RoxyAnn Winery Review
Address: 3285 Hillcrest Rd. Medford,Oregon 97504.
Phone Number: 541-776-2315
Tasting Hours: Mon-Thurs: 12:00-7:00, Fri: 11:00-9:00, Sat-Sun 11:00-7:00
Region: Southern Oregon AVA, Rogue Valley AVA, Oregon
Reviewer: Liesa Morrow-Bratcher
Review Date: 1/18/2014
Reviewer: Liesa Morrow-Bratcher
Rating: 4
The Review
Living in Southern Oregon wine country definitely has its advantages. With many excellent wineries in the region, the biggest decision is which one to visit.
After much deliberation, my husband and I decided to visit RoxyAnn Winery. The winery is located in Medford, Oregon, and the certified sustainable vineyard consists of 70 acres of mostly Bordeaux and Rhone style grapes at the base of Roxy Ann Peak. As an added bonus, the winery is adjacent to Hillcrest Orchard, a pear and apple orchard that has been operated by the Parsons family for over 100 years. RoxyAnn Winery was founded in 2002 by Jack Day, the grandson of Reginald Parsons (founder of the orchard). The winemaker, John Quinones, has been with the winery since 2008.
The tasting room is housed in a building that was previously used as the horse stable and honor barn for the orchard. It is a beautiful 100 year old barn, and you can still purchase fruit right outside the front door. The barn has been updated and includes a large bar with tables, a state of the art kitchen and temperature-controlled storage room, and a gift shop. The room matches the staff perfectly…both are bright and cheerful!
The staff, who provided us a warm and friendly greeting as we entered, is knowledgeable about the wines and also about the products they carry in their gift shop. We spoke with George in the tasting room, and he gave us great information about the wines, the winemaker, and the history of the winery; he has been with RoxyAnn for over 8 years. Wine tasting is $5 for 5 wines and food and other beverages are available.
I had the pleasure of tasting the 2011 RoxyAnn Viognier, 2010 RoxyAnn Claret, 2009 RoxyAnn Tempranillo, and a 2009 RoxyAnn Cabernet Sauvignon. These are all estate-grown wines.
The Whites
The 2011 Viognier ($20) is nothing short of luscious. I particularly noticed the pear flavors and enjoyed the creamy-smooth finish.
The Reds
The 2010 Claret ($26) was replacing their sold out, award-winning 2009 Claret in their tasting line up. The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere and has flavors of cherry, plum and currants. It has a nice oak finish, but is not too overbearing.
Next was the 2009 Tempranillo ($26). In addition to 77% Tempranillo, the wine contains 12% Syrah and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Tempranillo adds bright cherry notes, and the Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon give the wine some heft with darker plum and blackberry flavors.
Last was the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($32). This was my favorite, as I have a pension toward big reds. With its dark fruit, oak, and spice flavors (18 months in 40% new French and American Oak), this wine has a smooth and pleasing finish.
RoxyAnn is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon or evening. The winery also offers music on Friday nights and can host private parties and functions.
If you find yourself in the Rogue Valley, Roxy Ann Winery should be on your list of wineries to visit. Between the beautiful historic property and the quality wines, you are sure to have a memorable experience.