Oregon Wine Month: In May, people all over the U.S. celebrate the amazing oregon wines. It’s Oregon Wine Month, a time to enjoy the state’s great wines. Events are held all month long to share the many high-quality wines from Oregon’s wine regions, especially the Willamette Valley. This area, known for its beautiful landscapes and delicious wines, is perfect for wine tasting.
During Oregon Wine Month, you can visit local vineyards and wineries. They open their doors for special events and tastings. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Oregon’s winemaking tradition, whether you know a lot or a little about wine. There are activities for everyone, from biking among the vineyards to enjoying dinner at a winery or attending a wine seminar.
Key Takeaways
- Oregon Wine Month is celebrated each May, showcasing the state’s exceptional wines
- The Willamette Valley is a premier destination for wine tasting and exploration
- Local vineyards and wineries host events and tastings throughout the month
- Visitors can enjoy scenic bike rides, intimate dinners, and educational seminars
- Oregon Wine Month is the perfect time to discover the diversity and quality of Oregon wines
Discovering the Diversity of Oregon Wines
Oregon stands out as a top wine producer in the U.S. It boasts 23 unique American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Each area has its own special features, like specific microclimates and soil types. This diversity includes the rich Willamette Valley and the beautiful Columbia Gorge.
Oregon’s wines come in many varieties to please every taste. This ranges from Pinot Noir to Chardonnay. The state’s wine regions promise something exciting for everyone.
Pinot Noir: Oregon’s Flagship Varietal
Pinot Noir is the heart of Oregon’s wine scene. It’s famous across the globe for its smooth and flavorful wines. With the cool climate of places like the Willamette Valley, Oregon creates wines known for their elegance.
Oregon also makes other exceptional wines. These include Chardonnay and Riesling, which do well in cooler areas. In warmer spots like the Rogue Valley AVA, you’ll find great Cabernet Sauvignons and Syrahs. The state’s long growing seasons make these varietals truly stand out.
| Wine Region | Notable Varietals | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Willamette Valley | Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris | Cool climate, long growing season, elegant wines |
| Rogue Valley AVA | Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot | Warm climate, extended growing season, bold reds |
| Columbia Gorge | Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir | Varied microclimates, stunning scenery, crisp whites |
| Umpqua Valley | Tempranillo, Albariño, Grüner Veltliner | Diverse soils, unique micro-valleys, international varieties |
Oregon’s wines cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From well-loved classics like Pinot Noir to rare finds like Grüner Veltliner, Oregon continues to innovate. It’s a place where wine-making celebrates creativity and a deep love for the craft.
Willamette Valley: The Heart of Oregon Wine Country
The Willamette Valley is at the core of Oregon’s wine region. It made it to Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places of 2023 list. Known for small wineries near Corvallis, it’s perfect for both wine lovers and tourists. Each winery in the area tells its own special story.
In the valley’s rolling hills, there are some true finds. Fullerton Wines is in an unexpected spot, hidden in an industrial area near a U-Haul. Valcan Cellars is close to the city’s lodging, offering convenience for visitors. Lumos Wine is another gem, known for its award-winning collection, and it has a guest cabin for members and rentals.
Traveling deeper into the valley shows wineries with long histories and a commitment to the environment. Compton Family Wines began growing organic grapes back in 1976. Then, you have Harris Bridge Vineyards, which crafts a range of wines and spirits, inviting visitors to taste their pinot noir and more.
| Winery | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Cardwell Hill Cellars | Philomath | Oregon Winery of the Year 2021, 560+ awards |
| Airlie Winery | Monmouth | Women-owned and operated |
| Tyee Wine Cellars | Monroe | Popular wine tasting destination |
| Bluebird Hill Cellars | Monroe | Popular wine tasting destination |
| Dragon’s Vineyard | Monroe | Attractive dragon-themed decor |
When visiting Willamette Valley wineries, enjoying local food is a must. Stop by Long Timber Brewery for tasty meals or Benny’s Pizza for a quick snack.
To fully enjoy the valley, grab a Heart of Willamette Wine Passport. It gives you benefits throughout the year. Visit Corvallis and Best Oregon Tours offer great ways to explore the region’s wine spots. This ensures a memorable time for anyone who loves wine.
Embarking on Unforgettable Winery Tours
Oregon Wine Month is the perfect time for memorable winery tours. It shows off Oregon’s diverse and famous wine regions. You can visit places like the Willamette Valley, the Columbia Gorge, and Southern Oregon. Enjoy expertly guided wine tours and private experiences.
Guided Tours: Expertise and Exclusive Access
Guided wine tours are both fun and educational. They are led by expert guides who know a lot about Oregon’s wine scene. Visitors get to see boutique wineries and hidden vineyards. They meet winemakers, walk through beautiful vineyards, and taste unique wines that tell the story of the region.
Highly recommended tour companies, like Black Tie Tours and Pinot Pursuit, have deals for Oregon Wine Month. Black Tie Tours gives a 15% discount to people on the BOB Trail. Pinot Pursuit gives a 20% discount to these visitors.
Custom Private Tours: Tailored to Your Preferences
Private tours are perfect for those wanting something personal. Visitors choose where they want to go, focusing on favorite wines or beautiful spots. Such adventures let you set your own pace, making your wine tasting journey just the way you like it.
Along the Best Oregon Bubbles (BOB) Trail, you can find special sparkling wine experiences. Each offering is unique, ranging from $35 to $60 per person. Some special options include:
| Winery | Experience | Cost per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Elk Cove | Special sparkling wine flight with six sparkling wines, available by reservation Fri-Sun during February only | $40 |
| Gran Moraine | Weekend tasting experience featuring a comparative tasting of iconic Champagnes alongside Oregon sparkling wines | $50 |
| Soter Vineyards | Seasonal tasting experience in February, featuring limited release sparkling wines and small bites | $30 (Wine Club Members) |
| Sokol Blosser Winery | Sokol Blosser’s Bubble Flight, open Thursday-Monday from 10 am to 4 pm | $35 |
| Trisaetum | Memorable sparkling wine experience with five sparkling wines, including a special Extended Tirage from the 2015 vintage | $40 |
You can pick a guided tour or have a tour designed just for you. Oregon Wine Month ensures an incredible look at the state’s top wineries and vineyards.
Celebrating Oregon Wine Month Events
During Oregon Wine Month, the state’s wineries are bustling with life. They showcase Oregon’s wine culture with a range of events. Over 700 wineries take part. This lets visitors dive into Oregon’s vibrant wine scene. They can enjoy special dinners, tastings, live music, and workshops.
The Memorial Day Garden Package at The Allison Inn & Spa is a highlight. It offers a three-night stay and dinner with Durant Vineyards. It also includes spa and dining credits, plus a wine tasting. At the spa, guests enjoy The Bounty of the Willamette Valley Tastings. This free tasting series lets them try local wines, beers, and spirits.
Winery Dinners and Tastings
Throughout the month, wineries offer unique dinners and tastings. They often feature special wines or limited-edition releases. These occasions are perfect for tasting Oregon’s diverse wines. They’re paired with delicious dishes crafted by local chefs. Guests can see what makes Pinot Noir, the state’s main wine, special. They can also explore other wine varieties from Oregon’s nine regions.
Live Music and Entertainment
Wineries also host live music events during Oregon Wine Month. They range from quiet acoustic shows to energetic bands. Visitors can enjoy music while trying Oregon’s finest wines. These events make the celebration lively and fun. They’re perfect for relaxing and meeting new people.
Educational Workshops and Seminars
For those wanting to learn more about Oregon wines, there are educational events. Led by wine experts, these sessions cover tasting, pairing, and wine-growing methods. They also discuss what makes Oregon’s wine regions unique. These workshops are a great chance to dive deeper into winemaking. They improve the experience of tasting wines and understanding Oregon’s varied wine world.
