Why is Oregon popular for wine? Many people are unaware that Oregon is home to many renowned wineries and places for wine lovers to explore. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should go on a wine tour in Oregon:
Oregon has over 500 Wineries
You get to try some of the best wines in the world! Oregon has over 500 wineries, producing award-winning vintages from both big and small producers alike. From Pinot Gris and Riesling to Cabernet Sauvignon, there’s something for every palate. This makes an Oregon wine tour a truly memorable experience.
Premier AVA
Taste the terroir of Oregon’s premier AVA. The Willamette Valley is home to 12 different American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), each with its distinct flavor profile and soil, allowing you to explore the nuances of Oregon winemaking from vineyard to bottle.
Relax and Unwind
Relax and unwind while touring some of the most beautiful wineries in America. Take a stroll through the vineyards, enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds of one of these gorgeous estates, or soak up some sun in a picture-perfect tasting room—the possibilities are endless!
Learn About Viticulture
Learn about sustainable viticulture practices from passionate winemakers who take pride in their craft. Oregon’s winemakers are dedicated to sustainability and are committed to producing wines of the highest quality while having minimal impact on the environment.
Taste Food and Wine Pairings
Enjoy a variety of food and wine pairings throughout your tour. From farm-to-table dinners featuring local ingredients to cheese and charcuterie boards to oysters shucked right in front of you—you won’t go hungry during your wine-tasting adventure!
Meet Awesome People
Meet some of the warmest people in Oregon as you travel from one winery to another. From winemakers who have been crafting their vintages for decades to newbies who are just starting—the folks you meet along the way will make this journey all the more memorable.
Get to Know Wine Lovers
Make some new friends and build lasting relationships with fellow wine lovers. What better way to get to know someone than over a glass of Oregon Pinot Gris or Riesling? Chat up with your tour mates while sipping on your favorite vintage, and you’ll be sure to make some great connections!
Explore the Town
Explore the many delightful towns located along the Willamette Valley Wine Road. From Dundee in the north to McMinnville in the south, each town has its unique charm that is perfect for exploring between wineries and taking in stunning scenery.
Buy Souvenirs
Leave with souvenirs that commemorate your trip! Bring home bottles of your favorite Oregon vintages to share with family and friends, or pick up some artisanal cheeses crafted by local cheesemongers. You’ll also find plenty of unique gifts from the many tasting rooms along the way.
Other Things to do in Oregon
Apart from taking a wine tour, you can also enjoy the following in Oregon:
- Explore the great outdoors: Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll through the woods or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Oregon has it all. Take a hike up Mount Hood, hit the slopes at Mt. Bachelor during ski season, take a dip in one of the many hot springs, or go fishing at Crater Lake.
- Visit some of Oregon’s unique attractions: From gardens and museums to lighthouses and wildlife reserves, there are plenty of interesting places to explore in Oregon. Besides being one of the best cities to move to, Portland is home to Portland’s International Rose Garden, visit Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, tour Tillamook Cheese Factory in Tillamook, or experience life as an old-time gold miner at Sumpter Valley Gold Dredge in Baker County.
- Indulge in some of Oregon’s amazing food and drink: From craft beer and local wine to delicious seafood and farm-fresh produce, you’ll find something for everyone in Oregon. Sample some of the state’s famous Marionberry pie, indulge in a flight of Oregon Pinot Noir or explore the many different breweries located throughout the state.
