Comment 5: Stutz, Thomas (Radcliffe Cellars)

I have been a Viticulture and Winemaking professional since graduating from the UC Davis MS program in 1976. I first became aware of Elkton's uniquely desirable environment for cool climate grape growing in approximately 1977 from a climatological study of Oregon published in the ASEV Journal. I first visited the valley in 1978 and was immediately struck by the favorable landforms and site aspects. I pursued historical weather data which helped confirm my initial impressions. When two years later I mentioned my interest to Myron Redford of Amity Vineyards, Myron's immediate response was - "That's where Gewurtztraminer gets ripe". He went on to say that in his experience to date (ca. 1980) that Elkton was the only place in the state he'd seen that varietal truly ripen. I submit, that for 30+ years that some have known this region to be worthy of separate recognition. I have made wine from fruit within the proposed AVA several times from 1996 to 2009 and have the highest regard for their potential. The 16 year old Radcliffe Pinot Noir from the old Elkton Vineyards site drinks very well to this day (2012). The Umpqua Valley AVA encompasses many distinctive sub-valleys as the river winds in and out of canyons. Being the coldest portion, Elkton is arguably the most distinct of these regions. Others should become elucidated in the future to help consumers understand the diversity of the entire valley - instead of just lumping the preferred Pinot Noir, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon growing sites into one overarching AVA. This proposed AVA begins this path of clarification. I do own land in the proposed AVA and thereby stand to benefit from it's approval. However, my belief in the great potential of this area drove the purchase many years ago, not the possibility of a future AVA. I strongly support and respectfully urge approval of the proposed Elkton Oregon AVA. Tom Stutz Winemaker, La Rochelle Winery Proprietor Radcliffe Cellars