The AVA

The McMinnville AVA, nestled within the broader Willamette Valley AVA, lies in the Coast Range foothills just west of McMinnville, about 40 miles (65 km) southwest of Portland. A defining geological feature of this area is the Nestucca Formation, a 2,000-foot (610 m) thick bedrock layer extending from McMinnville to the slopes of the Coast Range. This formation, comprising weathered sedimentary and volcanic soil overlying marine bedrock, influences the region's groundwater composition. As a result, vines must work harder to thrive, yielding fruit with greater complexity.

Within McMinnville, the Hyland vineyard stands out for its remarkable uniformity. While the foothills of Oregon's Coast Range typically display diverse soil compositions, Hyland is characterized solely by volcanic soil. Its elevation, sheltered location, and positioning between two valleys have shielded it from many geological disruptions, creating a unique environment. This consistency allows for an ideal interaction between the vines, their aspect, and the local climate.

Compared to surrounding areas, McMinnville is generally cooler and drier, with vineyards reaching elevations of up to 1,000 feet (305 m) that are naturally resistant to frost. Vineyards on south-facing slopes benefit from the cooling breezes of the Van Duzer Corridor, a gap in the Coast Range that funnels cool Pacific air into the region. These winds lower evening temperatures, helping the grapes maintain their acidity as they ripen.