of this remarkable region—a story we invite you to share with us, one sip at a time.

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Understanding Pinot Noir: A Guide to Flavor Profiles

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2022 Harvest