The original estate vineyard consists of 11 acres planted to Syrah, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscat Ottonel. In 2006 we invested in an additional 5 acres which are planted with Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Muscat Ottonel, and Merlot.
All vines are sourced from either California or Washington State vine nurseries. Due to our unique climate we have very low pest pressure in the vineyard, and because of this our vines are self rooted, meaning we don;t use grafted vines, This offers several benefits in the vineyard and for the wines themselves.
Following is a brief description of the grape varieties planted at Garfield Estates:
- Viognier: Long revered and one of the most coveted white grape varietals in the Rhone Valley in France, Viognier is quickly being discovered in the U.S. Viognier grapes are deep yellow with beautiful floral aromas of apricot, peaches and blossom.
- Muscat-Ottonel: One of the many clones of Muscat, the Ottonel clone is very light, flowery and aromatic on the nose. It makes a wonderful desert style wine but can also be made into a unique white table wine.
- Semillon: This much-overlooked grape is traditionally blended with Sauvignon Blanc to make a dry white wine that can range from medium to full body and flavor intensity, with an aroma of ripe apricots or peaches.
- Sauvignon Blanc: With hints of citrus and bright melon fruit flavors, this variety can be made into a great light wine, perfect for a hot afternoon when served chilled. Sauvignon Blanc is often blended with Semillon and it has a heavy oak essence with tropical fruit flavors.
- Syrah: Syrah has garnered critical acclaim for its balance and complexity. Syrah produces a spicy, aromatic wine best associated with the wines of northern Rhone and Australia (where it is known as Shiraz). This full-flavored grape is known for producing strong, sturdy wines of deep purple color, capable of aging for many years.
- Cabernet Franc: The lesser known "cousin" of Cabernet Sauvignon, this grapes thirves in the Grand Valley. Softer and more medium boded that Cabernet Sauvignon, it resembles Pinot Noir in body, but with fruit characteristics of Cab Sauv. The wines are very approachable and food friendly.
- Malbec: This grape makes well known wines from Argentina. Our elevation and climate in Palisade are very similar to Mendoza, Argentina, where it is heavily planted. The wines are full bodied and very fruit forward. A rich jammy grape that may be destined to become a signature grape of the Grand Valley.
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