Wineries
discover a new varietal
Every season has a reason to come taste our wines
It’s surprising that Southern Oregon produces some of the most diverse wine varietals of anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest. The southernmost, warmest and driest AVA (American Viticultural Area) in Oregon with over 300 days of sunshine and cool nights lends itself to the Mediterranean type climate and enables these varietals to thrive.
The cooler areas of Southern Oregon produce wonderful Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer while the warmer, more arid regions ripen big reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Merlot, Malbec, Dolcetto, Zinfandel, Grenache and Syrah. Many other unique varieties such as Albariño, Pinot Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah and Viognier are also grown. In fact, the first Tempranillo grapes were planted in Southern Oregon.
A short drive through the Rogue Valley Wine Country exploring the many wineries will lead you to the Applegate Valley and north to the Umpqua.
That is why Wine Enthusiast (2016) named Ashland the Top 10 Best Wine Travel Destinations in the World, (next to Bordeaux, France) because of our unmatched hospitality, accommodations and location. Looking for the perfect wine vacation? Ashland is the place to stay to explore our wine region at your leisure on your own or with one of our wine tour companies. May is Oregon Wine Month with events and festivities happening around the state. Each August, take part in the Oregon Wine Experience in nearby Jacksonville that showcases many Ashland wineries.