Willamette Valley

About Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley Wine Region is one of the most influential wine producing regions in all of Oregon as well as the entire Pacific Northwest. The region spans from the Columbia River in the north all the way down to Eugene in the South. It is by far Oregon’s largest AVA and is dominated by plantings of Pinot Noir and smaller amounts of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Riesling. The Willamette Valley is subdivided into six smaller appellations: Chehalem Mountains AVA, Dundee Hills AVA, McMinnville AVA, Ribbon Ridge AVA, Yamhill-Carlton District AVA and Eola-Amity Hills AVA. According to our Willamette Valley Wine Guide the mild, cool and somewhat moist climate provides ideal conditions for Pinot Noir, creating wines that are often considered the bridge between California and Burgundy style. The Pinot Noirs from this area tend to have black cherry and Dr. Pepper aromas and flavors with nuances of earth and herbs. For a great pairing, try these wines with herb-crusted roasted chicken, pork loin and mild game birds. Established in 1984, this burgeoning region now has more than 200 wineries with many of them producing the top selections in our Willamette Valley Wine Ratings. Check out our Williamette Valley Wine Reviews for more information on these standout wines.