Touring the Rogue Valley and Southern Oregon Wine Country

Discover the birthplace of Oregon's wine industry in Southern Oregon. In the mid-19th century, Peter Britt planted a vineyard called Valley View in what is now the Applegate Valley AVA, making Southern Oregon the true origin of Oregon's wine industry. Today, Southern Oregon boasts some of the most diverse wine varietals in the Pacific Northwest, resulting in award-winning wines that wine aficionados love.

Unique Vinicultural Zone

With dozens of microclimates due to latitude, elevation, and oceanic winds, Southern Oregon's range of grapes is truly unique. It makes it one of the most distinct vinicultural zones in the world. Although pinot noir is the most popular grape varietal in the Southern Oregon AVA, accounting for 44% of total vineyard acreage, most of these grapes are sold in bulk to wine producers in the Willamette Valley and northern California. When grown correctly, Southern Oregon pinot noir can have a distinct aroma and flavor profile, with a warm climate that ensures ripe sugar and physiological ripeness and diurnal temperature variations that ensure acidity.

Diverse Wine Varietals

in Oregon's Rogue Valley, this sunny region is home to undulating vineyards and orchards surrounded by rugged mountain ridges. Juniper, cedar, and ponderosa pines carpet the area, creating a picturesque setting for the thriving grape varieties. Southern Oregon's wines offer something for every palate, from Malbecs and Syrahs to Pinot noirs and Rieslings. Explore the region's friendly towns and engage in thrilling outdoor activities or cultural events while enjoying the local wine.

Read more about the Southern Oregon AVA scene ….. Southern Oregon Magazine or Travel Medford