2021 Helios
Estate Vineyard ∞ Chehalem Mountains AVA Seyval Blanc
64 cases produced. $40 | NEW RELEASE
The first and only planting of Seyval Blanc in the Willamette Valley (second in Oregon), Helios is named for Carl Nielsen’s “Helios Overture, Opus 18.” Grown in Bells Up’s vineyard, this hybrid wine grape is found mainly in the Midwest – our former home – and East Coast. Although unrelated to Sauvignon Blanc, Helios shares many similarities in flavor and texture.
TECHNICAL NOTESNOSE: Quince jam, citrus, oyster shell, cured meats, aged Manchego cheese, citrus blossom, fresh earth.
PALATE: Zingy and bright with mid-palate creaminess, well balanced acid and a long finish. Hints of tropical fruits, grapefruit, pineapple, and salinity.
Owen Bargreen’s Review: Seyval Blanc might be one of the most unknown varieties grown in Oregon as Bells Up planted these estate vines back in spring 2015. Nutty and earthy tones combine aromatically with shades of gooseberry. The palate is finesse-driven and nicely textured, as this finishes very long with damp earth and bright melon and citrus fruits. Drink 2022-2026 – 91
Kathleen Willcox’s Review: Made from the first planting of Seyval Blanc in the Willamette Valley, this hybrid has so much potential across the country, both in terms of hardiness and pure delight. This version is a sharp, shimmering knife, green apples and lemons, hay, flint, pineapple.
AdVINEtures’ Review: This wine is made from the aromatic grape variety Seyval Blanc. This reminded us of a Sauvignon Blanc with its grapefruit flavours or perhaps a Grüner Veltliner with its body and high acid combination. Hints of lemon/lime infuse the aromatic profile. Flavours of pear and golden delicious apple gain added complexity from the mineral streak on the finish. Crisp and refreshing. Very Good+
