Proposed Ribbon Ridge Viticultural Area (2002R-215P)

Samenvatting

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau has received a petition proposing the establishment of the "Ribbon Ridge" viticultural area in northern Yamhill County, Oregon, between Newberg and Gaston. This proposed viticultural area, which measures approximately 1.75 miles in width and 3.5 miles in length, lies approximately 22 miles southwest of Portland, Oregon, and 40 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. As of 2002, at least 14 vineyards, totaling over 286 acres currently planted, plus 3 commercial wineries exist within the proposed boundaries of the Ribbon Ridge viticultural area. We believe the use of viticultural area names as appellations of origin in wine labeling and advertising helps consumers identify wines. It also allows wineries to better designate the specific grape-growing area in which their wine grapes were grown. We invite comments on this proposal.