Foris Vineyards Winery is an American vineyard located in the Cave Junction, Oregon area. Established in 1986, Foris is known for their Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Merlot and had its 2006 Pinot Blanc voted "Best of Show" at the World of Wine Festival near Gold Hill, Oregon. They also produce Foris Cave Bear Red, the sale of which is used to support the Oregon Caves Chateau renovation.[1]
Foris was founded by Ted Gerber, who fell in love with the Illinois Valley when visiting friends there in 1969. In 1971, he began studying Oregon's climate over the past 30 years and decided that the weather and soil in Oregon could grow quality grapes. He purchased 15 acres (61,000 m2) near the former gold mining town of Holland and added 80 acres (320,000 m2) more in 1975 in what is now the site of Gerber Ranch and Foris Winery. The early years saw failed crops and the wrong grapes planted in the wrong areas. Changes in the wine market also forced various adjustments over the years. By 2006, Foris' crops had proved that the Illinois Valley is a viable place to grow grapes.[2]
As of 2007, Foris Winery produced 48,000 cases of wine, making it the 14th-largest bonded winery in Oregon.[3]