The next big wine country - Southern Oregon. Move over Napa, Southern Oregon is the next great place for exciting wines, no crowds, and inexpensive tasting fees. Arm yourself with a map from the Southern Oregon Wineries Association and hit the road.
The inside scoop: Head to the smallest, newest wine region in Applegate Valley, Oregon (part of the larger Rogue Valley) to get your wet your palate. Abacela, Troon, and Schmidt Family Vineyards are setting the bar high.
In Umpqua, the northern, oldest wine valley, check out Brandborg Vineyard & Winery and Spangler Vineyards. Ditch your car in historic Jacksonville, of Britt music fest fame, then wander the cluster of tasting rooms, including Quady North.
Our 3 favorite sips:
- Foris Pinot Gris 2008 (Rogue Valley; $14).
- Brandborg "Love Puppets" Pinot Noir 2006 (Umpqua Valley; $30).
- Abacela South Face Block Reserve Syrah 2005 (Southern Oregon; $45).
This is a re-creation of an article in Sunset magazine. Pick up a copy today!
