Soul-nurturing Wines
Tuesday | 05 January 2010
Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden is all about respect for the land and sustainability.
From the use of multiple crops to a rejection of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers owners Bill and Barbara Steele are earth-friendly to the core. Everything on the farm is recycled; there is no waste. This was the first winery in southern Oregon to achieve both biodynamic and organic certifications, which in the world of winegrowing means you’ve gone totally green.It wasn’t easy for the Steeles to get to this point. When they acquired the property in 2002, its 117 acres were in disarray, with weeds and blackberry bushes everywhere. All of it required clearing and the installation of three miles of fencing to keep out the deer, bears, cougars, and coyotes. The surrounding deer fence protects the grapes and keeps out animals that tend to menace dogs. It was hard work, but never for a minute have Bill and Barbara regretted leaving their corporate jobs: He was a Wall Street analyst, and she was a chief financial officer. From pinstripes to overalls, they made the transition.
The couple grows five grape varietals originating in France’s Rhône region: syrah, grenache, viognier, roussanne, and marsanne. Bill noted that they would love to visit the Rhône region of France at some point. However, the daily demands of their farm require their attention now. In addition to 11 acres of grapes, they have planted asparagus, hazelnut and cherry trees, and black truffles, in keeping with their biodynamic philosophy of diversity. The “Garden” part of their establishment’s name is well-considered. One plant just can’t create a desired ecosystem; biodynamics takes a holistic approach to growing grapes and making wine.
For winemaking, Bill assumes the role as “assistant to the grape.” To that end, the Steeles built an advanced wine production facility to control each step of the process and to ensure that their wines are organic. As they note on their website, “Habitat preservation, water conservation, and the well-being of the Earth factor in to each decision we make. We have stewardship of this landscape and consider it our responsibility and privilege to foster its health and strength.”
They take their cues from the wisdom of nature, a sageness evident in the soul-nurturing wines they produce.
