two-thirds of the state’s wineries and vineyards (more than 700 at last count). Due to its cool climate, the area is recognized as one of the premier pinot noir-producing areas in the world, though it’s also turning out awardwinning pinot gris, pinot blanc, chardonnay and more. To the east of the city, the Columbia River Gorge’s diverse microclimates mean wineries here turn out an astonishing variety of wines. You can sample as many as 40 varietals grown in the vineyards here, many you might not associate with Oregon. You can explore wine country at any time of the year, though the best times to go are summer (perfect vineyard-viewing weather) and fall (spectacularly colorful foliage). In addition to the hundreds of wineries carpeting the region, cozy bed-and-breakfasts and classic Northwest restaurants make it easy to turn a day trip into an extended stay. THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY In 2016 Wine Enthusiast magazine named the Willamette Valley its top wine region of the year. It’s easy to see why. As other regions become increasingly corporate, the industry in the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is still dominated by family-owned wineries and specialty boutiques. With the valley’s well-marked tasting rooms, it’s easy to embark on a self-guided wine tour. Here are a few favorite stops. Start with the pioneering Ponzi Vineyards, which has some of the oldest pinot noir vines in the state. Ponzi operates a state-ofthe-art winery and modern tasting room in Sherwood, which has lovely views of the Chehalem Mountains and Avellana Vineyard. Just north of Dundee on Highway 99W is Newberg, the gateway to the northern Willamette Valley. This small town has a few lauded restaurants and a wonderful pocket of wineries. Try REX HILL, which has been crafting pinot noir for more than 30 years. The estate vineyards, including the crown jewel Jacob-Hart Vineyard, are certified Biodynamic farms, and the winery itself is LIVE certified. The Willamette Valley AVA comprises nine sub-appellations. Just north of Salem, 26 PortlandUncovered.com
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