About the Vino

Southern Oregon Wine Country

World-Class Wines in a Down-to-Earth Destination

Welcome to Southern Oregon Wine Country—where bold reds, crisp whites, and breathtaking vineyard views come together to create one of the most exciting wine destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled between the Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges, this region offers diverse microclimates, rich soils, and winemaking excellence that rivals Napa and Willamette—all without the crowds.

Wine Regions of Southern Oregon

Southern Oregon is home to several celebrated American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), each with a distinct identity and climate:

Applegate Valley AVA

• Established: 2000

• Known for: Syrah, Tempranillo, Viognier

• Featured Wineries: Troon Vineyard, Wooldridge Creek Winery, Schmidt Family Vineyards

Rogue Valley AVA

• Established: 1991

• Known for: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec

• Subregions: Bear Creek Valley, Upper Rogue

Umpqua Valley AVA

• Established: 1984

• Known for: Pinot Noir, Riesling, Baco Noir

• Featured Wineries: Abacela, Reustle-Prayer Rock, HillCrest Vineyard

Southern Oregon AVA

• Established: 2004

• This broader AVA unites both the Rogue and Umpqua Valleys, offering an unmatched range of varietals and terroir diversity in a single wine region.

Accolades and Recognition

• Southern Oregon Wine Country continues to gain national and international attention, with media and wine enthusiasts alike recognizing the region’s exceptional quality and character.

  • Named a Top Global Wine Destination by Forbes Magazine and Wine Enthusiast, as noted by Travel Medford and Stage Pass Oregon.

  • Recognized among the Best Wine Regions in the U.S. by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards, with local establishments like The Winchester Inn ranked in the Top 10 Wine Country Hotels nationwide.

  • Featured by national publications such as Sunset Magazine, New York Times, and Oregon Wine Press for its varietal diversity and vineyard innovation.

Seasonal Wine Events and Experiences

Southern Oregon hosts wine-centric events throughout the year. Here are a few highlights:

• Oregon Wine Experience – Held each August, this multi-day celebration features tastings, auctions, and culinary pairings

• Roam the Rogue – Spring and fall self-guided wine tasting adventures along the Upper Rogue Trail

• Jacksonville Wine Cruise – A popular summer event pairing wine tastings with live music and local food

For a full calendar, visit Travel Medford’s event listings or the Oregon Wine Board.