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Wednesday, October 15, 2008
A Tribute to Papa Pinot
Here at Imbibe, we were all saddened to hear of the recent loss of David Lett, pioneer of Oregon winemaking and founder of Eyrie Vineyards. Lett, 69 years old, died at home in Dundee, Oregon, last Thursday. Known to many as “Papa Pinot,” Lett arrived in the Willamette Valley in 1965 with 3,000 vine clippings and a vision. Over the years, his brilliant and graceful Pinot Noirs would convert even the most stubborn critics, while his drive and dedication to Willamette Valley winemaking would become a model followed by many Pacific Northwest wine growers. Lett leaves behind a legacy of Oregon winemaking and a legion of friends. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones. He will truly be missed.
As I am reading tributes elsewhere, I realize I didn't know enough about David Lett while he was alive. I'm glad to have the opportunity to learn more about him now.
ReplyDeleteHaving been awakened this August to the wonders of pinot noir and the meaning of terroir, I was pleasantly surprised to have heard this MPR interview with Lett in September:
ReplyDeletehttp://tinyurl.com/4mglpt
I was sad to learn of his passing.