Oregon

Most of Oregon’s vineyards are in the very sunny Willamette Valley which is in the northern part of Oregon and lies to the west of the Cascade Mountains and runs from the Columbia river in Portland southward.  There are six sub appellations here, including Dundee Hills.  The region experiences cool wet winters and warm dry summers, with the Pacific Ocean providing a moderating cooling affect.  The moderate maritime climate is ideal for growing cool climate grapes like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. 

Southern Oregon continues down to California and includes Umpqua Valley, Roqgue Valley among other AVAs.  The warmest sites are found here and heat loving grapes do well, but there are still cooler areas found along hillsides and valleys that produce elegant cool climate wines.