I belong to many wine trade organizations including the Applegate Valley Vintners Association, the Rogue Valley Vintners, and the Oregon Winegrowers Association. I had a similarly long list when I worked in the Napa Valley. Each of these organizations are defined by a place.

Then there are the Rhône Rangers. The Rangers diverge from these place-based organizations as the Rhône Rangers are defined by the varieties they grow. To be a Rhône Ranger wine, 75% of the wine’s content must include one or more of the twenty-two traditional Rhône grape varieties as approved by the French government for the wines of the Côtes du Rhône, with Petite Sirah tacked on because of its early contributions in the American wine industry.

So the Rhône Rangers are not defined by a place, but by an ideal—a belief in the unique characteristics of these classic Southern French varieties as expressed in American vineyards. The members of the Rhône Rangers span the continent, not an AVA.

In this episode of the Wine Camp Podcast, we’re talking ranger to ranger with a panel all of whom have served as president of the organization. Joining us are Jason Hass from Tablas Creek in Paso Robles, Tony Quealy, with Thacher Winery in Paso Robles, Larry Schaffer of Tercero Winery in Santa Barbara, and me here at Troon Vineyard in Oregon’s Applegate Valley.

As you will find in the discussion, the Rhône Rangers as an organization are dedicated to the idea of mutually assured success. It does not matter if you are growing in California, Texas, Oregon, or Virginia; you’ll always find a helping hand and a willingness to share knowledge. The old saying that a rising tide lifts all boats perfectly describes the Rhône Rangers’ philosophy.

Please visit the Rhône Rangers website for information on upcoming tastings. With twenty-two varieties, DEI is alive and well at our tastings!