January 3, 2014Elkton Oregon AVA becomes state's 17th appellationBy Janet EastmanIt took years for the new Elkton Oregon AVA — the state’s 17th American Viticultural Area — to be federally approved in February. “Everyone was on board,” says Michael Landt, a Pinot Noir producer who owns two vineyards and a winery in the new AVA. Time was needed, say experts, not only to prepare the AVA petition and its supporting documents, but to establish a growing history. Its distinctive maritime, temperate climate makes it suitable to grow cool varieties such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Baco Noir and Riesling. Jones was asked to help by Terry Brandborg, an Elkton grower and winemaker, and Landt is pleased Jones offered his expertise.