After driving through what appeared to be fairly rural country of Carlton Oregon on a two lane highway, two police squad cars were stopped in the middle of the road. The police were waving cars one by one to pass, until bus #8 approached. The police man stood in the middle of the road with his hand held out. The bus stopped, the door opened, and on jumps a uniformed officer.

Ahi tuna sashimi with flavorful sauces and Alberino were a warm welcome compared to cold hand-cuffs.

The group was then guided to the vineyards under an old oak tree where fresh breads, cheese, and Tempranillo were offered. One could not help but notice such unusual tall growing vines and with an abnormal contour in the vineyards. When I inquired the winemaker about the vines, he shared that they were grown this tall style intentionally to prevent sheep from disturbing the fruit.

He then went on to say, "notice no sheep! They are like acrobats," and can still get to the fruit. He also went on to share the vines on the right are the result of deer getting in the vineyard. My first thought was, I wonder how well his Tempranillo would pair with venison......

This single stop with soil insights was the holy grail that many imbibers were seeking on this Willamette Valley wine tour, myself included. I've heard others are still on the search.  

Then of course it followed by drinking from three grails of a Pinot Noir vertical and greater insights from Ken. Before leaving, one could not help but notice the most unusual smoking BBQ of cedar planked salmon. We later ate this salmon which to date is the single best salmon I've ever eaten, (better than fresh caught Alaskian King, Coho, Copper River, amongst many others).

The group was then lead down what appeared to be the main street of Carlton. I shared with others my analogy of this amazing place.

Carlton is my humble opinion is like Los Olivos (historic Santa Barbara wine region where the movie Andy Griffith was filmed) meets rural Michigan. The wine tasting rooms were a blast from the past, nesseled in charming historic buildings, while still maintaining a very small town feel. The people were absolutly amazing in their hospitable nature and freindliness. We entered into a wine bar that seemed to hold the remainder of the towns wine industry and they gave us an amazing welcome.

There were many of the local wineries that had come to this location to pour for us all while we ate a spectacular meal. I was truley honored and humbled to have so many of the locals approach our tables and ask if we needed anything with such a happy and genuine interest. This trip to Carlton-Yamhill was an absolute highlight I'd highly suggest to anyone looking for a great wine trip.  

Much gratitude to our awesome guide Carl Giavanti (Pictured above) (carlgiavanticonsulting.com), Carlo & Julian, Ken Wright, the people of Carlton, Horse Radish, and all involved in this well thought out and fun day in wine country.

When I think of America, Chevy truck commercials, or a John Mellencamp music video, Carlton would fit the bill in my estimation for the heartland. Real people producing real wine and serious food. They welcomed us with open (not fire) arms and I'm confident they do with all travelrs.  

(Pictured above- left to right Kathy Oriet Carlton Mayor, Chad Olsen City Manager, and Kevin Martinez Chief of Police, thanks so much to you all!)