The Willamette Valley in Oregon may very well be host to the nation’s best wineries, according to many respected wine connoisseurs. The valley is a sweeping beautiful landscape that now boasts itself as the leading wine region in Oregon. The Willamette Valley claims two-thirds of the state’s wineries and vineyards with more than 200 wineries. For those red wine lovers out there, it is widely considered the premier Pinot Noir producing area in the world.
Area locals are quick to remind you how to pronounce “Willamette” by offering a friendly and easy solution with the phrase “Willamette, dammit!” Mostly spared from Pacific storms by the protective Coast Range, the valley follows the Willamette River for over 100 miles from the Columbia River near Portland to just south of Eugene, Oregon. While not too dry, the Willamette Valley has a mild, cool climate with lighter rains than the rest of the coastal region. Favorable weather conditions make it perfect for vineyards to produce some of the best wines in the world.
It’s no longer a secret about this special wine-producing region and nowadays, the Willamette Valley wineries are a popular tourist destination. It’s not just about Napa Valley anymore for wine enthusiasts—these Oregon wineries are growing rapidly in status. As people flock to the region, there are more and more bed & breakfasts, hotels and fabulous restaurants to choose from. From Portland, it’s an easy jaunt to the Willamette Valley winery of your choice in anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours. A recommended favorite place to stay is the exquisite Brookside Inn, a secluded and peaceful retreat in Carlton, Oregon and our choice for the finest in Willamette Valley lodging. The owner, Bruce Bandstra, does it right, with comfortable accommodations and the most sumptuous culinary delights, using the freshest of regional ingredients for breakfast and dinner menus. Bruce is also fully knowledgeable in recommending the best Willamette Valley wine tours nearby, as the Brookside Inn is within close proximity to over 50 wineries in the valley.
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