J.C. Somers Vintner
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Country of Origin: USA
Location: Dundee Hills
People: Jay Somers & Ronda Newell-Somers, Owners | Jay Somers, Winemaker
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J.C. Somers Vintner is a collaboration between Jay Christopher Somers and his longtime partner and wife, Ronda Newell-Somers and consists of a collection of vibrant wines that showcase the diversity and richness of the Willamette Valley. From elegant and refined Pinot Noir to crisp and mineral Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, each wine is a celebration of the unique terroir that makes the Willamette Valley region so special.
Jay has been crafting wine in the Willamette Valley for over 30 years. After founding the J. Christopher brand in 1996, following his work with mentor John Paul of Cameron Winery and Adelsheim, he has now returned to his roots with J.C. Somers Vintner. The label features a new moon, symbolizing a new phase in his winemaking journey. At J.C. Somers, the focus is on producing hand-crafted small lot wines that emphasize focus, length, and balance.
Jay and Ronda are members of The Deep Roots Coalition (DRC), an advocacy group promoting wine sourced exclusively from non-irrigated vineyards. The wineries in this group share a vision for sustainable viticulture, winemaking, and the long-term viability of Oregon wine. They believe that dry farming is essential, as non-irrigated vines work harder to produce fruit that truly reflects the terroir. The Somers have spent 30 years identifying exceptional vineyard sites that consistently yield high-quality wines. As one of the original pioneers of Oregon wine, they have cultivated relationships with top-tier growers in the region. They source grapes from some of the finest vineyards, including Abbey Ridge (collaborating since 1993), Croft Vineyard (partnering since 1999), and La Colina, often referred to as Jay's “secret sauce.”
The philosophy at J.C. Somers is to produce wines in an Old World style, emphasizing focus, length, and balance. As Jay puts it, “We do not make fruit bombs. We want wines that have a fine balance of fruit, acidity, and texture. We want wines that give you more than just a big midpalate blast—wines that are complete.” Jay firmly believes in patient winemaking, allowing the wines to develop naturally with minimal intervention. Drawing inspiration from Old World wines, he applies these principles to the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley.
More About Jay Christopher Somers: Owner and native Oregonian Jay Somers has been crafting wine in the Willamette Valley for over 30 years. With experience gained from working alongside esteemed winemakers like his mentor John Paul of Cameron Winery, and time spent at Adelsheim and Dry River in New Zealand, Jay’s wines are hand-crafted in small batches and sourced from some of the finest vineyards in the Willamette Valley. When not making wine, Jay is often found playing guitar and composing new music for his band Portland Cement.
More About Ronda Newell-Somers: Ronda has been by Jay’s side since 1991 and a crucial part of the winemaking team since 1996. Beyond her roles in marketing and sales, she has been actively involved in harvest and cellar work from the start. Her moral support and talent for crafting the perfect cocktail at just the right moment are invaluable. Ronda is a devoted fan of Nebbiolo, Champagne, and the wines of Burgundy. In addition to her passion for wine, she has a keen interest in fashion and, like Jay, is an avid music enthusiast.
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