“The past 25 years have been quite an adventure, I feel like we’re pretty blessed.” - Jolee Wallace, Del Rio Owner
Realizing they had too many grapes, Jolee says she had “no idea how much it would grow and how big they would become.” In 2004, they constructed a winery in the original barn. Del Rio increased wine production in a new building. In 2019, they bought out partner Traynham and became sole owners of the largest winery in Southern Oregon, Rob acknowledges, “by quite a bit. There’s a lot going on.” Del Rio currently has 550 vineyard acres planted with13 grape varietals, with processing capacity of roughly 850,000 gallons. Recently, they have further renovated the hotel building, adding upstairs offices and a cozy meeting room in the second story. Also new: an indoor sitting area behind the tasting room for Oregon rainy days. The large grassy lawn attracts guests lounging with friends, sipping wine and listening to music on long, summer days. Del Rio Vineyards has a country farm ambiance, relaxing and refreshing. Time spent there resembles a mini-vacation. “The past 25 years have been quite an adventure,” Jolee relates. “I feel like we’re pretty blessed.” But, she continues, “there’s still substantial room for growth and we are proud to be growing in the Rogue Valley”. n
Started in 2016 by owner Jolee Wallace, the u-pick zinnia field is situated at the base of Del Rio Vineyard Estate. Photo provided.
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June 2023 | The Business Review
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