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Brooks Wine

Willamette Valley, US

Brooks Wine is the vision and legacy of one man – Jimi Brooks. In 1989, this Oregon native, fresh out of college, set off to travel the world. He arrived in France and, through family contacts, worked a harvest for a domain in Beaujolais. He enjoyed it so much that he returned for several years afterwards. Inspired by this connection and the burgeoning biodynamic viticulture movement he witnessed in Europe, Jimi became determined to make wine the same way back home in Oregon.

Brooks Wine was founded in 1998 in Willamette Valley, the heart of Oregon's wine country. It was his dream to make world-class, expressive Pinot Noir and Riesling on the volcanic soils of the Eola-Amity Hills sub-region, where the high altitudes and cooling ocean breezes create the ideal conditions for these varieties. And, most importantly, he would make them while staying true to his philosophy of holistic farming and winemaking. The estate was certified biodynamic in 2002. Tragically, in 2004 aged just 38, Jimi died unexpectedly. He left the estate to his son Pascal, who was just a child. In the meantime, his sister Janie and longtime friend and winemaker Chris kept his dream alive. Pascal, Janie and Chirs remain at the heart of the winery continuing Jimi's legacy. Brooks Wines' commitment to the environment is particularly strong. As well as being biodynamically certified by Demeter, the winery is B Corp certified, partners with Ecologi to plant trees worldwide, and is a member of 1% for the planet – probably the only winery in the world aligned with all four. Through its biodynamic farming, it commits to enhancing and strengthening biodiversity in its vineyards and low-intervention winemaking in the winery. Via its B Corp commitments, the winery has made great strides to further the welfare of its employees and improve its recycling and overall sustainability programmes. The winery gives 1% of its annual revenue towards collective fundraising to protect the future of the planet. From this, it has also formed a fundraising partnership of its own with Kiss the Ground which supports regenerative agriculture.

You too can see and be a part of the difference ethical farming brings with your visit to Brooks Wine. The winery offers a selection of unique, small-group experiences that delve into nature, viticulture and learning about wine whether you're a curious novice or a seasoned amateur. Or simply drop by for a glass (or two) in the tasting room or enjoy the views from the patio and upstairs deck. Above all, Brooks Wine is the ideal place to experience the best of Oregon hospitality.

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