02/12/2026
RAM Cellars, Almost Red Dixon Vineyard Columbia Valley (OR) (VIV Label) (2023)
I LOVE THIS WINE. Unlike a rosé that tends to be made from red grapes that are removed from their skins early, this "Almost Red" is actually equal parts red (Syrah/Counoise) and white (Marsanne) grapes blended together. The result is a bold, refreshing, sophisticated combination that doesn't take itself too seriously. Perfect for a sunny day, served slightly chilled, this wine leaves you thirsty for more with every sip.
I have yet to meet a RAM Cellars wine I don't love, to be honest. Moreover, I'm a huge fan of the winemaker herself and the story of her work both in and beyond the bottle.
"In 2018, Vivianne (winemaker) made the decision that saved her life and came out as a transgender woman. In the spring of 2019, she launched the first wines under a new label, dubbed “VIV.” VIV label wines raise money for organizations that provide support to q***r and transgender people through a $3 donation for the sale of every bottle.
Although the name of this label is the shorthand of our winemaker’s full first name, it was actually chosen because “viv” is the French root word that means “to live, to be alive.” As Viv will tell you, making the choice to come into the light and live fully as herself meant that she, too, gets to live, and be alive, for a long time to come. With that extra life comes extra responsibility to do good, meaningful things for members of communities she is a part of, which led to the birth of the new label. Partners whom the Viv label has raised money for include the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (in support of their Name Change Project), Portland’s Q Center, and most recently the Trans Lifeline!" - RAM Cellars website
Follow with us! 🥂 Another huge thank you to of for letting me snag the last bottles she had of this fabulous concoction. Not going to lie, I've been kind-of keeping it a secret for myself. Until now, obviously.