2023 assessment by the Willamette Valley Wineries Association & the Northwest Wine Report:  Return to Normal. We’ve had several unusual vintages recently, e.g., 2022 (hard freeze), 2021 (hot, hot hot) and 2020 (wildfire smoke). 2023 pleasantly showed us a recent, relative normalcy, albeit warm. Vineyard vigor, growth and ripening were strong in summer 2023, leading to an early harvest. Crop load yields were slightly smaller, with disease pressure very low except for late-held varieties, and general quality was very good to exceptional—and that's the "normal" we'd like to see.  "Oregon’s 2023 growing season was marked by a cool start, subsequent warm temperatures, a very dry summer, and, in many cases, a compressed harvest. Quality looks to be high. Some are positively giddy.”

Abbey Ridge is the oldest vineyard in the Cameron portfolio, located high in the Dundee Hills at elevations between 500 and 700 feet. The first vines were planted in 1976, and as some of the oldest in Oregon, they continue to produce some of Cameron’s finest wines. A younger block of Pinot Noir was established in 1990 on a hillside above the original vines. Known as Arley’s Leap, this block is named in honor of Bill and Julia’s beloved dog, Arley, whose legendary leap from a second-story balcony in Victoria—startled by a cat—remains family lore. In 1984, another hillside at Abbey Ridge was planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, forming the foundation for Cameron’s Dundee Hills cuvées, supplemented by fruit from other sites in the appellation. At the highest elevation, several acres of Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, and Auxerrois contribute to Cameron’s Italian-inspired white blends, Giovanni and Giuliano.

Abbey Ridge is farmed with only organic sprays. As a non-irrigated site, soil moisture is managed through a rotation of cover crops and clean-cultivated areas, with mowing heights adjusted relative to rainfall to optimize water retention. The old vines, with their exceptionally deep roots, are able to draw on subsoil moisture during the dry late-summer months. One of the highest vineyards in the Red Hills of Dundee, Abbey Ridge is typically harvested later than most sites—mid-October for Pinot Noir and mid-to-late October for the white varieties. This extended growing season yields fruit with naturally high acidity and wines of remarkable aging potential. Yields average 2.0–2.5 tons per acre (27–34 hl/hectare) for Pinot Noir and 2.0–3.0 tons per acre (27–40 hl/hectare) for the white varieties.

The Winery 
Cameron Winery, a small family operation founded by John Paul in 1984, is dedicated to crafting high-quality, hand-crafted, and sustainably-farmed libations for discerning individuals. Located in the hills above Dundee, Oregon, their journey began in a roofless warehouse in McMinnville and eventually led to the establishment of Clos Electrique, a dry-farmed vineyard that started with Pinot noir and Chardonnay but has since expanded to include Nebbiolo and a field blend of white Italian grapes. John Paul, the irrepressible owner and winemaker emeritus, transitioned from an academic background in Marine Biochemistry to the world of winemaking, driven by the desire to use his creative side and enjoy a sip of wine while working. With stints in Oregon, New Zealand, and California, he ultimately founded Cameron Winery, along with his wife Teri Wadsworth, and partners Bill and Julia Wayne, Marc Dochez, and Shawna Archibald. The winery's name pays homage to its location in Dundee and reflects the Paul family's Scottish Clan heritage.

At Cameron Winery, the team consists of experienced individuals, including winemaker Tom Sivilli, vineyard manager Phil London, and John's partner Teri, who brings a sense of humor to their operation. Additionally, Julian Paul is involved in label design and product development, while Tawny Paul plays an essential role in the winery's activities. The team is completed by their furry and feathered friends, including dogs, a cat, chickens, and bees. Cameron Winery is not only committed to producing exceptional wines but also to sustainable farming practices, with a growing focus on regenerative agriculture. Their unique approach, dedication to quality, and a touch of humor make them a distinctive and beloved presence in the world of winemaking.