Many experts felt that climate and geographic conditions in Oregon were not ideal for growing vitis vinifera grapes. In the 1960’s a new breed of vintner arrived in Oregon determined to produce grapes of the finest quality. Their determination led to the birth of a new wine region.
Willamette Valley
It was believed that grapes could not thrive in Western Oregon’s Willamette Valley due to its cool wet climate. A group of vintners banned together and planted grape varieties that thrived in France and Germany including Pinot Noir, the celebrated delicate red grape from Burgundy and Riesling. The vintner’s persistence paid off and Oregon has gained worldwide recognition as a premier producer of wine.
