In Memorium: David Lett, Oregon Wine PIoneer

It is with sadness that I report the passing of David Lett, founder of Eyrie Vineyards and pioneer Oregon winemaker. I believe it was around 1976 that a small intrepid group of iconoclasts and mavericks started trying to grow grapes and make wine in Oregon. An irascible independent spirit, David experimented until he got it right. Although some may have found him curmudgeonly, his fierce determination and single-mindedness of purpose led to some of the first Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc in the state. Today, there are over 350 wineries, over 700 vineyards and Oregon Pinot Noir is world famous. Eyrie is now in the hands of David's very able winemaking son, Jason, who will carry on the tradition of experimentation begun by his father. David was the living incarnation of the best of American freethinking and stubborn determination. Yes, he could. And he did! Thank you, David. You will be fondly remembered.