PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- A spokeswoman for pioneering Oregon winemaker David Lett says he has died at age 69.

The spokeswoman, Emily Stoller Smith, says Lett died at his home in Dundee Thursday night.

She said Lett had been suffering from an illness, which she didn't disclose.

NBC photo

Wine enthusiasts taste pinot noir varieties.

Lett is considered the founder of Oregon's pinot noir industry.

He was the first to plant the pinot noir grape in Oregon, more than four decades ago.

Since then, Oregon pinot noir wines have earned a reputation for high quality around the world.