Ridgecrest was first planted in 1982 by Harry Peterson-Nedry, marking the first vineyard in what would be the famed Ribbon Ridge AVA. In 1988, Bill Stoller invested in Ridgecrest, setting a course for his entry into the Oregon wine industry. Today, Ridgecrest is divided across three distinct parcels. Chehalem retains a south-facing 29-acre parcel with 22-acres planted to vine.
Established in 2005, the Ribbon Ridge AVA is a small, 6.1 square mile ridge at the western end of the Chehalem Mountains AVA, rising 683 feet from the valley floor, giving it an island-like appearance. While the AVA is predominately Willakenzie soils, Ridgecrest features Wellsdale loam. With a moderate depth and solid water retention, Wellsdale is transition soil series exhibiting characteristics of both volcanic and sedimentary underlying structures.
Located in a cooler microclimate, Ridgecrest tends to be about a week later – from bud break through harvest – than our other estate vineyards. It is planted to seven different Pinot Noir clones. The wines from this site tend to be big and brambly, with black-fruit aromas and flavors like blackberry, black cherry, cassis, and hints of dusty chocolate, with excellent acidity and a finessed finish.