So it goes: so much wine, so little time.
Fortunately there are collaborative tastings that offer many producers pouring many bottles under one roof. Collaborative tastings not only expose you to many new wines efficiently, but they’re also a unique opportunity to explore the character of a specific region or style.
Three collaborative tastings are approaching in the next few weeks. Keep reading for full details on the Oregon Chardonnay Celebration, the Walla Walla Wine Alliance spring tasting and the 48th annual Greatest of the Grape wine and food gala in the Umpqua Valley.
OREGON CHARDONNAY CELEBRATION
February 24 – Willamette Valley
Forty Oregon producers, representing both Oregon’s pioneers and new guard, will come together to delve into what makes Oregonian Chardonnay distinct through education and enjoyment. Called “the winemakers grape,” this is a particularly exciting time to plug into Oregon Chardonnay as more acres are planted, more bottles filled and more accolades heaped upon the finished product.
OREGON CHARDONNAY CELEBRATION >>
WALLA WALLA WINE
February 26 – Portland
Walla Walla, WA is known for the sweet onions that share its name. But the patchwork of vineyard acres that surround the town and stretch south across the border into Oregon and The Rocks District of Milton Freewater AVA are the true agriculture stars. While Walla Walla is 250 miles east of the Willamette Valley, many of the wines are closer in kinship to France’s Rhone Valley. If you’re in the Portland area in two weeks you can skip the travel to either destination and explore 30 Walla Walla producers under one roof.
GREATEST OF THE GRAPE
March 3 – Umpqua Valley
Greatest of the Grape is the longest running fine wine event in Oregon, and for good reason. This year is the 48th annual celebration of Southern Oregon’s bounty. More than 30 wineries will be pouring alongside artisan appetizers and accompanied by live music and a silent auction. It’s a party – Southern Oregon style – for all the senses.
