Wine

The Umpqua Valley, with its rolling hills, mild climate, and diverse soils, stands as one of Oregon’s most interesting wine-producing regions. Beyond its climatic and geological features, the passionate winemakers here are dedicated to crafting the finest wines possible. A diverse array of wine varieties, including those from France, Italy, Spain, Austria, and more, thrive in this region. 

With a wine producing history dating back to the 1880s, the Umpqua Valley boasts the oldest continuously operated bonded estate winery, Hillcrest Winery, which has been operating since 1961. Notably, the region pioneered the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Baco Noir, and Tempranillo, making it a leader in introducing new and intriguing wine varieties. 

The valley’s unique geology, comprising numerous smaller valleys each with its own distinct microclimate and soil types, contributes to the innovation within the wine industry here. Over 50 varieties are grown across 4,000+ acres of vineyards. 

Towards the coast in the Elkton area, the foggy and cool coastal climate results in crisp white wines bursting with flavor. Conversely, the hotter and drier summers enable Spanish varieties to flourish in the warmer southern regions of the Umpqua Valley. The mild winters, added by fog layers produced by the Umpqua River, mimic some of the best wine growing regions in France and Italy. 

When you savor Umpqua Valley wine, you are not just tasting the fermented grapes; you are immersing yourself in the region’s wine-making history, climate, passion, and what makes it truly exceptional. 

For visitors seeking to sample Umpqua Valley wine, the region boasts over 30 wineries, each showcasing a unique aspect that makes the wines from this region truly special. For comprehensive information about Umpqua Valley wine, visit Umpqua Valley Wineries.