White dry
Perkins Harter is a micro-production winery in the Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon, founded by winegrower Shelby Perkins. She came to Oregon to make Chardonnay in 2016 and in 2018 established the Bracken vineyard on the western benchlands of the Eola Hills, at 190–230 metres, on volcanic Nekia, Ritner, Witzel and Jory soils. The vineyard is farmed organically, without synthetics or herbicides, and biodynamic practices have been used since 2019.
In 2024 budbreak came early, a record heatwave struck in early July, and the Chardonnay was picked on 20 September. The winemaker describes it as saline, fresh and slightly spicy, showing both the marine influence of the site and the savoury notes typical of the Eola benchlands, which will help carry the wine through time.
The wine was fermented with native yeast and aged for 11 months in experienced oak, save for one Chassin mixed-forest barrel.
Serve at 10–12 °C with pan-fried white fish, seafood, turkey or chicken.
Perkins Harter is a winery located in the state of Oregon (USA), creating wines according to the principles of sustainable and biodynamic agriculture. The estate is managed by winemaker Shelby Perkins Harter, who has Lithuanian roots. This assortment is intended for those who appreciate classic, clearly structured regional wines. Moderately oak-influenced Chardonnay and elegant Pinot Noir.
Perkins Harter Winemaking Philosophy and Origins
The winery's activities are closely tied to the experience of its founder. Shelby Perkins Harter, whose great-great-grandfather Aleksandras Kvietkauskas emigrated from Lithuania to the USA at the beginning of the 20th century, began her winemaking career in California. Today, her main professional focus is Oregon. It is here that she manages and oversees vineyards where strict biodynamic and sustainable farming standards are applied, ensuring minimal intervention in natural processes.
Wine Style and Assortment
The estate focuses on clearly structured wines that reflect the region's terroir. The production process aims to preserve the natural character of the grapes and a balanced acidity.