From January through March, Cellar Season presents a unique and intriguing opportunity for wine lovers to explore winery tasting rooms throughout Oregon. While the vineyards outside may appear dormant, the tasting rooms come alive with a distinct charm and intimacy during this period.
Winery staff, often more available during this off-peak time, are eager to share their expertise and knowledge with visitors. Guests have the chance to engage in one-on-one conversations with winemakers and cellar masters, gaining insights into the nuances of winemaking, the characteristics of different varietals, and the art of blending.
During this time of year, the scenic beauty of Oregon wine country takes on a different, serene allure. Crisp winter air and passing rain enhances the stunning landscapes. Vineyards may be blanketed in a peaceful layer of frost or dusted with a light covering of snow, creating a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting.
In essence, Cellar Season in Oregon wine country beckons visitors to embrace a more intimate and authentic wine tasting experience. It’s an opportune time to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle, connect with passionate winemakers, and discover hidden gems that make this region truly exceptional.
The ambiance within tasting rooms during cellar season is cozy and tranquil, offering a welcoming escape from the hustle and bustle of the more crowded harvest and summer months. The slower pace allows for a more personalized and attentive tasting experience, where visitors can savor each sip and ask questions without feeling rushed.
Moreover, many wineries release special and limited-edition wines during this time, providing an exclusive opportunity for visitors to taste and purchase wines that may not be available at other times of the year. Cellar season tastings often feature barrel samples, allowing guests to taste the evolving wines directly from the source.
Scroll on to find out how to sip, savor, and relax during Oregon wine country’s coziest season…
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International Pinot Noir Celebration Sweepstakes
Enter to win passes to Oregon’s premier wine event of the summer.
Cellar Season Events
From Cellar Season and beyond, there are wine events to be savored across Oregon.
Pair it with Oregon
Enhance the dining experience with an array of Oregon wines.
Guide to Truffle Foraging
Technically, anyone can forage for truffles in the Willamette Valley—but it’s difficult without some help. Here’s how a guide can help you have a memorable experience from the Willamette Valley Visitor’s Association.
Oregon Wine Flies Free
If you’re visiting Oregon wineries during Cellar Season, it’s the perfect time to stock up on bottles. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan™ members may check up to one case of wine for free on any Alaska Airlines domestic flight from Oregon, Washington, Idaho or California.
Cellar Season Around Oregon
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Order a Wine Country License Plate
Oregon residents can order the special wine country license plate for an additional fee. Revenue generated from the license plate will go to Travel Oregon’s Oregon Wine Country License Plates Matching Grant Program, which provides grants to tourism promotion agencies for projects that promote wine and culinary tourism.
