landmass wines
As a first generation winemaker, it’s difficult to say what propelled me into winemaking, but as soon as I experienced my first harvest I was hooked. There is something indescribably significant about accepting grapes from the earth and guiding them into something to share with others.
As the daughter of a mechanic and a teacher, I’ve witnessed how hard work and commitment to a skill are the key principles to honing a craft. In 2016 I stepped off the path to becoming a Sommelier and into wine production. Significantly less glamorous, winemaking is laborious and intense, but strangely feels more organic to me. The more I used my hands, the closer to my family’s roots I felt.
Technically trained, both academically and under the guidance of some of the Willamette Valley’s most intuitive and intelligent winemakers, I aim to make wines that grow as I do - with thoughtfulness and integrity. I let excitement and experimentation guide my practice and continue to learn each step of the way, aiming to create the best wines possible.
Melaney Schmidt
Rosé
Pinot Noir
These pinot noir grapes come from sustainably farmed vineyards in the Dundee Hills of Oregon. The 22 year old vines grow in volcanic, basalt soil. The wine goes through fermentation in 100% stainless steel. The saignée method rosé shows incredibly light in the glass yet has a wonderfully creamy texture, full of fruit.
Chenin Blanc
jerome
Sourced from the only chenin blanc vines planted in the Rogue Valley. The Varner-Traul Vineyard practices (though not certified) L.I.V.E. farming on alluvial, well draining (50% deficit irrigation) soil at 1900 feet. The juice goes through 100% stainless steel fermentation.
PEt Nat
100% Pinot Noir
Pinot noir from Ilahe’s L.I.V.E. certified, marine sedimentary soil vineyards in the Willamette Valley make this extended tirage Pet Nat. The vineyard sits at 420 feet elevation and is dry farmed by horses! The wine is lightly sparkling with great acid and wonderful brioche notes on the nose and fresh fruit on the palate.
