Gilstrap Brothers Today

Brothers Warren and Ted Gilstrap head up today's production and marketing efforts at our winery in scenic Cove, Oregon. Wine tasting and tours are available seasonally and by appointment. Gilstrap Brothers has now become a wedding destination with our wedding gazebo that overlooks the beautiful Grande Ronde Valley. Our reception facility sits just above our vineyard. Enjoy the ambiance!

Every winemaker's goal is to consistently make excellent wine and to maintain consistency from one vintage year to the next. As you sample our wines, you will notice subtle differences from one vintage year to the next. Some of this is intentional as is the case with different percentages used during blending, or with different selections of oak used for barrel aging. Some vintage years are simply unique due to the elements that affect the grapes on their maturity towards harvest. At Gilstrap Brothers, our goal will always be to produce exceptional wines and create a unique and personable wine tasting experience for you to enjoy. We look forward to your visit!

Southwestern Style White Sangria

Mix in tall pitcher:
1 Bottle of Gilstrap Brothers 2B10 White Merlot
6 oz. seltzer water or club soda
6 oz. triple sec*
½ green apple chopped medium fine
1 lime chopped medium fine
*a light colored brandy can be substituted (or even added) for the triple sec.

Keep cool in pitcher without ice
Serve on the rocks in tall glass of choice and garnish with slice of orange.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper (finely chopped).
This really balances out the flavors in this delightful White Sangria

Enjoy!

2010-01-04 23:54:04

Jumping the Seasons

I believe it was in a college meteorology class that I learned that the highest seasonal temperatures we experience, lag by a period of time the day that the sun is highest overhead, resulting in the longest day, and that this lag is the result of ocean effect. The summer solstice, which occurs on June 21st, marks the longest day of the year.  Correspondingly, the shortest day of the year for us in the northern hemisphere occurs on December 21st, with the sun being the furthest south. Due to ocean effect, the hottest day of the year occurs sometime in August, while the coldest day of the year lags considerably the winter solstice of December 21st.
Being someone who grew up in the Midwest and lived under a perpetual, overcast gray sky, it is no wonder that once having experienced the southwestern United States, I have come to love clear blue skies and the radiant warmth of the sun. Okay, if that makes me a desert rat, fine. I just like being warm. Once becoming accustomed to a warm climate, cold weather is now intolerable for me. 
While I enjoy the Holiday Season, it is mostly for a different reason than for a lot of people.  I simply find myself looking forward to longer days and warmer temperatures. In fact, I get excited about it.  December 22 may be just a few days before Christmas, but to me, it's the day that everything starts getting better. I have also come to realize that a lot of people, me included, have a tendency to jump seasons.  By that I mean that we just can't wait to get the boat in the water, or to be the first one down the ski slope. The water temperature in late April and early May is a lot colder than it is in late September but most people have long tired of boating by the time fall weather sets in. I recall sunny days in February while in college that I would be outside all day, soaking up the sun with the promise of warm temperatures to come. By mid summer, I was looking forward to fall weather and then when fall would roll around, I was getting ready for skiing when I could have been enjoying the splendor of autumn.
As the Holidays approach with all the many activities occurring that we all enjoy so much, from the office Christmas party through Christmas itself, and then that wonderful week of waiting for New Year's Day, I have found myself wanting to jump the season again.  I just can't wait to get the tree down and the holiday decorations put away.  For me, it's all about moving forward to the new year.
As I have gotten older and have felt the need to make each day count, I have tried to slow myself down and live each day for what it has to offer.  It follows then that I should try to enjoy each season and wait patiently for the next.  As 2009 winds down, I am enjoying the company of family and friends. The new year will be here soon enough.
It is with these thoughts in mind that I'd like to wish everyone a safe and fun-filled Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year.  See you out on the lake...in March!!
Ted Gilstrap

2010-01-04 23:55:06

Rescue Dog Release - UPDATE

September 26, 2009 was the official release of Rescue Dog Red Wine...a blend of our premium, award-winning wines. Our release event, held at our eastern Oregon winery was a great success, with many wine enthusiasts in attendance. A festive atmosphere prevailed throughout the day, with music from local artists and wonderful food samplings to accompany the wine tasting. Artwork, on display from local artists gave our many winery visitors an opportunity to view and shop for an assortment of handmade wares from local artisans.

One aspect of our Rescue Dog Red Wine endeavor, included the involvement of our local Blue Mountain Humane Society and Hearts United for Animals, a national no-kill shelter and animal sanctuary. Donations were collected for both organizations at the event and sales of our Rescue Dog Red Wine will provide ongoing donations to Hearts United for Animals.

We would like to thank the many people who attended our release party and those who have continued to support our Rescue Dog cause with their purchase of our Rescue Dog Red Wine.



Warren and Ted Gilstrap

2010-01-04 23:56:37