Oregon Wine Experience 2023
Crissie and I, as well as the entire RoxyAnn team, were so excited to take part in another amazing statewide event: the Oregon Wine Experience 2023. We couldn’t be happier about the performance of our 2019 Claret, which was recognized as the Best in Class at the 2023 Oregon Wine Experience as well as recently receiving a rating of 90 points from Wine Enthusiast! Our Claret has been the flag ship wine of RoxyAnn for over 20 years and our loyal customers know the quality we demand out of the fruit that goes into this wine. We are happy to see that wine influencers outside of our bubble are recognizing how delicious and special this wine is as well. Thank you for another incredible year, OWE! We already can’t wait for next year!
~ Chad Day, Owner & General Manager of RoxyAnn Winery
Exploring the Rich History of the Oregon Wine Experience: A Toast to RoxyAnn Winery’s Best Of Class Award
The Oregon Wine Experience event is a recognition of the progressive journey through time, geography, and the artistry of winemaking in the state of Oregon. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon boasts a wine heritage that has been decades in the making. From its humble beginnings to its current global recognition, the Oregon wine industry has come a long way, capturing the essence of the region’s fertile lands and pioneering spirit. One shining example of this journey is RoxyAnn Winery, a true gem that proudly carries the torch of Oregon’s viticultural excellence.
Early Beginnings and Pioneering Spirit
The history of the Oregon wine dates back to the mid-19th century when immigrants recognized the potential of the fertile soil and temperate climate for cultivating grapes. It was not until the 1960s, however, that the modern era of Oregon winemaking began to take shape. Visionaries like David Lett of Eyrie Vineyards and Charles Coury were among the first to plant Pinot Noir and other varietals in the Willamette Valley, defying the skeptics who believed fine wine couldn’t be produced in the region.
These early pioneers laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. By the 1970s, Oregon’s reputation for producing high-quality Pinot Noir had gained traction, attracting attention from wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. As the industry grew, the territories for growing delicious Oregon Wines expanded to include various microclimates and terroirs, each contributing its own distinct character to the wines produced.
A Blossoming Industry and RoxyAnn Winery’s Journey
Fast forward to the present day, and the Oregon wine industry has expanded far beyond the boundaries of the Willamette Valley. One region that has made its mark is the Rogue Valley, situated in Southern Oregon. This region’s diverse climate and unique terroir provide an ideal setting for producing a wide range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.
RoxyAnn Winery stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication that define Oregon wine. Founded in 2001, RoxyAnn Winery found its home on the historic Hillcrest Orchard, which has been a part of the Southern Oregon landscape for over a century. The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and exceptional winemaking has garnered them a reputation for producing wines that truly reflect the essence of the Rogue Valley.
The Oregon Wine Experience
The Oregon Wine Experience stands as a testament to the extraordinary evolution of Oregon’s wine industry. This annual event was first launched in 2014 with the aim of celebrating the state’s exceptional wines while also supporting a noble cause.
Over the years, The Oregon Wine Experience has grown from a local gathering of wine enthusiasts to a prestigious week-long celebration that draws participants and wineries from across the nation. This event not only showcases the diversity of Oregon’s wine regions and their unique terroirs but also serves as a platform for charitable giving.
The event’s wine competitions, seminars, and grand tastings bring together winemakers, sommeliers, and passionate wine lovers, fostering a vibrant exchange of knowledge and appreciation. As The Oregon Wine Experience continues to flourish, it encapsulates the heart and soul of Oregon’s wine heritage, showcasing the dedication and artistry of its winemakers while contributing to the betterment of the community.
We have been proud to be a part of The Oregon Wine Experience for many years, but celebrated a historic moment at the 2023 Oregon Wine Experience award ceremony.
A Moment of Pride: RoxyAnn Winery’s Oregon Wine Experience ‘Best Of Class’ Award
In the world of winemaking, recognition is both an affirmation and an inspiration. In the 2023 Oregon Wine Experience, RoxyAnn Winery was proud to achieve a remarkable feat by winning the coveted Best Of Class Award for their 2019 Claret. This accolade is a testament to our dedication to crafting exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region and the spirit of its people.
The 2019 Claret, a Bordeaux-style blend, exemplifies RoxyAnn Winery’s commitment to quality and innovation. With its rich aromas, complex flavors, and elegant structure, the Claret is a true reflection of the Rogue Valley’s unique terroir. Winning the Best Of Class Award not only signifies the work we have put into mastery in winemaking but also serves as a symbol of our continuing role in the ongoing narrative of our wine region, including the Oregon Wine Experience.
We were also thrilled to receive a silver medal for our 2022 Sauvignon Blanc wine, a crisp and refreshing vintage that showcases aromas and flavors of guava, melon, and ripe grapefruit, along with subtle background notes of fresh-cut grass — with an outstanding balance and an exceptionally long, lingering finish.
Continuing the Legacy and Embracing the Future
The history of the Oregon wine experience is one of determination, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. Today, Oregon’s wine industry is a tapestry woven with stories of countless individuals who have contributed to its growth and success. RoxyAnn Winery’s Best Of Class Award is a shining example of how dedication to craft and a passion for excellence can shape the trajectory of an entire region’s wine journey.
As we raise our glasses to celebrate RoxyAnn Winery’s achievement, let us also toast to the continued evolution of Oregon wines and the growing industry in our beautiful state. With each sip of wine, we are reminded of the pioneers who laid the foundation, the winemakers who brought their vision to life, and the communities that have embraced this culture of fine wine. The Oregon Wine Experience event is not just a journey through history; it is a celebration of the present and a promise for an even more vibrant future.
Shop for our Oregon Wine Experience Award-Winners & More!
2019 Claret
2022 Sauvignon Blanc
More Award-Winning Wines
October 12, 2023
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