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Ricochet Wine Company 2018 Grüner Veltliner
Bouncing back
The primary meaning of “ricochet” is to bounce in an unpredictable direction. But to Erich Berg, it means bouncing back, finding a new direction, a new purpose.
Out of college, he was going to sell health insurance, but the cubicle-and-headset life wasn’t for him. Working at a Chicago restaurant, he convinced local wine distributors to teach him a few things about wine. Before long, he was the sommelier and maître d'.
The Chicago winters were rough so – sight unseen – he and his wife moved to the Willamette Valley. He picked up a job in the wine business, but after three years, broke his hip. His next move? Teach high school English in Dallas, Oregon for six years.
And then, he finally got his shot at making wine at Illahe Vineyards. But the teaching bug had bit, so after three years, he went back – this time teaching kids who were incarcerated.
Today, Erich’s got his own label. And Ricochet is all about showing those young people that no matter what life throws at you, you can always bounce back.
5% of all profits support Remnant Initiatives, to help formerly incarcerated individuals get back on their feet.
Cellar 503 Tasting Notes
Ricochet Wine Company, Dundee, Oregon
2018 Grüner Veltliner
Wow! This is the sixth time we’ve featured Grüner Veltliner, I guess I’ve got a thing for this grape.
And why not? This lovely, high acid, interesting wine is perfect with food and grows amazingly well here in Oregon. Often overlooked, Grüner is a versatile grape that can be made in many different styles.
This Grüner Veltliner from Ricochet was foot-stomped in the picking bins and left to sit on skins for a day, giving it some weight and character. It was also barrel-fermented and left to go through malolactic fermentation which gives it a nice hint of creaminess without any oak influence. This is a full-bodied white with good acidity and a bit of salinity which complements many different foods.
Marlo is a two-year-old purebred Yellow Labrador Retriever and she really wants you to play. Right now!
A Cellar 503 selection in March 2020, Winery Dogs Willamette Valley | Grüner Veltliner
