When Calvin Scott Henry III (Scott) and his family planted their first grapevines in the Umpqua Valleyin 1972, he had no idea that his name would one day be recognized around the world. He did, however, have a strong hunch that his 12-acre vineyard of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer would produce grapes of exceptional quality. In 1980, the first wines from Henry Estate Winery proved him right.
Born and raised in Umpqua, Scott had spent 13 years as an aeronautical engineer in California prior to starting the winery. Always striving for perfection, he designed a trellis system to increase fruiting via a split canopy. Today, the Scott Henry Trellis system is used worldwide in regions such as South Africa, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. In 2012, Scott was inducted into Oregon State University’s Engineering Hall of Fame, and in June 2015, he was honored for his vital role in founding the Southern Oregon Wine Institute (SOWI). Established in 2008 at Umpqua Community College, SOWI is a state-of-the-art viticulture and enology program complete with the Scott Henry Vineyard, named in the Henry Estate owner’s honor.
Through the years, wine lovers have shown their appreciation for Henry Estate wines as well. Annual production has grown to 10,000 cases, 75 percent of which is handcrafted from estate-grown grapes. Robust plantings of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Müller Thurgau are mixed with varietal experiments in the vineyards that now surround the winery.
Although Scott’s contributions to the wine industry are what attract some visitors to the tasting room, many more visit because of the wines. The impressive portfolio has something for every palate, including an aromatic Pinot Gris, a round, rich White Riesling, several Pinot Noirs, and a light-bodied Müller Thurgau. Tasting room guests also appreciate the friendly and hospitable staff. In fact, it’s not unusual to run into Scott himself, as he often pops in from the vineyard to say hello.
For more information, visit henryestate.com