Ray’s is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the wine team from Willamette Valley Vineyards. The WVV team is currently bottling a Chardonnay exclusively for Ray’s!
Most people think of Oregon and the Willmaette Valley as the land of Pinot Noir; but amazing Chardonnay is the real secret behind our friends down south and we at Ray’s can’t wait to share this secret with you!
Founded in 1983 by Oregon native Jim Bernau, WVV believes that wines made with consideration for the environment, employees and community simply taste better. We couldn’t agree more. From their vineyard certification as LIVE & Salmon Safe, to their use of Biodiesel and support of native bee populations, WVV focus on sustainability and being true stewards of the land echoes Ray’s own history and ethos. Read more about all the team at WVV does here: wvv.com/sustainability
As for the Chardonnay, it’s delicious! The vines that were used to grow our own Ray’s Chardonnay are 100% Dijon Clone that hail directly from Burgundy! Founder Jim Bernau traveled with the Oregon Governor’s Delegation to Burgundy in the 1980s to seek out French clones to improve our state’s Chardonnay quality. These vines were brought back and quarantined at Oregon State University before being propagated for use in Oregon vineyards.
Naturally derived Dijon Clones from France being planted in the Willamette Valley was one of the greatest tipping points in Oregon wine quality.
We’re so excited for everyone to try our new wine when it arrives. Follow Ray’s on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to hear!
And be on the look out for a brand new Ray’s signature Pinot Noir coming soon!
