Savoring Nature's Symphony at Youngberg Hill: A Conversation with Wayne Bailey

Welcome back, wine enthusiasts! This week, we're taking a delightful stroll down memory lane to May 22nd, 2021, when I had the privilege of visiting Youngberg Hill. As I meandered up the enchanting driveway, Wayne Bailey's daughter zipped by on a lawnmower, her infectious smile setting the tone for the day. Smiles truly are contagious, aren't they?Youngberg Hill's charm hit me like a spellbinding symphony – a massive tasting room perched on a hill, vines stretching as far as the eye could see, and a view that could steal your breath. Wayne Bailey, the owner, welcomed me, and we settled on the deck with a glass of their 2016 Sparkling Blanc de Noirs – an apt choice for our chat.The history here is rich: a Swedish farm family owned this land in the 1800s, and in 1987, Norman Barnett took over. The late 80s saw Ken Wright planting vineyards, igniting a transformation. Wayne Bailey entered the scene in 2003, nurturing the land organically, progressing to biodynamic practices, and embracing a no-till approach.Our conversation took us to the Jordan block – a haven of own-rooted vines, a rarity in Oregon. Wayne's eyes sparkled as he spoke of the soil, igniting a fascinating dialogue about viticulture. As we sipped wines, Wayne shared his journey – the struggles, the experiments, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.Tasting the wines, I was captivated. The 2017 Bailey Family Chardonnay Reserve, the 2017 Natasha Pinot Noir, and the 2017 Jordan Block (now J Block Y) all danced on my palate, each telling a unique story of the land. But it was the 2012 and 2013 vintages that stole the show – Wayne's dedication to craftsmanship and the land were palpable.We delved into Wayne's family, his daughters, and their shared love for the farm. Nutmeg and Ginger, the Scottish cows on-site, added an extra layer of charm to this idyllic setting. Oh, and did I mention the upcoming vineyard tour? Exploring the vineyard with your phone as your guide – a modern twist on a timeless experience.So, pour yourself a glass of Youngberg Hill wine, join me in reliving this enchanting journey, and discover the symphony of flavors that only nature and Wayne's passion can compose. Don't forget to mention "AIJ sent you" when you visit. Cheers to a symphony of wine and nature's wonders! 🍷🌿 #YoungbergHill #WinePassion #NatureSymphony