Oregon's Red Wines: Beyond Pinot Noir
When you think of Oregon wines, does Pinot Noir come to mind first? This beloved varietal has made Oregon famous. But, there's a whole world of red wines to explore in the Pacific Northwest.
Oregon's wine scene is more diverse than many think. With nearly 41,899 acres of wine grapes, Pinot Noir leads at 25,123 acres. This leaves room for other varieties to shine.
From the cool Willamette Valley to the warmer Southern Oregon, winemakers are making exceptional reds. These wines show off the state's varied landscapes.
Exploring Oregon's wine regions, I'm amazed by the range of red wines. The Willamette Valley alone has over 20 wine grape varieties. Southern Oregon is known for bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Tempranillo.
What really excites me is Oregon's winemakers' spirit of experimentation. They're not afraid to try new things. From Syrah in The Rocks District to Tempranillo in Southern Oregon, these wines are changing what Oregon reds can be.
Key Takeaways
- Oregon grows over 70 grape varieties, with Pinot Noir leading but not alone
- Willamette Valley offers diversity with over 20 wine grape varieties
- Southern Oregon's warmer climate supports bold reds like Cabernet and Merlot
- The Rocks District is gaining recognition for its distinctive Syrah
- Innovative winemakers are exploring unique varieties and techniques
- Oregon's red wine scene extends far beyond its famous Pinot Noir
The Diverse Landscape of Oregon's Wine Regions
Oregon's wine scene is fascinating. It has many regions, each with its own charm. From the lush Willamette Valley to the rugged Southern Oregon, there's much to explore.
Willamette Valley: More Than Just Pinot Noir
When I think of Willamette Valley wines, Pinot Noir comes to mind. But this region is more than that. You'll find stunning Chardonnays, Pinot Gris, and Rieslings too. The valley's cool climate and rich soil are perfect for these delicate grapes.
Southern Oregon: A Hub for Diverse Red Varieties
Southern Oregon wines are different. The warmer climate in Umpqua, Rogue, and Applegate Valleys allows for a wide range of grapes. I've tasted amazing Tempranillos, Cabernet Francs, and Malbecs here. It's a playground for wine lovers!
Tempranillo: Southern Oregon's Rising Star
In Southern Oregon, Tempranillo wines are becoming more popular. They're making a mark in the area's wine scene. This Spanish grape loves the warm, dry climate of the Rogue Valley.
The Abacela Story: Pioneering Tempranillo in Oregon
Abacela Winery started Oregon's Tempranillo journey in 1995. Earl and Hilda Jones planted the first vines in the Umpqua Valley. Their 1998 vintage won double gold at the 2001 San Francisco International Wine Competition.
Characteristics of Oregon Tempranillo
Oregon Tempranillo has a special taste. These wines have deep fruit flavors and a unique taste. The mix of warm days and cool nights in Southern Oregon makes them both full-bodied and refined.
Pinot's Are Not The Only Reds That Oregon Makes?
Oregon's wine scene is growing beyond Pinot Noir. While Pinot is still a favorite, other reds are gaining attention. Let's explore the exciting red varieties that are making a splash in Oregon.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux Blends
Oregon Cabernet Sauvignon is becoming more popular, now the fifth most planted grape. Willamette Valley Vineyards' Pambrun line offers Bordeaux-style blends from the Walla Walla Valley. These wines mix bold flavors with Oregon's elegance, offering a unique twist on classic Bordeaux.
Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Oregon Merlot is finding its place, especially in warmer areas like Southern Oregon. Cabernet Franc, often overlooked, is thriving in Oregon's varied terroir. These wines show Oregon can make top-notch Bordeaux varieties, alongside its famous Pinot Noir.
Other Emerging Red Varieties
Oregon's winemakers are trying new things with red varieties. Grenache from Analemma Wines in the Columbia Gorge AVA is getting attention. Gamay Noir is also becoming a favorite among Oregon wine fans. This variety shows Oregon's ability to innovate and offer more than just Pinot Noir.
FAQ
What other red wine varieties does Oregon produce besides Pinot Noir?
Oregon is home to many red wines, not just Pinot Noir. You can find Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. There's also Grenache and Gamay Noir. The state's different climates and soils make it perfect for growing these grapes.
What makes the Willamette Valley unique for red wine production?
The Willamette Valley is famous for its Pinot Noir. But it also makes great Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling. The cool weather and well-drained soils give these wines their unique taste.
Which regions in Oregon are known for producing Tempranillo?
Tempranillo thrives in Southern Oregon's Umpqua, Rogue, and Applegate Valleys. These areas have the right mix of elevation and warmth. Abacela Winery in the Umpqua Valley was the first to grow Tempranillo in Oregon. They're still making some of the best Tempranillo wines.
What other red varieties are gaining traction in Oregon?
More red varieties are becoming popular in Oregon. Besides Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, and Gamay Noir are catching attention. Wineries like Willamette Valley Vineyards and Analemma Wines are exploring these grapes. They're showing the potential of these varieties in Oregon.
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