A Short Reflection on 2024’s The Wild Bunch; Portland, Oregon’s Natural Wine Fair
Post-Impressionistic Event Thoughts
Post Familiar / New Realms / Brent Brawn and Jordan Sowers: At the Vanguard, they embody the essence of innovation and passion, their presence a beacon amidst the bustling atmosphere. Pole position #1 this year with a front table facing the entrance. Brent's nomination for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program speaks volumes about their dedication to their craft. Important shout out to restaurateur Monique Siu for the incarnation of OK Omens and the Vanguard of them all, Castagna!
Troon Vineyards: Their wines carry the weight of their commitment to biodynamic and organic farming practices, each sip a testament to their drive and passion for sustainability. The word that comes to mind is clarity. Thanks for taking the time to chat with me Nate Winters.
Lagniappe Wines & Fizzy Lizzy - Swamp Water Pet-Nat: It was nice to reconnect! It was kismet we both posted about that sparkling deliciousness you’ve created in snow covered regions. Looking forward to what’s next!
New-to-me discoveries: The mention of various labels like Limited Addition, Pet Project, Carola Wine + Cider, Perkins Harter, Sound + Vision (great Bowie song!) Statera / EST, hints at a dynamic landscape of emerging talents, each offering a unique expression waiting to be explored.
Nate Ready & Hiyu Wine Farm: His wines are described as a revelation, a mystical blend of terroir and craftsmanship that transcends the ordinary. The mention of his wines - all in the industry look up to Nate - evokes a sense of reverence and anticipation, inviting the reader to delve into his world of enological magik. The best way I can describe Hiyu Wine Farm is approximately 1.618 or the Golden Ratio. Love him dearly.
Vincent Wines: Reminiscent of Burgundy yet deeply rooted in the terroir of Oregon, Vincent, his namesake, embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, transporting the imbiber to distant vineyard landscapes with each sip. After drinking wine all day, I still had room on my palette to drink more from Vincent. Just sayin’
Cutter Cascadia: Michael's wines are not only serious in their craftsmanship but also playful in their nomenclature, offering a delightful juxtaposition that mirrors the complexity of the wine itself. It was nice to meet Michael in person. A humble and serious winemaker.
Delicious Wines: Monica's presence added a familiarity to the gathering, a comforting reminder of the connections forged through shared appreciation of natural wine and company. Happy to have reconnected and excited about our collaboration in the future!
Dear Loop de Loop, To view both the Oregon & Washington side simultaneously from your high-altitude terrace while still breathing is simply breathtaking; ironic. Notes scribbled on your brown papered table included: organically farmed - native yeast fermentation - all wines bottled unfined and unfiltered - we practice regenerative farming - our mountain wines reflect the mineral, bright, crisp aspect of the volcano we grow on. You are a steward of the movement. My words.
*If I missed a mention, I apologize. I had a bit to drink.
