Fizz

2021 Pét tanNat (100% tannat Pét Nat

92 Points - Editors’ Choice - The Wine Enthusiast Winemaker Nate Wall impresses by making a bone-dry ultra brut style méthode ancestrale wine with Tannat from Troon’s biodynamically farmed estate vineyard. The first wave of aromas includes blood orange slices, flowering tobacco and red brick dust. Flavors include Granny Smith apple vinegar, raw filberts and green tea with a touch of honey. So get ready to pop the crown cap and have some fun. Editors’ Choice. —M.A.

Amber (Orange Wine)

2021 Amber Amphora Amber Vermentino

93 Points Jeff Kralik - “100% Vermentino. Certified Biodynamic. The fruit is harvested and crushed and then transferred to clay amphorae where it remains in skin contact for an astounding 10 months. Orange wines are not for everyone and I would certainly consider them an acquired taste, but if you want to learn more, start with a good one, and this Troon certainly fits that criterion. A cloudy golden or amber in the glass with pretty intense aromas: candle wax, chamomile, hazelnut, and decided spice (white pepper, coriander). The palate is a bit nutty and chalky with noticeable, but certainly mellow, tannins, along with orange peel, hazelnut, and chamomile. Again, orange wines are certainly on the “weird” side of winemaking (even though this is how they were likely made in antiquity), but this is a particularly wonderful one. Outstanding.”

93 Points Terroirist - Gorgeous light amber color. Such a spritely nose with scents of red apple and orange peels, honey, all sorts of blossoms, and some candle wax and honeycomb elements. The palate has a chalky, skin-contact tannins with a slightly dusty frame. Flavors of candied orange peel, pear skins, red apple peels, and very interesting elements of corn husk, hay, white tea, clay, and honeycomb. The flavors and textures are in-line, and for a skin-contact amphora wine this isn’t too “out there” – it stays focused, fresh, and event accessible. If you’re interested in these styles, or trying to convert friends or family, this is a great one to try. All whole-cluster fermented Vermentino – this producer is an expert with this grape

91 Points - Vinous - “The 2021 Amber Amphora, a varietal Vermentino, lifts from the glass with a bouquet of dried peaches and apricots complicated by hints of tangerine and mint. Soft and soothing, it coats the palate with a liquid floral staining as sweet citrus tones swirl throughout and brisk acidity maintains fantastic freshness. The medium-length finish is spicy, forcing the mouth to water as a nectarine tinge slowly fades.”

Pink

2023 Druid’s Pink

93 Points BevX.com -  The finish is long and lingering with tart red fruits that present a slight effervescence. Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced with a vibrant texture

92 Points Paul Gregutt - “The low alcohol, palate-refreshing mouthfeel and sublime minerality makes this a delightful wine to open for a taste of autumn”

2023 Ascendent Rosé

92 Points - Issac James Baker - “Pale copper color. Complex and inviting on the nose, with red apple peel, white cherries, wild raspberries, topped in dandelion greens, honeysuckle, and sea breeze. The palate is punchy and juicy but racy with the acidity, making for a lip-smacking and balanced pink. Watermelon, red and white cherries, the ripe and tangy fruit blends well with nuances of mint, crushed shells, mountain stream, basil, and white pepper. A breezy, delicious rosé from Troon that should age well. 38% Cinsault, 33% Mourvèdre, 11% Grenache, 10% Counoise, 8% Carignan.”

97 Points - BevX.com

90 Points - Paul Gregutt - “This is part of a series of estate wines blended from the typical varieties of the Rhône, Provence, and Languedoc-Roussillon regions in France. Future releases in the Ascendent series will include red, white and amber wines. This rosé is 38% Cinsault, 33% Mourvèdre, 11% Grenache, 10% Counoise and 8% Carignan. It’s a coppery gold in color, scented with wet hay  and dried apples, light in flavor but palate-pleasing. Not yet released. 200 cases; 12.5%

White

2023 Druid’s White

93 Points BevX.com - The Troon Vineyard Druid's White is ultra cool as Troon Vineyards celebrates their great estate vineyard fruit and thoughtful winemaking.

92 Points Paul Gregutt - All estate-grown, biodynamic fruit here – a blend of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Vermentino and Roussanne. There’s an intentional wildness to this wine, a feral quality that adds depth and dimension to the wine. The apple, white peach and melon fruits are annotated with threads of citrus rind and Asian spice.

22 Druid’s White

96 Points - BevX.com - This wine is so incredibly charming and complex — you must try it.

91 Points - Catherine Fallis Master Sommelier

Excellent. 92 Points - Jeff Kralik “The exact blend is never revealed (rather cheeky of Troon), but the website lists “Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Bourboulenc and Vermentino” as possible in the blend. Golden in color with a lovely nose of tropical fruit and lemon curd with even a touch of caramel. The palate is fantastic: great fruit, intense tartness, depth of flavors, and incredible character. All that for twenty-five bucks? Sign me up every day (and twice on Sunday). 

Alder Yarrow in Vinography “I can recommend the white equivalent of the red I reviewed last week, from Troon Vineyard. The Druid’s White is an unspecified blend of bright and crunchy white grape varieties with a nice balance of fruity and savory qualities and a price that’s hard to beat, especially for a biodynamic wine grown with gold-level Regenerative Organic Certified grapes.”

2022 Vermentino

99 Points - BevX.com - “We have been a fan of the Troon Vermentino since first tasting their 2014 vintage — now they are flirting with perfection. It was clear then, and remains certain now, that the climate and soils in Oregon's Applegate Valley is ideal for growing grapes like Vermentino.”

93 Points - “Hidden Gem Selection” The Wine Enthusiast “This exhilarating wine smells like a Sicilian lemon grove under a midafternoon sun. There's also aromas of a salty sea breeze and crushed granite dust. The lithe and lean palate suggests tangerines and a flavor similar to either green tea with lemon or a cup of yerba maté. Either way, the wine's acidity will snap you out of the doldrums.” — Michael Alberty

Outstanding. 94 Points - Jeff Kralik “Responsible bottle (462g; 1lb 0.3oz). DIAM10 closure. I have written a ton about Troon, I have visited, even stayed over night on the property, and thus I confess as a full-blown lover of the winery and the wines. Having said that, I do try to keep my reviews of the wines honest. Troon used to call this wine Rolle (the French name for Vermentino) and I applauded them for that, being the Francophile that I am. But they switched to the more widely known term a few years ago and I Rolled with it (yeah, I went there). Well, this might be the best iteration of Troon’s interpretation of the variety thus far. Rich, layered, intense, and nuanced, it is all there. Exotic, tropical, and citrus fruit all compete on the nose with a seashell-like salinity, and a bit of acacia flower for good measure. The palate is rich, as I mentioned, round, and textured, but there is also a driving acidity that brings it into a near impeccable balance, all leading to a lengthy finish. Yowza. And Whoa!”

92 Points - Paul Gregutt - “ Sporting a pretty new label design depicting a chamomile blossom, this minimal intervention biodynamic wine is fresh, brisk, detailed and lively. Scents of wild herbs and wildflowers add a rustic country touch, while the palate brings fresh, compact flavors of lemony citrus rind and yes, chamomile tea

92 Points - Catherine Fallis Master Sommelier

90 Points - Vinography - “Palest yellow-gold in the glass, this wine smells of candied lemons and grapefruit zest. In the mouth, bright lemony grapefruit and green apple flavors have a juicy zing thanks to excellent acidity. There might even be the faintest hint of salinity in the finish of this wine. Quite tasty.”

 90 Points - Vinous - “The 2022 Vermentino lifts from the glass with a spicy blend of lime zests and crushed green apples. This opens with a pleasant inner sweetness and crisp orchard fruits, taking on lovely floral perfumes toward the close. It finishes classically dry and bright with a lingering Granny Smith crunchiness.”

2022 Roussanne

93 Points - The Wine Enthusiast - “Acidity that causes hairs to stand upright makes this a pretty thrilling sipping experience. Fermented and aged in concrete tanks, this mineral-laden Roussanne hits first with aromas of toasted pumpkin seeds, earth, herbaceous daisies and green tea. Green apple, zesty lemon and yellow grapefruit flavors are as pure as the driven snow.”

Excellent 91 Points - Jeff Kralik - Ridiculously Responsible bottle (470g; 1lb 0.5oz). Under DIAM5. 100% Roussanne. Another stellar wine from one of my favorite producers; Troon seems to do everything right in regards to preserving the planet while making stellar wines. Add this to the list. While I view Roussanne as a bifurcating variety (you either love it or hate it), I feel this iteration can appeal to both sides. Straw to yellow in the glass with fantastic fruit aromas of lemon rind, guava, and mango. Add in a bit of honeysuckle and spice and we are getting there. The palate is round, full, and robust, all while being tart and angular. Tons of contrast, oodles of tropical fruit, and loads of great vibes. Excellent. 91 Points.

2022 Grenache Blanc

93 Points - Issac James Baker “Bright lemon color. A fresh and inviting aromatic display of green apples, white peach, and kiwi, along with almond skin, saltine cracker, and flinty minerals. Racy and taut on the palate but this has an incredibly deep texture, with this harmony between waxy and oceanic elements. Green apple, papaya, white peach, the fruit is mixed with nuanced tones of oyster shell, white pepper, and some green herbs and savory tones that need air to come out. A nerd’s wine but one that a casual fan would likely also find delicious. This spends 17 months in neutral French oak.”

98 Points - BevX.com

Red

2023 Druid’s Red

96 Points BevX.com - The finish is long and lingering with chewy tannins. Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with an opulent texture

91 Points Paul Gregutt - A five grape southern Rhône-style blend, this full-flavored wine stacks red and blue plums, elderberries, sour cherries and blood orange highlights in a broad, balanced, lightly savory palate. I am certain that as this vineyard matures, the flavors will deepen and add more aromatic detail. The all-estate Druid wines, excellent values.

2022 Druid’s Red

95 Points BevX.com - The Druid's Red is ultra cool as Troon Vineyards shows us their unique take on a Côtes du Rhone-style wine done with gusto.

Excellent. 90 Points - Jeff Kralik “Very Responsible bottle (471g; 1lb 0.6oz). Under DIAM. “The 2022 Druid’s Red blend is composed primarily of grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre, along with a lagniappe of other varieties.” No longer called “Druid’s Fluid” but more simply “Druid’s Red”, this deep magenta wine is approachable from the first to last drop. Tons of fruit both on the nose and the palate, most of it dark with blackberry, blueberry, and even boysenberry floating around. There is also a bubblegum aspect that makes me think there is at least a touch of carbonic maceration going on. Fruity and fun with plenty of tartness; a fantastic burger, pizza kinda wine.”

2022 Siskiyou Syrah

93 Points - Catherine Fallis Master Sommelier

91 Points - Vinous “The 2022 Syrah Siskiyou opens with a burst of exotic spices and white pepper-tinged wild berries. This is racy and sleek with stimulating acidity that elevates its tart red and black fruits. A youthful tension lingers along with grippy tannins as the 2022 tapers off classically dry with a hint of salted licorice that carries on.”

2021 Syrah

97 Points - BevX.com “Troon Vineyard has gone all-in on Syrah and they are setting a standard for Syrah on America’s west coast. Troon’s Syrah is more balanced and restrained than most New World Syrah with moderate alcohol and an ideal balance of acidity — it’s certainly made in the mold of the Rhone Valley. “

95 Points - “Cellar Selection” - The Wine Enthusiast - “Raspberries, perhaps intermixed with strawberries, join forces with white pepper and violets to create a set of aromas that suggest northern Rhône via the Applegate Valley. Brilliant acidity and firm tannins support flavors like tart blackberries, pine needles and cedar. The wine's texture is as smooth as silk. Enjoy 2023–2034.” — Michael Alberty

92 Points - Paul Gregutt - “This fascinating wine piles on scents of damp foliage, composting herbs, peat and cured meat – all that before it touches your lips. In the mouth bright, tangy citrus and spicy berry fruits barrel ahead, with a zesty liveliness that elevates the impact. It’s young, polished and impeccably fresh, relatively light but bursting with flavor.”

91 Points - Vinous “The 2021 Syrah is uniquely appealing, with an enticing blend of mint, rosemary, and pine that introduces mentholated blackberry fruit. It flows across the palate with lifted textures, its perfumed red and black fruits seeming to hover. Hints of sour citrus linger through the long, tension-filled finale as liquid violet staining resonates. The 2021 is like a florist shop on the nose and palate. Wild.”

93 Points - Catherine Fallis Master Sommelier

2022 Amphora Mourvèdre

94 Points - Editors’ Choice -The Wine Enthusiast “The mouthfeel is fresh and invigorating, with brilliant acidity.”

Outstanding 93 Points - Jeff Kralik “When it comes to red wine, I can count on one hand the number of times I have said “I could really go for a Mourvèdre.” It tends to be heavy, very fruity, and dark. Well, this wine is perhaps not “heavy” but the other two attributes are certainly here as it is on the dark side and there is plenty of dark fruit (blueberry, blackberry), a touch of earth, and more than an ounce of brood. What sets this wine apart from other Mourvèdres (at least for me) is that the driver here is clearly the tartness. Holy cow. Lip-smacking goodness from the jump carries all the way through to the finish. Yowza!”

90 Points - Alder Yarrow in Vinography - Medium garnet in color, this wine smells of blueberries, dried flowers, and a hint of saddle leather. In the mouth, blueberry, boysenberry, and dried herb flavors mix with a hint of barnyard manure and potting soil. Notes of dried herbs and flowers linger with a little bit of dried citrus peel in the finish. Stony, powdery tannins coat the mouth. Excellent acidity. Includes 25% Grenache. Between 30% and 35% whole cluster fermentation with native yeasts and no additions in open-top fermenting bins, then transferred to a large terra-cotta amphora for 10 months of aging. Demeter-certified biodynamic. Gold Regenerative Organic Farming certified

90 Points - Vinous - “The 2022 Mourvèdre Amphora opens with a darkly alluring blend of crushed raspberries and cloves elevated by hints of mint. Silky-smooth and juicy in feel, it flows across the palate with crisp wild berries and mineral tones. Fresh acidity wins the day as the 2022 tapers off long and structured, leaving the mouth watering for more.’

2023 Glou-Glou

90 Points - Issac James Baker - “Vibrant ruby color. A bright aromatic display of strawberries, cranberries, and wild raspberries, with spiced herbal tea, rose hips, and rhubarb. On the palate, this is crushable and bright with a brisk and pleasant appeal. Flavors of tart cranberry relish and red apple peel with some deeper cherry fruit, and a cool mix of spicy herbs, white pepper, rose petals, and dusty earth. Fun and fresh but can’t deny the balance and complexity. A great summer sipper that will win over a lot of fans at the barbecue, I wager. A blend of Cinsault and Grenache.”

92 Points - BevX.com

90 Points - Paul Gregutt - “This nouveau-styled wine is 62% Cinsault, 38% Grenache. It fits neatly into the suddenly-popular chillable red category – though closer to a dark rosé than a full-on red wine. In fact it’s lighter than the winery’s 2021 Glou-Glou which was all Grenache. Lovely aromatics of cherry blossoms, fresh loam and coffee grounds set up the palate. It’s slightly earthy, crisp and showing strawberry, raspberry and cranberry fruit; definitely a wine to drink young. Note the clear glass bottle – another reason to enjoy it over the next year (maybe with that Thanksgiving turkey!). 275 cases; 12.6%

2020 Tannat

93 Points Outstanding Jeff Kralik - 76% Tannat, 24% Malbec. Under DIAM10. Demeter (Biodynamic) certified. Outside of southwestern France and Uruguay, there simply is not a lot of Tannat made. It can be a harsh, tannic wine, and has been known to take decades to soften up. Troon’s approach (along with a healthy dose of the much softer Merlot in the blend) works magically, as this wine is not only approachable but delicious right out of the bottle. Dark and brooding in the glass with plenty of dark fruit, a touch of anise, and an intensely floral, perfumed aspect. The palate follows suit, with plenty of fruit, spice, nice acidity, and a funk that I certainly associate with the variety

93 Points - The Wine Enthusiast -  This blend of 76% Tannat and 24% Malbec begins with scents of dusty roadside blackberries, leather and a note reminiscent of wet river rocks. Flavors such as black cherry, leather and balsa wood surf a medium-bodied palate with nicely integrated tannins and elevated acidity. —M.A.

92 Points Terroirist - Deep purple color. The nose of tart black currants and blackberries is great, laced with complexities of smashed rocks, anise, tar, pencil shavings, dried violet petals. The palate is grippy but suave with tangy acidity and a nice core of tar blueberries and currants. Elements of smoky earth, charcoal, anise, coffee grounds and violets add complexity. The notes of savory broth and mushroom need years to unravel, and this will age gloriously for quite some time. Deep, tangy, balanced, spicy – a ton to love

Articles About Troon Vineyard

Exceptional Wines from the Rhone Rangers Tasting in Sonoma - Organic Wines Uncorked "I don't think anyone is doing more to embody the biodynamic spirit and commitment here in the U.S. than Craig Camp and the team at Troon Vineyard in southern Oregon. (Camp is also the president of the Rhone Rangers.)"

Sol Searching: Oregon wineries harness energy from the sun “Garret Long, Troon’s director of agriculture, explains, “Multifunctionality of solar is very important. Over the next couple years, as we continue replacing old equipment with electric, this marks a crucial transition away from our dependence on petroleum. It’s an exciting future!”

Dynamic Milestone-Celebrating the centennial anniversary of biodynamics “Biodynamics is not one thing,” explains Camp. “It’s many things to many people. There is a spiritual aspect to biodynamics. However, I think the spirituality is something you find by practicing this type of agriculture. Eventually, because you farm this way, you develop a spiritual connection to your land. Each farmer’s spiritual connection is unique to them as people and to the distinctive characteristics of their farm.

New Meets Old Part One - Ancient winemaking techniques in the modern world “Nate Wall, Troon’s winemaker, says, “I strive to maintain the integrity and purity of the grapes throughout the winemaking process… revealing what I believe is a true expression of the varieties themselves along with our unique terroir.” Wall doesn’t differentiate between modern and ancient winemaking techniques. Instead, he practices minimal intervention production with integrity.

As Oregon Wineries Add Ingredient and Nutrition Info to Labels, Will More Follow? “Two weeks later, Troon Vineyard in Grants Pass announced it was adding QR codes to the ingredient labels it launched in 2023. The codes direct consumers to the winery’s website to receive information on ingredients, nutritional information and wine packaging, including bottle weight.”

How an Oregon Winery is Unlocking the Potential of Biodiversity with Regenerative Agriculture

An Interview with Craig Camp of Southern Oregon's Troon Vineyard & Farm “With biodiversity, we are trying to keep everything in balance. And that becomes a self-sustaining system.”

Walking the Walk at Troon Vineyard by Norm Roby - “Organic and biodynamic are not the same" was the first lesson brought home during a recent visit to Troon Vineyard in the Applegate Valley of Southern Oregon. It turned out to be the first of many new things learned during this eye-opening visit.”

Southern Oregon’s Rivers Include Rivers of Wine by Mike Dunne - “Troon Vineyard & Farm southeast of Grants Pass is the place to head for anyone who wants to be introduced to all the wine world’s fashionable buzzwords – social fairness, animal welfare, and organic, biodynamic, and regenerative farming.

When it comes to forward-looking agriculture, the only certification that Troon lacks is designation as the Oregon branch of the viticulture and enology department of the University of California, Davis, the place is that much into research and education.”

Your Cure for Boring Summer Wines by Paul Gregutt - Few wineries in the Northwest have managed a more impressive ugly duckling to beautiful swan transition than southern Oregon's Troon Vineyard. The vineyard's origins date back to the early 1970s, but in 2015-16 an infusion of new owners and new concepts implemented by General Manager Craig Camp, Winemaker Nate Wall and Director of Agriculture Garett Long have utterly transformed and energized the site and the wines.

Troon’s Craig Camp is interviewed on the RegenBrands Podcast

Why the Wine World May Depend on Regenerative Agriculture — Starting Now

“When Craig Camp took over as general manager of Troon Vineyard in southern Oregon in 2016, the property had been conventionally farmed for many years, and the plants were missing many of the basic nutrients they needed. But when he had the soil tested, he discovered those nutrients were already there.

“You ask yourself, ‘Why isn’t it going from the soil to the vine?’” Camps says. “The answer is typically that the soil microbes that act as a conduit from the dirt to the plant can’t do their job properly because they’re lacking nutrients. That’s when you discover you should be farming the soil and the vine will take care of itself.”

What Is Carbon Sequestration and Why Is It Important for the Wine Industry?

“The way I often think about carbon sequestration is in the wider conversation about soil health,” says Garett Long, the director of agriculture for Troon Vineyard, a Demeter Biodynamic® Certified and Regenerative Organic Certified™️ winery and vineyard in Oregon’s Applegate Valley.

Long, who holds a Master’s in Soils and Biogeochemistry from UC Davis, employs the “five principles of soil health” at Troon: composting, avoiding soil disturbance, keeping living roots growing, maximizing diversity, and integrating livestock.”

Troon Vineyard Joins World’s Regenerative Elite, Becomes 1 of 4 Farms Globally to Achieve Regenerative Organic Certified Gold

Southern Oregon’s Troon Vineyard is the second vineyard in the world — and fourth farm overall — to receive the Regenerative Organic Alliance’s Regenerative Organic Certified Gold designation. It will also be the first winery to release wines with the Regenerative Organic Certified Gold label on it.

Celebrating Earth Day with Troon Vineyard

Troon Vineyard, located in Southwest Oregon’s Applegate Valley, is one of them. This winery and farm of nearly 100 acres is certified Organic, Demeter Biodynamic, and Regenerative Organic Certified. By gaining these certifications, Troon Vineyard shows a strong commitment to improving the environment.

However, Troon Vineyards acknowledges that it is a small piece of the puzzle. “What we do on our 100-acre farm will not change the world unless we convince other farmers and winemakers to adopt that same mission,” says Craig Camp, General Manager at Troon Vineyards. “Also, we must convince wine consumers that wine crafted with quality, place, and planet in mind is worth the search.” Celebrating Earth Day with Troon Vineyard

Made with Intention: Troon Vineyard’s Druid Fluid Biodynamic Oregon Blends by Cindy Rynning

“For years, I’ve enjoyed wines from Troon Vineyard, a Demeter Biodynamic Certified and Regenerative Organic Certified farm in Applegate Valley, Oregon. With the management and winemaking teams consistently producing wines that adhere to their vision, it’s a joy to taste and appreciate quality

The Road to Regenerative Organic Certified - Keith Edwards

“As was the case for the first winery to attain Regenerative Organic certification – Tablas Creek – Troon Vineyard, the second winery to claim that honor, is organic- and biodynamic-certified and is focused on wines made from Rhone varieties. Their life experiences, however, have been markedly different”

Troon Vineyard Earns Regenerative Organic Certification - Organic Grower

“You have to be fully committed and believe in what you are doing,” said Craig Camp, general manager of Troon Vineyard. “The Regenerative Organic slogan is ‘Farm like the world depends on it.’ That’s what you have to be prepared to do. Certifications are not hard to do if you are committed to the health of your farm.”

Oregon’s Troon Vineyard earns Regenerative Organic Certified label, one of 2 wineries worldwide - The Oregonian

“Troon Vineyard of Grants Pass is known for its thoughtful farming of grape varieties made famous by wines from France’s Rhône Valley. Grapes such as syrah, viognier and grenache are grown using various organic practices to improve soil health and sequester carbon.

Thanks to its approach to farming, Troon is one of the first two wineries in the world to earn the Regenerative Organic Certified label for its wines.”

Offbeat Bubbles - Oregon Wine Press - “Making pét-nat is a very engaging process, as everything takes place during harvest,” Camp revealed. “You pick the grapes and press them the same day. A few days later, they’re fermenting, and you have to watch the sugar levels closely every day, as the bottling window is so short. Then the sugar hits the spot you’re looking for, and you have to drop everything and bottle the wine.”

Wednesday Winery Spotlight: Troon Vineyard - I have known Craig Camp, the general manager at Troon, for over a decade now and how he has transformed Troon has truly been remarkable… Troon is now the leader among producers from the region, championing organic farming as well as highlighting somewhat out of the mainstream varieties and styles

Wine’s Most Inspiring People of the Year, Craig Camp - Wine Industry Insider - “Camp is now charged with getting deep into vineyard management, making the neglected Troon Vineyards and Winery into a biodynamic powerhouse and, subsequently, turning out wines from grapes planted in healthy soils that are appropriate for the vines planted there.”

CRAIG CAMP, ÉTATS-UNIS - Du carignan et du mourvèdre contre le réchauffement climatique - Mon Viti (French Viticultural Magazine)

Building vineyard biodiversity to combat climate emergency - The Buyer (British Wine Trade Magazine)

Civilta de Bere (Italian Wine Magazine)

Tutti pazzi per il Vermentino. Perché? Secondo Craig Camp, esperto di vino e amministra- tore della Troon Vineyard nell’Oregon del sud: «Il Vermentino è il sogno di ogni enologo: facile da piantare e far crescere, sensibile a pochi parassiti; è amico sia dell’acciaio inox sia del legno». Infatti questo vitigno, dalla facile pronuncia (per noi americani, ndr), è vinificato in diversi stili, il che è importante sia per chi ci lavora sia per il consumatore finale, che non vuole sembrare poco colto quando ordina un vino. (Page 25)

Troon: A vineyard reimagined - Wine Press Northwest

Troon’s dedication for regenerative agriculture means a much more focused growing program, one with purpose and intent that creates wines that truly reflect a sense of place in the Applegate Valley. 

Located in a distinctive growing area between the Napa and Willamette, the Applegate Valley is at 1,400 feet of elevation, surrounded by the Siskiyou Mountains and 60 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The cool ocean breezes that cut through the mountains thicken the grapes’ skins, creating wines with moderate alcohol and high acid. 

Camp likens the style to wines from Mediterranean regions like the Rhone Valley in France. Their location is warmer and dryer than the Willamette Valley, but cooler and wetter than Napa. Camp says they have a shorter growing season than Napa, but get 70 minutes more of sunshine daily and no fog. As the days get shorter, sugar accumulation stops, resulting in fully ripened fruit and lower alcohol wines.

Bet On Piquette - Oregon Wine Press

Craig Camp at Troon Vineyard says they combined Tannat, Marsanne and Primitivo pomace, which intentionally retained a fair amount of juice after pressing for the still wines. They pressed it dry, bottled and capped it, and allowed the fermentation to commence naturally. The result was classically cloudy, pink wine with a substantial sparkle at 10.5% alcohol.

Troon’s winemaker Nate Wall makes both pét-nat and piquette from Tannat. Even though Tannat is a very pigmented red, the Troon Pét-tanNat (as the winery calls it) looks clear because it is made from free-run juice immediately drawn off for fermentation. The remainder goes to make piquette. Recycling the pomace complements their commitment to Biodynamics, which just this year has culminated in both the Troon vineyard and winery earning Demeter Certification.

Winemaking, Life and Choices - On the Vine

“When I came it looked like concrete - totally compacted, hard as a rock,” Craig said. “There were a lot of vine diseases. I felt that biodynamics was the only route to rejuvenate the site.” In 2019 they completed the three-year process of becoming certified Demeter Biodynamic and are beginning to re-plant the vineyard with Rhône varieties. “The differences we’ve been able to achieve are really stunning in soil health and plant health,” said Craig. In this new direction is a commitment to not only restore but improve this historic site. "

Oregon Biodynamic Wine in the Spotlight: Stunning Examples from Troon Vineyard and Winderlea Vineyards & Winery - Wine Casual

“Craig Camp, General Manager of Troon Vineyard, shared a stunning example of Troon’s Kubli Bench Amber 2019 made in an orange-wine style from riesling, vermentino and viognier.
I’ve sampled many orange wines, including amphora wines from Georgia (country), and this is hands down the best, aromatically-led, orange wine I have ever had the pleasure to enjoy”

The ROC certification could become the gold standard for wineries, and the earth - The Washington Post

Troon Vineyard in Oregon’s Applegate Valley, is also certified biodynamic and organic, and quickly applied for the new label. “The focus on regeneration is what is key to me,” says Craig Camp, the winery’s general manager. “We have to put back more than we take to establish a natural food growing system.”

Troon Renaissance: Historic Applegate Vineyard goes Biodynamic - Oregon Wine Press - “Troon Vineyard is a story of rebirth, regeneration and rediscovery.”

Funky Bubbles Democratize Sparkling Wine by Michelle Williams “In 2019, Craig Camp, of Troon Vineyards in Applegate Valley, Oregon, discovered that Wild Arc Farm, in New York’s Hudson Valley, was making piquette. As the manager of a newly converted biodynamic winery, Camp saw an opportunity to produce “fun” bubbles, while incorporating his “no-waste” philosophy. Troon’s inaugural bottling is “a mélange of the pomace from whole-cluster pressings for our white and rosé wines,” says Camp. The gentle nature of Troon’s pressing eliminated the need for added sweetener, required little additional water, and finished with a light disgorgement. The result is dangerously delicious low-alcohol fizz and ideal summer refreshment.”

Rhône Rangers Wrap Up by Stephen McConnell - “Biggest excitement of the day was probably Craig Camp bringing his lineup of wines down from The Troon Vineyard Southern Oregon. I’ve been wanting to try these for a long time and reminds me how bad I need to go visit that part of Oregon. This is NOT Willamette–don’t make the mistake of lumping all of Oregon in together. These are beautiful wines–ripe and delicious–while showing incredible acid, remarkable fruit, and great restraint. The white blend especially–my favorite Rhone Blend of the day, reds extremely restrained low-alcohol nice.”

The Transformation of Troon Vineyard by Tamara Belgard “Improving the quality of wine doesn’t always just take place in the cellar, sometimes it needs to be done from the ground up. Located in Southern Oregon’s Applegate Valley, Troon Vineyard has, and still is, been undergoing a complete transformation. More than just a rebrand, the estate winery has practically reinvented itself under new ownership and new leadership.”

Treating the Vines Right - Kansas City Homes and Style Magazine - “In 2016, a decision was made to change directions, to move toward a more sustainable wine growing and winemaking approach. General Manager Craig Camp says Troon is trying to heal the vineyards and repair more than 40-years of damage. “The amount of damage traditional farming does is incredible. Fortunately, the Earth is quite resilient. I knew from experience that this was the only route to rebuilding these soils. Troon Vineyard has been farmed 100% organically and bio-dynamically since 2017,” Camp shared.

A Conversation with Denise and Bryan White, Proprietors of Troon Vineyard - by Melanie Bianco Ofenloch - “ We didn’t find Troon, it found us”

A Talk with Craig Camp of Troon Vineyard by The Wine Write - “Drawn by the challenge of promoting an up and coming wine region, Craig made his way to Troon Vineyard in 2016. He's championing biodynamic farming there and working to toot the horn about the nice things happening now at Troon and the Applegate Valley.”

Exploring Oregon’s Other White Wines, in The Wine Enthusiast by Paul Gregutt - “In Southern Oregon, Albariño, Viognier and white Rhône-style blends are catching on, notably in the Applegate Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), where Troon is also working wonders with Vermentino. Troon 2017 Vermentino (Applegate Valley); $18, 90 points. In the midst of a major transformation to new varieties, a biodynamic vineyard and innovative fermentations, Troon scores with this rich, toasty, barrel-fermented white wine. A ripe mix of fruits brings poached pear and banana to the front, with a lick of vanilla custard as the wine trails off. Delicious already, so drink up. Editors’ Choice.

Science Meets Biodynamics at Troon Vineyard by Jeff Burrows - “They are pursuing full Demeter certification, and they are applying modern scientific methods to understand the changes in the vineyard as they move from Live Certified sustainable to certified organic and biodynamic operation.”

Oregon’s Iberian Connection by Paul Gregutt - The Wine Enthusiast “In the Applegate Valley, Grenache gives a very delicate, elegant wine with weight more like you find in Oregon Pinot Noir, but layered with a spicy, white pepper component” 

The Good Sh*t - Biodynamic Preparations at Troon by Joe Roberts “ 2018 will be Troon’s first 100% certified Biodynamic vintage, and the thinking behind it has nothing to do with smoking the other “good sh*t” big agricultural crop (marijuana) in Troon’s neck of the woods; the plan is that Biodynamic farming can help the resiliency of the vines, and therefore allow for more dry-farming, less water usage, and increasingly better and better vineyard fruit. Combined with six full-time vineyard staff, “you get a different level of care in the vineyard” according to Camp.”

Burgeoning Southern Oregon by Kelli White in GuildSomm - “Troon, one of the region’s more historic wineries, is located at a wider spot in the valley. It was established in 1972 but today is run by two Napa Valley expats. While their site is not quite as marginal as Cowhorn, they find the growing conditions challenging but also compelling. “Yes, it’s a truncated season, but we also have more daylight hours during the summer. Then, in October, the daylight hours drop dramatically. It’s honestly startling, but as it’s still warm, you get flavor development, while the low light makes for limited photosynthesis,” Craig Camp explains. “We end up making wines that are more European in weight, higher in acid, and with less fruit-forward aromatics.”

Block and Tackle by Joe Roberts - “ The additions of foot-treading and Biodynamics to the mix helped to put the finishing touches on the approach, and Troon was, in a very real sense, thus reborn as a brand. What hasn’t changed is that Troon’s small vineyard location is capable of some excellent winegrowing magic when the right varieties are planted. Troon is more or less surrounded by the Siskiyou Mountains, near a wider section of the Applegate River, with river bench soils that consist of pieces of ancient seabed, granite, and sediment. “We have a mostly Northern California climate here,” Craig noted, “with a shorter growing season. So we can produce wines with European ‘weights.'”

This Wine Region is Trending: Applegate Valley - Snooth

"When asked if he agreed with me that Applegate Valley AVA was poised for an explosive presence throughout the wine industry, including consumers and critics alike, Camp answered, " The Applegate is going to gain attention for the same reason that Sardegna and Corsica are now getting serious attention.  Complex, interesting wines at prices people can afford to drink."
Food and Wine Pairing: Troon and College Football - Michelle Williams

Christy Canterbury, M.W. - "Since I last tasted Troon wines, in Southern Oregon in July 2013, the winemaker and winemaking approach have changed. They were pleasant before, so I was curious to see what I would find in the wines post-makeover. I’m happy to report that this Southern Oregon pioneer continues to push boundaries in the right direction."

Madiran vs Applegate Valley - "Why Applegate Valley? It is home to Troon Vineyard and their 100% Tannat wine. Craig Camp took over as General Manager at Troon Vineyards in 2016. Craig is a man I admire. Not only does he have great insight to the wine industry, everywhere he goes high quality wines follows." Michelle Williams, Dallas

All Fired Up! Light the Grill and Pour Troon Wines, Cindy Rynning, Chicago

Craig Camp: Succeeding at Making Great Wine, Michelle Williams, Dallas

Why Wine? An Interview with Troon Vineyard's Craig Camp, Michele Francisco, Portland 

Punching Down with Craig Camp of Troon Vineyard, Brianne Cohen, San Francisco

Wine Pioneers in Oregon, Troon Vineyard's Craig Camp, BK Wine Magazine, Sweden

Oregon Wine: It's Not all Pinot Noir, New York

Troon Vineyard: A Glimpse Into the Next Big AVA, Melanie Ofenloch, Dallas

Troon Red Label: A Complex, Classy Zin, Reverse Wine Snob, Seattle

Food and Wine Pairing: Troon Vermentino, Michelle Williams, Dallas

Binnotes: A Conversation with Troon's Craig Camp, Seattle

Troon Wines: Something Special Out of Southern Oregon, Los Angeles

James Melendez Interview Series with Troon General Manager Craig Camp, San Francisco

Malbec + Tannat = Troon - Fredric Koeppel, Memphis

A Six Pack of Troon - Gang of Pour, Detroit

#Food & #Wine Pairing: Going Hardcore Carnivore with Troon Wines, Dallas

Swoon for Troon -  "There is no doubt that the wines of Troon are firmly on my radar now and I think that the winery is in great hands and will soon make a greater impact on a national scale." Jeff Kralik, Houston

The Pioneering Spirit of Troon Vineyard by Michelle Williams, Dallas

Troon Vineyards: A New Journey has Begun for this Historic Winery, Des Moines

Why Would You Leave Paradise? - Kansas City Star

Leaving Forward to Troon Vineyard - Kansas City Star