Introduction
Big Table Farms is a renowned winery and farm located in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable farming, organic practices, and high-quality, small-batch wines. Founded by Brian Marcy and Clare Carver, this boutique winery has gained a loyal following for its handcrafted Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals.
In this article, we’ll explore:
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The history and philosophy behind Big Table Farms
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Their sustainable and organic farming practices
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The unique wines they produce
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Visitor experiences at the farm
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Why Big Table Farms stands out in the wine industry
The Story of Big Table Farms
Founders: Brian Marcy and Clare Carver
Big Table Farms was established in 2006 by husband-and-wife duo Brian Marcy and Clare Carver. Brian, a seasoned winemaker with experience at prestigious Napa Valley wineries, and Clare, an artist and farmer, combined their passions to create a winery that emphasizes authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
The name “Big Table Farms” reflects their vision of bringing people together around a shared table, celebrating good food, wine, and community.
Location: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Nestled in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Big Table Farms benefits from the region’s ideal climate for cool-climate grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The area’s volcanic soils and moderate temperatures contribute to the distinctive character of their wines.
Sustainable and Organic Farming Practices
Commitment to Organic Viticulture
Big Table Farms follows organic farming principles, avoiding synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Instead, they use natural methods to maintain soil health and vine vitality.
Biodynamic Farming Techniques
In addition to organic practices, they incorporate biodynamic farming—a holistic approach that treats the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. This includes:
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Using compost and natural fertilizers
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Planting cover crops to enhance biodiversity
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Aligning farming activities with lunar cycles
Regenerative Agriculture
Big Table Farms goes beyond sustainability by focusing on regenerative agriculture—practices that restore soil health, sequester carbon, and improve water retention. Their farming methods ensure long-term environmental benefits while producing high-quality grapes.
The Wines of Big Table Farms
Handcrafted, Small-Batch Production
Big Table Farms produces limited quantities of wine, allowing for meticulous attention to detail. Each bottle reflects the unique terroir of their vineyards.
Signature Wines
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Pinot Noir – Their flagship wine, known for its elegance, bright acidity, and complex flavors of red fruit and earth.
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Chardonnay – A balanced, vibrant white wine with notes of citrus, apple, and minerality.
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Rosé – A refreshing, dry rosé made from Pinot Noir grapes.
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Syrah & Other Varietals – Occasionally, they produce small batches of Syrah and experimental blends.
Minimal Intervention Winemaking
Brian Marcy’s winemaking philosophy focuses on minimal intervention:
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Native yeast fermentations
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Gentle handling of grapes
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Aging in neutral oak to preserve pure fruit expression
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Visiting Big Table Farms
Tasting Room Experience
While Big Table Farms does not have a traditional tasting room, they offer private tastings and farm tours by appointment. Visitors can enjoy:
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Wine tastings in a rustic, intimate setting
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A chance to meet the winemakers
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Views of the vineyards and farm animals
Farm-to-Table Philosophy
Beyond wine, Big Table Farms raises livestock (pigs, chickens, and sheep) and grows organic produce. Their farm-to-table approach ensures that everything they produce aligns with their sustainability values.
Why Big Table Farms Stands Out
Authenticity & Transparency
Every bottle tells a story—from the hand-drawn labels by Clare Carver to the detailed winemaking notes. Their transparency about farming and production builds trust with consumers.
Critical Acclaim
Big Table Farms has received praise from wine critics and enthusiasts alike, with high ratings from publications like Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast.
Community & Collaboration
They collaborate with local farmers, artists, and chefs, fostering a sense of community and supporting Oregon’s agricultural economy.
Final Thoughts
Big Table Farms is more than just a winery—it’s a testament to sustainable farming, craftsmanship, and the power of a shared table. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, big farm sustainability advocate, or someone who appreciates authentic stories, Big Table Farms offers a unique and inspiring experience.
