A Toast to Oregon: The Future of Our Wine
In the heart of Oregon, something extraordinary is happening. If you’ve ever meandered along Highway 99W or spent a lazy afternoon along the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Our fertile land, blanketed in misty morning dew and bathed in that soft, golden Oregon sun, is giving birth to some of the world’s most captivating wines.
Oregon’s Viticultural Victories
Oregon has come a long way since Richard Sommer first planted his vineyard in the Umpqua Valley back in 1961. Today, it’s hard to imagine our fair state without its over 700 wineries, from the hills of Applegate Valley down south to the stunning Columbia Gorge up north. And then there’s our gem, the Willamette Valley, with its cool climate Pinot Noirs that have gained global recognition, even standing toe-to-toe with those fancy varietals from Burgundy.
Venturing Beyond Pinot Noir
There’s more to Oregon than just Pinot though. Winemakers are dancing with diversity, whispering to these vines, coaxing the potential from every varietal. Chardonnay, once deemed too delicate for our moody skies, is now flourishing in our soil. In fact, stop by Eyrie Vineyards in McMinnville, and you’ll taste some of the finest – a white wine that sings of crisp green apples and wildflower honey.
Across the state, vineyards are also experimenting with less common grapes. Leaning Tree Vineyard in Southern Oregon’s Applegate Valley is bottling captivating Syrahs, while Remy Wines out in Dundee is charming us with Italian varietals like Lagrein and Dolcetto. Are we in Italy or Oregon? Sometimes it’s hard to tell.
Exploring Emerging Regions
But success isn’t just measured in varietals – it’s also about capitalizing on the diversity of our landscapes. The future of Oregon wine lies in the exploration of our emerging regions. And let me tell you, few places encapsulate the spirit of Oregon winemaking better than the Columbia Gorge.
Straddling the mighty Columbia River, wedged between Mount Hood’s snowy peaks and the arid expanses of the Columbia Basin, this region is a wild kaleidoscope of climates. One minute you’re soaking in the sun near Memaloose State Park, the next you’re shivering in your Pendleton woolen jacket, standing in the shadow of Cascade Locks. It’s that kind of kooky climate contrast that’s making wine magic in the Gorge.
The Future Uncorked
Perhaps what’s most exciting is that the Oregon wine story is still being written. Every year, more passionate winemakers are leaving their mark on our viticultural landscape, defining the character of Oregon wine. We’re seeing more sustainable practices at vineyards like Maysara in McMinnville, biodynamic farming at Johan Vineyards in Rickreall, and an increasing focus on urban winemaking in cities like Portland with hip spots like Teutonic Wine Company.
As Oregonians, we’re no strangers to the unexpected. Rain in July? Pfft – typical. Ducks beating Beavers? A toss-up. But when it comes to our wine, the surprises are always welcome. Who could have guessed that our state, known for its drizzle and Douglas Firs, would foster such a vibrant wine scene?
But that’s the magic of Oregon. In the face of every raincloud, we find a reason to celebrate. In every glass of Oregon wine, we taste our past, present, and future – a liquid testament of our resilience, creativity, and spirit.
So, raise your glass, Oregon wine lovers. Take a sip and savor the flavors. Let’s toast to the land we call home – to its vibrant green valleys, its misty mountain peaks, and the trails left unexplored. Further, here’s to our future, in every glowing sunset, every rainfall, and every grapevine reaching for the sky, we see the bright future of Oregon wine unfolding, ready to be savored and shared. Cheers to that!