Comment 4: Sutton, Nancy

The proposed Elkton Oregon AVA includes a unique geographical location along the Umpqa River, associated topography with generally steep, elevated boundary lines, and a filtered marine cooling effect. The small community of Elkton is approximately 37 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, and along the Umpqua River that acts as a funnel to draw inland a cooling marine influence. The geographical focal point of Elkton is the river with surrounding terraces that soon give way to steep, higher elevations. These distinguishing features combine to create a unique grape-growing region conducive to smaller vineyards growing cool climate grapes that is worthy of approval as an AVA. As a native Oregonian and a former resident of the Oregon Coast, I have passed through Elkton numerous times between inland Roseburg and coastal Reedsport. The differences in summer air temperatures between the ever-so-warm Roseburg, pleasantly-moderated Elkton, and cool Reedsport, are notable. The topography of the Elkton area at first makes one wonder just where vineyards could thrive in this river community. Alas, the terraces that lie between the river and the encroaching forested higher elevations provide a perfect setting for thriving viticulture. Elkton is truly a lovely boutique grape-growing area, uniquely different from the larger AVAs of northern Oregon. Establishment of the proposed Elkton Oregon AVA is richly deserved by the wine-drinking public and the Elkton grape-growers.