At Meadows Estate Vineyard & Winery, sustainability is more than a practice—it’s a long-term commitment to the land, the vines, and the generations to come.
As spring arrives in Oregon’s Umpqua Valley, the vineyard comes to life. Budbreak begins, cover crops flourish, and the foundation for the growing season takes shape—marking one of the most hopeful and critical moments in the vineyard cycle.
Set across 17 acres, our vineyard is shaped by diverse soils and a dynamic climate that allow both Rhône and Bordeaux varietals to thrive. With each season—especially in spring—we farm with intention, prioritizing soil health, water conservation, and thoughtful vineyard management to maintain balance in the ecosystem and reflect it in every bottle.
This approach is rooted in legacy. What began as MarshAnne Landing in 1996 has grown into Meadows Estate. Much of what I know about farming came from my grandparents and parents. My mother, especially, had a green thumb—she studied farming magazines and wasn’t afraid to experiment with new techniques. Her philosophy was simple: “If you take care of the land, it will take care of you,” says Dexter.
From the Vineyard
Spring is a season of renewal and precision. From nurturing new vine growth to managing cover crops that enrich the soil, every decision made now sets the tone for the months—and vintages—ahead.
“Our goal is simple: leave the land better than we found it. When the soil is healthy, the vines follow, and the wine tells that story,” says Dexter Meadows.
We believe great wine begins long before harvest. It starts with respect for the land, a commitment to thoughtful farming, and a vision that extends far beyond the present season.
Managing the Vineyard for Quality Yield
Early spring in the Umpqua Valley brings a full spectrum of green to life. Oak trees begin to leaf out, and lush grass carpets the landscape. Daytime temperatures can reach the mid-70s, while evenings remain cool enough for the occasional light frost. Recent rains leave behind puddles that slowly seep into the well-drained soils.
Clover blankets much of the vineyard floor, playing a critical role in soil health by naturally adding nitrogen to support early vine growth. We mow the clover to help release these nutrients back into the soil as it decomposes. Periodically, we also apply lime to raise soil pH, improving the vine’s ability to absorb key nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium.
As the vines awaken from winter dormancy, they are carefully pruned and rewired in preparation for budbreak—timed thoughtfully to avoid the risks of early frost, which can impact both yield and quality.
We proactively manage vineyard health through routine programs addressing mites and powdery mildew, while controlling grass growth to promote airflow throughout the vines. As temperatures rise, the canopy expands rapidly, requiring careful leaf thinning and, later, fruit thinning to ensure optimal ripening.
Every step is intentional—supporting vine health, fruit quality, and ultimately, the production of wines that truly reflect the land.
