Pioneering Oregon Wineries

 

Evesham Wood Vineyard
1986-2010

Evesham WoodEvesham Wood Winery and Vineyard was founded in 1986 by Russ and Mary Raney.  The couple purchased land in the Eola Hills not far from West Salem and planted 12.5 acres to Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer.  Their winery was built into a hillside so it had the advantage of being naturally cooled.

Early in his career Raney worked in retail wine shops in both St. Louis and Portland.  After graduating from college he went to Germany to study and graduated from the State Technical School for Enology and Viticulture in Bad Kreuznach.  Mary studied horticulture at Southern Ilinois University.

Raney was known as one of the best winemakers in Oregon.  In 2005 Matt Kramer, wine writer and columnist for Wine Spectator stated “…hands-down Raney is one of Oregon’s finest winegrowers”.  He commented that “quality is superb, the austere winemaking style rewards extended cellaring, and prices are among the lowest for some of the state’s highest-quality wines.  What’s not to like?”

Raney made complex Pinot Noirs that were unfiltered and very age-worthy.  His Chardonnays were rich and concentrated.

Evesham Wood was located at 2995 Michigan City Avenue, West Salem, OR 97304.


 

Fun Fact

Evesham Wood Vineyard was sold in 2010 to Erin Nuccio who also owned the Haden Fig label. The Raney’s stated “We feel great about going out at the top of our game.”