Hand Crafted
Micro Lot Wines
At Benmar, we embrace a winemaking philosophy rooted in innovation and a quest for excellence. We believe that the true magic of winemaking lies in the harmonious combination of different vineyards. Our approach is to meticulously source grapes from select vineyards, each contributing its unique character to the final blend. Enjoy! -scroll down to order :)
Above the Clouds
“...Bright cherry and raspberry notes, courtesy of the Dundee Hills, mingling with the darker plum and subtle savory hints characteristic of the Eola-Amity Hills. A touch of violet and fresh earth from the Chehalem Mountains adds aromatic complexity, while a grounding note of dark berry and a hint of spice from the Yamhill-Carlton provides depth.”
Alpine Lakes
Inspired by the breathtaking beauty and challenge of the Enchantments, a hike undertaken by our wives in the Pacific Northwest, this Pinot Noir captures the essence of adventure and exploration. The photo on the label, taken by my wife Jen, reflects the spirit of this remarkable wine. This is where Alpine Lakes was born. Harvested at peak ripeness, the grapes were carefully destemmed and underwent a gentle cold soak to extract vibrant color and aromas. Fermentation occurred in small, temperature-controlled tanks, allowing for the full expression of the fruit character.
Into the Fog
Our flagship wine — the 2023 Into the Fog Pinot Noir is a captivating organic blend that showcases the finest qualities of two renowned Oregon vineyards. The majority of the fruit, 85%, is sourced from a vineyard nestled in the Dundee Hills, while the remaining 15% is carefully selected from the esteemed Eola-Amity Hills. On the nose, this Pinot Noir greets you with an alluring medley of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and a subtle hint of earthiness, accompanied by delicate aromas of rose petals, cinnamon, and a touch of forest floor.
Springbok
Our Sophomore release, Springbok captures the very best of the Yamhill-Carlton sub-AVA. Our vintage is a rich and versatile wine that hails primarily from esteemed vineyards in the Yamhill-Carlton district. Jen captured this Spieden Island photo during our Orcas Island whale-watching trip. In the 1960s, it was a hunting reserve for exotic animals like lions and giraffes brought in by taxidermist brothers. As the local lore goes, a brave Springbok swam to Orcas Island, exposing the business on the island. You can still see some animals that have learned to adapt to the chilly island.
Sand Dune
Inspired by the beauty and enduring spirit of the Oregon Coast, “Sand Dune” reflects a time of connection and resilience. During the pandemic, we found solace in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean and the simple joys of coastal living. This Chardonnay, sourced from a renowned Dundee Hills vineyard, captures the essence of those cherished memories – a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us and the strength of the human spirit. The label, featuring a stunning photograph by my wife Jen, evokes the feeling of freedom and the interconnectedness we discovered during that time.
