See, sniff, sip, spit and repeat. Ever feel like you’re part of a group of cattle, being herded from one cookie-cutter winery to the next? Always being forced to cut your visit short to make room for the next tour bus? At many of the larger wineries around the world, this experience is the norm, often detracting from the pursuit of relaxation, good times with friends and the discovery of fine wine.
In a state known for being a little off-the-norm, the vintners in Oregon’s Willamette Valley have a different philosophy. For these winemakers, it’s not about large droves of visitors, but about a quality, hands-on experience where they can share their love of exceptionally good wine with fellow wine lovers. For this reason, many have incorporated additional elements into their wineries to broaden the visitor’s experience, whether it’s an equestrian wine adventure, a traditional grape stomp or a good old-fashioned murder mystery.
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As the air begins to chill, the leaves turn color and the harvest is gathered, Oregon’s culinary craftspeople invite travelers to enter their workshops where they serve up superb cuisine, excellent wines and welcoming hospitality. This is the time of year when locals and visitors alike celebrate Oregon’s bounty, when winemakers are finishing the crush of Pinots and Chardonnays and toast the season by bringing out some of their best vintages to share with company. Brewers mull over next season’s beer, while chefs cook up signature dishes and create new masterpieces. Willamette Valley inns and B&Bs welcome visitors to kick back, put their feet up and enjoy a glass of Pinot noir while watching the sun set over the hills. During the Oregon Bounty promotion, the doors to the Willamette Valley are open, beckoning the curious traveler to explore its lush fields, friendly people and appreciation for the good life.
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