WELCOME TO THE WILLAMETTE VAL The Willamette Valley stands as Oregon's leading wine region, home two-thirds of the state's wineries and vineyards and globally renowned for exceptional Pinot noir production. This vast and diverse appellatio stretches over 100 miles from the Columbia River near Portland to just south of Eugene, spanning 60 miles at its widest point. Within this expansive territory lie 11 distinct nested appellations, each contributing unique characteristics to the region's wines. The valley enjoys an ideal growing climate, protected from Pacific Ocean air by the Coast Range mountains to the west and from Eastern Oregon's desert-like conditions by the Cascade Range to the east. This geography creates a gentle growing season with warm summers and cool evenings, pleasant autumns that balance rainfall with sunshine, and mild winters followed by long springs. While Pinot noir remains the flagship grape, Willamette Valley winemakers also craft exceptional Pinot gris, Chardonnay, Syrah, Riesling, Pinot blanc, and other varieties. The region is also quickly gai prominence for its sparkling and rosé wines. PHOTOS FROM TOP: ANDRÉA JOHNSON; AARON LEE
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