Oregon Travel Council | Page 12

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OREGON WINE

It's

no secret that Oregon has garnered international
as well as worldwide attention for its wine production. Several
regions within the state are ideal for the cultivation of grapes,
and winemaking in Oregon dates back to the 1840’s. The best
known winemaking regions include the renowned Willamette
Valley, Southern Oregon, Umpqua Valley, and Rogue Valley.
Other regions, such as Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla Valley, and
Snake River Valley span the state lines of Washington and Idaho.

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Among the grapes harvested are Pinot noir and Pinot gris, both
of which are the most popular varieties of wine in the state. Pinot
noirs from the Willamette Valley have been critically acclaimed,
and Oregon is regarded as one of the best Pinot-producing regions
in the world. Oregon is home to approximately 300 wineries and
over 700 vineyards. With over 70 varieties of grapes, it should
come as no surprise that wine tasting has influenced much of the
tourism to the state.

After Pinot noir and Pinot gris, the top varieties of wine produced in Oregon are Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling. Other varieties with significant production include Cabernet
Sauvignon, Gewurztraminer, Muller-Thurgau, Pinot blanc,
Sauvignon blanc, Semillon, and Syrah. Aside from wine grape
production, Oregon is also a top U.S. producer of blackberries,
raspberries, blueberries, sweet cherries, strawberries, and cranberries, all of which are suitable for wine production. •

Oregon

is home to

approximately 300 wineries
and over 700 vineyards
OREGON TRAVEL AND RECREATION GUIDE