Judy Jordan’s Dream is Fulfilled at Geodesy, Where Wine has a Purpose

As soon as Judy Jordan stated that the motto at Geodesy Wine is “Wine with a Purpose,” I was hooked. It’s one thing to wax poetic about the aromas, flavors and structure of a brilliant Cabernet or a special wine from a beloved region, but it’s another to talk about the characteristics of a wine that’s bigger than what’s in the bottle. During a virtual tasting with Judy and members of her team at Geodesy Wine, I learned just what that “bigger” means.

Judy Jordan, a Stanford University graduate and geologist, is an iconic figure in the wine industry of which she has more than 25 years of experience. She founded J Vineyards & Winery in 1987 and sold it in 2015 with subsequent plans to include giving back to the community and continuing “the legacy of values established and shared with her children.” Now, Geodesy Wine is a platform upon which Judy’s dedication to social change achieved through philanthropy, investments, and appropriate business strategies moves forward.

Premium, limited production wines are offered with 100% of the profits supporting the WG Edge (Women Gaining an Edge) program that began in 2019. Perfectly stated, “Geodesy and WG Edge spring from the same roots: gratitude for our land and the dedication for our farmers and ranchers.”

Aimed at supporting the region’s agricultural workforce of young women, this local leadership development program reflects Judy Jordan’s mantra that “it takes a village to help open doors.” To that end, the program introduces young women to an inspiring network of educators and leaders of all ages and from all walks of life. During these challenging times, resilience, self-confidence, and determination are crucial and a goal of the program is to foster those qualities. When we spoke, nine young women were in the program and are expected to “pay it forward and help more women in the future.” About the name? “Geodesy” is derived from Judy’s passion for geology (geo) and the girls’ odyssey (desy).

During our conversation, the group learned that all Geodesy wines are from “site-specific, precision-farmed, hand selected estate vineyards.” Thanks to her acumen in geology and soil science, Judy began her quest for sites in 2015. She and the team acquired vineyards in Napa Valley, Eola-Amity Hills and Chehalem Mountains in Oregon, and the Petaluma Gap in Sonoma County. Judy explained that “each vineyard reminds me of the girls in the WG Edge program. Each is different in her own way.” Currently, production of all Geodesy wines is less than 10,000 cases. (For detailed information about each of the vineyards, click here.)

Our first tasting was 2018 Eola Springs Vineyard Chardonnay ($75), an expressive, balanced wine of grapes grown on vines planted in 1972. Winemaker Megan Baccitich explained that she wants “wines to be fresh, first and foremost” and this choice delivered. Wafting from the glass were enticing aromas of a summer breeze, lemon, pears, ripe citrus and the slightest hint of oak. Round and creamy, notes of spice, pears, vanilla, mint, brioche and crème brulee reminded more than a few of us of a Grand Cru from Bourgogne. Structured with vibrant acidity, the Chardonnay was aged for 14 months in French oak.

2018 Chehalem Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir ($80) reflected the exciting and challenging terroir in Oregon. Judy explained that she wanted to “push out of her comfort zone” and be challenged by elements that include the Van Duzer winds, volcanic soils, sedimentation from alluvial fans, techtonics and effects of the Missoula floods. Fresh, ever so balanced and energetic, aromas of wet moss, juicy raspberries and sweet herbs were a lush entry. On the palate, I noted dried cranberries, pomegranate and baking spice threaded with integrated tannins and natural acidity.

Judy stated that the Sage Ridge Vineyard “has taken us to our knees! It’s the most challenging, brilliant vineyard to work with. We have to have a customized approach here and complete dedication.”  2017 Sage Ridge Vineyard Red Wine ($175) from Napa Valley proved that the team’s commitment to the land produces quality results. Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon (with other Bordeaux varietals in the blend), I discovered intense notes of Earl Grey tea, a posy of violets, and lush red fruit on the nose. The broad palate was equally so. Crushed blueberries, dark chocolate, cassis, and flint were framed with soft tannins and generous acidity. The finish lingered.

  Judy Jordan is fulfilling her dream to empower young women in the agriculture community. Thanks to Geodesy “wines with a purpose,” these young women are able to realize their dreams, too.

Cheers ~ Cindy

For more Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” click here. 

 

.