Wine 101: Wines of Southern Oregon

Spanning three different valleys in the southern part of the State -- Umpqua, Rogue, and Applegate -- the Southern Oregon AVA is home to hundreds of vineyards and wineries that get little attention to the north. Unique soil types, combined with moderate Pacific Ocean airflow and less precipitation create a Mediterranean microclimate perfect for growing wine grapes traditionally found in warmer European sites, like Portugal, Spain, and southern France. And yet, with the addition of some steeper, high-elevation, North-facing vineyards, so too are cooler climate grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay cultivated. We taste through nine different wines from Southern Oregon that you will want to add to your home wine cellar!