Columbia Blossom

We’re excited to finally share our big bold red wine with the world.  Custom crushed by Springhouse Winery in downtown Hood River with winemaker Carey Kienitz.   We have just one acre of wine grapes planted in ’96 that makes just 100 cases or approx 1000 bottles each year so far.

Marechal Foch (pronounced “mar-esh-shall-fosh”), is an inter-specific hybrid red wine grape variety -named after the French marshal Ferdinand Foch [1851-1929], who has been  described as “the most original and subtle mind in the French army” in the early 20th century. The varietal has “recently been successfully marketed as more expensive niche cult wines with a dedicated following” and “pairs well with chocolate!”

We chose the Foch because it’s a hearty variety that ripens early in the warm weather of Mosier, and is resistant to diseases, which make it easier to grow organically.

At harvest, we leave the grapes on the vine until ripe which gives us high sugar levels (brix),  but the Foch is known for it’s good acids to balance out the sweet.  We’ve been experimenting with different yeasts and styles for 10 years and think this is a  great  combination

It is described as “off-dry with rich forward fruit, hints of mocha and balanced acids” (New Seasons) and “so amazing” (People’s Coop)

By the way, it’s vegan.

And the front bee label is a reusable sticker.