May is Oregon Wine Month, a time to celebrate and appreciate the quality and diversity of wines coming from the Beaver State. Since 2012, this month-long event has been organized by the Oregon Wine Board, a state agency that supports the growth and promotion of the Oregon wine industry. This is the third year that RNDC has celebrated Oregon Wine Month, and we couldn’t be more excited to highlight some of our amazing partners!
Oregon has a long history of winemaking, dating back to the 1840s when pioneers planted the first grapevines in the Willamette Valley. Today, Oregon is home to over 800 wineries, spread across several distinct wine growing regions. Some of the AVAs in which we get our amazing Oregon wine from include:
Willamette Valley: Known for its cool climate and volcanic soils, the Willamette Valley produces world-class Pinot Noir, as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and other varietals. The valley stretches from Portland in the north to Eugene in the south, and is divided into several sub-appellations, such as Dundee Hills, Yamhill-Carlton and Eola-Amity Hills.
Southern Oregon: Located in the warmer and drier part of the state, Southern Oregon is a diverse region that grows a wide range of grapes, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah to Tempranillo and Malbec. The main sub-appellations are Rogue Valley, Applegate Valley and Umpqua Valley.
Columbia Gorge: Straddling the border between Oregon and Washington, the Columbia Gorge AVA is a narrow and scenic corridor that features steep cliffs, waterfalls and stunning views of the Columbia River. The region is known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other cool-climate varietals.
Eastern Oregon: Comprising several smaller AVAs, such as the Snake River Valley and the Walla Walla Valley, Eastern Oregon is a high-desert region that is gaining recognition for its unique terroir and experimental winemaking. The region is best known for its red wines, such as Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Tempranillo.
So why is it important to celebrate Oregon wine during this month? For one, Oregon has a reputation for producing high-quality, small-batch wines that reflect the local climate, soil and culture. Many of these wines are made by family-owned and operated wineries, which adds to their authenticity and charm. Moreover, Oregon wine is a major economic driver for the state, generating billions of dollars in revenue and wages. Not to mention the thousands of jobs it provides! The economic impact of the Oregon wine industry is as robust as the wines.
This year, there are more reasons than ever to pick up a glass (or bottle) of Oregon wine. Reasons such as our charity partner Salud! As part of this collaboration, a percentage of sales will be donated to Salud during Oregon Wine Month. This initiative aims to support the community by contributing to Salud's efforts to provide healthcare services to seasonal vineyard workers and their families. By drinking any of these featured Oregon wine brands this month, or by making a charitable donation, you can easily demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility and community involvement!
By participating in Oregon Wine Month, you can not only discover new and exciting wines, but also support the local growers, winemakers and communities that make them possible. Whether you prefer a crisp Pinot Gris, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or something in between, Oregon has a wine for every palate and occasion. So go ahead, raise a glass and toast to Oregon Wine Month. Continue reading to learn more about the amazing brands participating in Oregon Wine Month with RNDC!
In the rolling hills of Oregon's Willamette Valley, a hidden gem of the wine world lies waiting to be discovered: Underwood Wine.
Underwood Wine is produced by the Union Wine Company, a winery that has made a name for itself by breaking the rules and doing things differently. Unlike many wineries in the region, Union Wine Co. doesn't just produce expensive, high-end wines that are meant to be collected and admired. Instead, they focus on making high-quality wines that are accessible and approachable for everyone. One of the things that sets Underwood Wine apart is their commitment to sustainability. The winery has a number of initiatives in place to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the environment, from using recycled materials for their packaging to using solar power to run their winery.
But what about the wine itself? Underwood Wine offers a range of varietals that are sure to please any wine lover's palate. Their Pinot Noir is particularly noteworthy, with flavors of dark cherry and raspberry, and a smooth finish that leaves you wanting more. Their Pinot Gris is another standout, with notes of apple and pear and a crisp, refreshing finish. What makes Underwood Wine truly special, however, is the experience of drinking it. There's something about the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, the cool, misty mornings and the zephyrs that makes every sip of Underwood Wine taste even better. Whether you're sipping a glass on your porch or sharing a bottle with friends over a meal, Underwood Wine has a way of bringing people together and making any moment feel special.
Of course, Underwood Wine is just one example of the incredible wines that Oregon has to offer. With its unique climate and soil, the region is quickly becoming known as one of the world's premier wine destinations. From the crisp whites of the Columbia Gorge to the bold reds of the Rogue Valley, there's something for everyone in Oregon wine country. If you're looking to try some of the best wines that Oregon has to offer, look no further than Underwood. With their commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation, this winery is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.
Résonance wine is a brand of Pinot Noir produced in Oregon's Willamette Valley. This region is known for its exceptional Pinot Noir grapes, and Résonance wine is no exception. The brand is owned by Maison Louis Jadot, a French winery with over 150 years of experience in the industry. The company's expertise in winemaking, combined with the unique terroir of Willamette Valley, results in a wine that is both elegant and complex. This brand has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. This Oregon-based winery specializes in producing premium Pinot Noir using a unique approach that emphasizes the terroir of each vineyard site. What does that mean exactly? Well, Résonance's winemakers believe that the land, soil and climate of a vineyard all play a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile of the grapes grown there. By working closely with the land and using traditional winemaking techniques, Résonance creates wines that truly capture the essence of their origins.
Résonance wine is made using traditional winemaking techniques, including hand-picking the grapes and aging the wine in French oak barrels. The result is a wine that has a deep ruby color, with aromas of dark cherries, blackberries and hints of spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, with flavors of black cherry, plum and vanilla. The tannins are firm, but not overpowering, making the wine an excellent choice for pairing with food. Overall, Résonance wine is a premium Pinot Noir that offers a unique taste of Oregon's Willamette Valley, with a touch of French expertise.
Nestled in the heart of Oregon's picturesque Willamette Valley lies Duck Pond Cellars, a family-owned winery that has been producing exceptional wine since 1993. Situated in the Dundee Hills region, known for its rich soil and cool climate, Duck Pond Cellars has established itself as a leader in sustainable wine-growing practices. The team at Duck Pond Cellars are passionate about crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of Oregon. They believe that by working in harmony with the land, they can create wines that are truly special. From the moment the grapes are harvested, great care is taken to ensure that the wine-making process is as natural as possible. The result is a range of minimal-intervention wines that are bursting with flavor and character.
At Duck Pond Cellars, sustainability is not just a buzzword - it's a way of life. The team takes great pride in tending to their vineyards using environmentally-friendly methods. They are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and minimizing waste, while still producing some of the finest wines in the region. Oregon is renowned for its romantic, picturesque landscapes and Duck Pond Cellars is no exception. The winery's idyllic location, combined with their dedication to sustainable practices and exceptional wine-making, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience some of the very best that Oregon has to offer.
Archery Summit is a winery located in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley, an area renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Founded in 1993, the winery has been producing premium wines that reflect the unique character of the region for nearly three decades. What sets Archery Summit apart is their commitment to crafting wines that showcase the individuality of each vineyard site. They carefully select and farm their vineyards to produce grapes with distinct flavors and aromas, then use traditional winemaking techniques to allow those characteristics to shine through in the finished wine.
One of Archery Summit's standout wines is their flagship Pinot Noir, which is a true reflection of the terroir of the Willamette Valley. It's a wine that captures the essence of the region's cool climate, with bright red fruit flavors and a subtle earthiness that speaks to the soil in which the grapes were grown. But Archery Summit's portfolio goes beyond Pinot Noir. They also produce Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, both of which are equally impressive in their own right. Their Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing, with notes of citrus and minerality, while their Pinot Gris is light and lively, with delicate floral aromas.
Overall, Archery Summit is a winery that exemplifies the best of Oregon wine. Their commitment to quality, their respect for the land and their dedication to showcasing the unique character of the Willamette Valley all come together in their exceptional wines. It's a winery that's worth seeking out for anyone who loves great wine and wants to experience the romance of Oregon's wine country.
ROCO Winery is a premier winery located in the heart of Oregon's wine country. Founded by Rollin Soles, a renowned winemaker with over 30 years of experience, ROCO has quickly become a go-to destination for wine lovers looking for high-quality and elegant wine. At ROCO, they take a hands-on approach to winemaking, focusing on crafting wines that are true expressions of the terroir. They source their grapes from some of the finest vineyards in the Willamette Valley, carefully selecting only the best fruit for their wines. With an unwavering commitment to quality, ROCO produces wines that are as vibrant, complex and balanced as the Oregon terrain.
One of ROCO's most noteworthy accolades is receiving Double Gold in the 2013 Oregon Wine Awards. This is a testament to the exceptional quality of their wines and the dedication of their team. But it's not just about the awards. Oregon wine country is a magical place, and ROCO embodies the spirit of this special region. From the misty mornings to the warm afternoons, the unique microclimate of the Willamette Valley provides the perfect conditions for growing world-class wine. And at ROCO, they embrace this magic, crafting wines that capture the essence of the land. So, whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, a visit to ROCO Winery is sure to be a memorable experience. With its commitment to quality, passion for winemaking and stunning setting, ROCO is a true gem of Oregon wine country.
In the late 1960s, Dick and Nancy Ponzi relocated their young family to the Willamette Valley, motivated by a sense of adventure and a deep desire to produce exceptional Pinot Noir. Following multiple trips to Burgundy to conduct research and a thorough search for the perfect location, they purchased a 20-acre parcel of land on a small farm located southwest of Portland, Oregon. Although it was considered a bold move at the time, as the Pacific Northwest was not known for its Pinot noir production, the couple recognized the Northern Willamette Valley's climate was well-suited for cool climate varieties. Subsequently, Pinot noir cuttings were planted, and in 1970, the establishment of Ponzi Vineyards came to fruition.
Ponzi Vineyards is a winery situated in the verdant countryside of Oregon. The vineyard has been in operation for over 50 years and is now run by the second generation of the Ponzi family. The family has a rich history of winemaking that spans back to the early 1970s when Dick and Nancy Ponzi first started cultivating the land. They now produce many quality wines in its purest, most unadulterated expression. The winery produces a wide variety of wines, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Arneis, among others. All of the grapes are grown on-site and are carefully tended to by the experienced winemakers who work there at the facilities is the Laurelwood District AVA.
With utmost care and deep respect for the land, Ponzi Vineyards has devoted all of its 130 acres of vineyards to the pursuit of sustainable viticulture and enology, earning the prestigious LIVE Certified Sustainable distinction, the highest standard in the world. Every grape variety is meticulously matched to the unique terroir and climate, reflecting the vineyard's deep commitment to producing exceptional wines. With its unwavering dedication to quality, Ponzi Vineyards has set the benchmark for Oregon and proudly stands among the most outstanding wine producers in the nation, embodying the timeless beauty and rich traditions of winemaking. Everyone can appreciate the attention to detail and passion that goes into every bottle of Ponzi wine. The winemakers take great care to ensure that each grape is harvested at the perfect time and that the wine is aged in the best possible conditions. The result is a range of wines that are rich, flavorful and distinct.
Visitors to the winery can take a tour of the grounds and learn about the history of the Ponzi family and their winemaking traditions. They can also sample a variety of wines in the tasting room, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ponzi Vineyards is a great place to start your wine journey or revisit for any wine lover. With everything that goes into this brand and its rich history, it's no wonder that Ponzi wines are considered some of the best in the region. Raise a glass of Ponzi Pinot Noir and toast to the artistry and dedication of the winemakers at Ponzi Vineyards!
As you traverse the winding roads of Oregon's stunning countryside, your senses are awoken by the sight of rolling hills and sprawling vineyards. Here in the heart of the Pacific Northwest lies a hidden gem that's waiting to be discovered - Kings Estate wine. In 1990, Ed King Jr. found himself in possession of two small vineyards as part of his larger timberland and farmland properties. As he tended to these grapes, his passion for the art of winemaking began to bloom. One day, while purchasing hay for his beloved horses, fate led him to a breathtaking parcel of land - a cattle ranch nestled in the misty hills of Lorane, Oregon. As he stood there, looking out over the rolling hills, Ed knew that this was the place where his dreams would take root.
With the help of his father, Ed King Sr., they purchased the land and set about transforming it into a vineyard unlike any other. The first grapes were planted in 1992 on just 16.5 acres, and soon, more than 100 acres had been planted. Every vine was carefully matched to the soil and climate of the land, creating a vineyard of unparalleled diversity. In 1995, the first vintage of estate-grown grapes was harvested - a true labor of love that had been years in the making. And so, King Estate was born - a place where dreams come to life, and the love of wine flows freely.
With over 500 acres of land dedicated to grape cultivation, Kings Estate boasts a wide variety of varietals that are carefully crafted by their team of skilled winemakers. Whether you prefer a crisp Chardonnay, a velvety Pinot Noir, or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, Kings Estate has something to suit every palate. But the beauty of Kings Estate isn't just found in their wines - it's also reflected in the stunning surroundings. Oregon's unique climate and topography create the perfect environment for grape growing, and the winery's location amidst the rolling hills provides a breathtaking backdrop for a day of wine tasting.
At Kings Estate, wine is more than just a beverage - it's a reflection of Oregon's vibrant culture and heritage. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, this winery is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by wine lovers and adventure-seekers alike.
There's nothing quite like a glass of wine on a rainy day, and Rainstorm Wine from Oregon is the perfect choice to cozy up with. Made from the finest grapes grown in the Willamette Valley, Rainstorm is Oregon culture and weather in a bottle.
Experience the true essence of Oregon's dynamic character with Rainstorm, the quintessential Pinot brand of the region. From the luscious hills of Willamette, Rainstorm sources only the finest grapes to produce exquisitely balanced, yet intricately layered Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. As the wine industry's fastest-growing red and white varietals, respectively, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris have quickly become Rainstorm's specialty. Since its inception in 1992, Rainstorm Estate Vineyard and Winery has been dedicated to crafting award-winning Pinots at the heart of the newly recognized Van Duzer Corridor AVA, where the cool breezes bring out the full potential of the grapes. Led by Winemaker Bryan Croft and his team, Rainstorm invites you to indulge in the exquisite flavors of their Pinot Noir Rosé, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, and discover why Rainstorm is truly the embodiment of Oregon's finest wines.
“Get ready to meet food’s best friend,” is the first thing you’ll see on Evolution Wine’s website. And you know what? They’re not wrong. When Sokol Blosser Winery introduced Evolution in 1998, they had no idea it would become a full-blown phenomenon. But today, this white blend is adored by legions of fans across North America, Europe, and Asia, who have given new meaning to the word "loyal." Evolution Lucky No. 9 is a nod to Beetles song, “Revolution 9.”
Back in the day, there were few white blends available, and Evolution found its way into a niche that would soon become a significant part of the wine industry. As word of its excellence spread, Evolution's popularity soared to unexpected heights. It seems that people were drawn to the wine's affordability, delicious flavor and carefree packaging, which made it perfect for casual get-togethers with friends.
But don't let Evolution's easygoing vibe fool you. The wine's creators had a master plan, one that aimed to create a blend that was deceptively simple yet complex in flavor. The process of producing a proprietary blend like Evolution involves both art and science, with the perfect combination of various grapes and flavors coming together through a mix of intention and luck. It's this blend of intention and happenstance that gave rise to the label's "Luck vs. Intention" tagline, a nod to the careful craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Evolution. Will this wine become as iconic as its name inspiration? Only time will tell!
Welcome to the magnificent Stoller Vineyard, a sprawling 400-acre property located in the heart of Oregon's Dundee Hills. With its lush, rolling hills and majestic mountain ranges as the backdrop, this enchanting vineyard boasts 225 acres of meticulously cultivated vines, ranging in elevation from 210 to 650 feet. The secret to Stoller's success lies in its unique microclimate, expertly crafted by the surrounding mountains. Thanks to this natural buffer, the vineyard enjoys a warm and consistent climate that ensures the grapes ripen perfectly every time.
If you look closely, you'll notice that the south-facing vines are planted in an intricate, tightly spaced pattern, creating a breathtaking sight to behold. And the magic doesn't stop there - these exceptional vines are nurtured in Jory, the legendary and fertile red soil that has become synonymous with the Dundee Hills. As the autumn breeze rolls in, the grape harvest season in Oregon begins, and at Stoller Vineyard, they do things with an elegant touch. Under the soft morning light, before the sun can even peek over the horizon, a team of skilled harvesters makes their way through the vineyard, delicately selecting each grape cluster with small and sharp bypass pruners. These precious clusters are then carefully placed in 5-gallon picking buckets, which are eventually loaded into large bins and transported to the winery. Once there, the fruit is welcomed into the cool, serene winery, where it can rest and reach the perfect temperature before being processed. At Stoller Vineyard, the harvest is not just a task, it's an art form.
In the world of wine, everything matters. The passion, the love you put into the wine, the climate, the soil and, what we’re seeing more of these days, sustainability. Stoller Vineyard's winery practices are truly remarkable, as they go above and beyond in their efforts to maintain a sustainable environment. Through their Low Input Viticulture and Enology (LIVE) program, they plant lush cover crops and colorful wildflowers to create a haven for beneficial insects, while also preserving natural habitats for local wildlife. Chemical sprays are largely avoided, ensuring that the vineyard remains a thriving, eco-friendly ecosystem.
Their LIVE certification further emphasizes their commitment to environmental stewardship, with a particular focus on energy efficiency, safety, and responsible wastewater treatment. The winery's underground catacombs are especially impressive, drawing in fresh, cool air at night to create a natural and effective cooling system.
Go ahead and pop open a bottle of Stoller this Oregon Wine Month and see if you can taste the difference. Spoiler alert—you will!
From the Founder and CEO himself, Jim Bernau, “Our mission in growing cool-climate varietals is to create elegant, classic Oregon wines from the Willamette Valley Appellation. As native Oregonians, we treasure our environment and use sustainable practices in growing and vinifying our wine grapes.” And how Willamette Valley Vineyards has done that in spades! Founded in 1983, Willamette Valley Vineyards has been producing award-winning wines for almost 40 years. Bernau had a vision of creating a sustainable winery that would reflect Oregon's unique culture and landscape, and he has succeeded beyond measure. Today, Willamette Valley Vineyards is one of the most respected and beloved wineries in the region.
Bernau had always been a wine enthusiast, and his passion for the drink had taken him on an exciting journey. His dream was to build a world-class winery in Oregon that would rival the very best in the world. He knew it was a lofty goal, but he was determined to make it happen. Over time, the winery began to gain a reputation for excellence. Wine Enthusiast magazine even named it "One of America's Great Pinot Noir Producers". But perhaps the most unique thing about this winery was its ownership structure. It was owned not by a wealthy individual or corporation, but by over 20,000 wine enthusiasts who had come together to make Jim's dream a reality.
The approach at Willamette Valley Vineyard was all about quality over quantity. They focused on careful canopy management and yield balance to achieve wines that were truly expressive of the varietal and the place where they were grown. Each vineyard lot was fermented and barreled separately, and only the best of the best made it into their single vineyard designate bottlings. Their wines were a true labor of love, the product of a collaborative effort between the entire vineyard and winemaking staff. Their stylistic emphasis was on pure varietal fruit characters, with attention to depth, richness of mouthfeel and balance.
Jim's vision had truly come to life, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the thousands of wine enthusiasts who had come together to make it happen. The winery was a testament to the power of community and a reminder that, with enough passion and determination, anything is possible. If you're looking for an unforgettable wine tasting experience that showcases the best of Oregon's culture and landscape, look no further than Willamette Valley Vineyards.
Imagine yourself standing in the lush vineyards of Oregon's most coveted winegrowing regions, and you'll discover the exquisite wines of Firesteed. Their winery emblem, a majestic horse, represents the perfect combination of grace, fire and beauty that has been revered since time immemorial. As pioneers who followed their dreams into uncharted territories, Firesteed embodies the symbol of the frontier spirit, which is reflected in their outstanding wines that showcase select vineyards.
Firesteed Cellars is where the magic of winemaking takes place. It all began in 1992 when Firesteed was founded with a mission to create exceptional wines that capture the unique flavors of Oregon's varietals, particularly the famous Pinot Noir. Fast forward to 2002, and Firesteed opened its official winery and tasting room in Rickreall, Oregon. Nestled off the beaten path, this charming location has been the hub of Firesteed's wine production ever since.
Firesteed's dedication to quality and innovation has made it a standout in the wine industry. Their Pinot Noir is a crowd favorite, but that's not all they're known for. Firesteed has also made a name for itself with its delightful Pinot Gris and Riesling. And if that's not impressive enough, they've recently launched a range of AVA-specific Pinot Noirs, including Dundee Hills and Yamhill Carlton, as well as a vineyard designate Pinot Noir. But wait, there's more! Firesteed also boasts a repertoire of limited-production wines, including a refreshing Rosé of Pinot Noir and a delightful Chardonnay. Firesteed Cellars is a must-visit destination for anyone with a taste for the fire things in life.
Venturing into the bountiful lands of Oregon, Joseph Wagner, a skilled winemaker from California, gave birth to the magnificent creation known as Elouan. With a meticulous process and an unyielding passion for crafting exceptional wines, Joseph honed his expertise in the renowned Pinot Noir region, where he produced a wine with an unmatched depth of flavor, lively vibrancy, and luxurious suppleness. The result? A truly magnificent wine that stands as a testament to the exquisite art of winemaking.
Joseph is a fifth generation Napa Valley winemaker who lives and breathes the art of winemaking. He has been passionate about his craft since he was a teenager and in 2001, at the tender age of nineteen, he took the plunge and never looked back. Joseph 's dedication to winemaking is unmatched and his natural talent for crafting exquisite wines quickly earned him a reputation in the industry. Driven by a desire to innovate and explore new ways to offer the highest quality products, Joseph founded Copper Cane Wine & Provisions in January 2014. His vision was to create wines that not only satisfied consumers' appetites for genuine craftsmanship, but also captured his interest and passion for the art of winemaking.
Enter Elouan, a product of Joseph's unwavering commitment to his craft. This Oregon Pinot Noir boasts a depth of flavor, vibrancy, suppleness, and a strong sense of place that are a testament to Joseph 's dedication to creating wines that are both authentic and unforgettable.
Ah, Kings Ridge wine—now that's a name that conjures up images of rolling hills, lush vineyards and of course, great wine. If you're a fan of Oregon wines, you've probably already heard of Kings Ridge, but if you haven't, let me tell you a bit about this incredible winery. Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Kings Ridge is situated in one of the most picturesque wine regions in the world. The vineyards are surrounded by towering trees, babbling brooks and stunning mountain vistas—it's a truly magical place.
But of course, what really matters is the wine. And let us tell you, Kings Ridge does not disappoint in that department. They specialize in Pinot Noir, which is one of the signature varietals of the Willamette Valley. Their Pinots are elegant and complex, with notes of dark fruit, spice and a hint of earthiness that is quintessentially Oregon. But that's not all - Kings Ridge also produces some fantastic Chardonnays and Pinot Gris. Their whites are crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity and a lovely minerality that perfectly captures the terroir of the Willamette Valley.
If you're a lover of Oregon wines, or just great wine in general, you owe it to yourself to try Kings Ridge. It's a winery that truly captures the magic of the Willamette Valley, and their wines are a testament to the beauty and complexity of Oregon wine. May this monarchy continue to reign supreme, and long live the Kings Ridge!
As your trusted distributor, RNDC is proud to offer a wide selection of premium wines from all over the world. But right now, in particular, let’s draw your attention to our fantastic range of Oregon wines, which are becoming increasingly popular among wine enthusiasts and critics alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to impress your customers with the exquisite flavors of Oregon wines. Contact us today to place your order or log in to see our curated list of some of Oregon’s finest wines. Enjoy the benefits of working with RNDC, your premier wine distributor.
Celebrate Oregon Wine Month Responsibly.
Cheers!
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