The Rogue Valley Southern Oregon Wine Country

Rogue Valley (named the ‘next Napa’ by Vogue.com), located in southern Oregon, is a beautiful destination with plenty of activities to entertain you. Whether you’re a nature lover, wine enthusiast, art aficionado, or foodie, it is a fabulous retreat-style region to relax or explore.

Wineries

While the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) to the north may be more well-known than its counterpart to the south, the Rogue Valley AVA is part of the renowned Southern Oregon AVA wine region, which offers picturesque views of rolling hills and vineyards.

The Rogue Valley AVA and its warm micro-climates foster diverse cool and warm grape varieties. With approximately 1,700 square miles in Southern Oregon, nestled between the Cascade and Siskiyou Mountain ranges, and over 30 wineries, it holds its own as a viticultural wonderland. In a world where mass-produced wines dominate the market, the region is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication, and a deep respect for the land come together. If you are looking to plan your next wine adventure, you should visit the following family-owned wineries that focus on sustainable farming practices.

Grizzly Peak Winery

Minutes from Downtown Ashland, with surrounding views of Grizzly Peak and Mt. Ashland, Grizzly Peak Winery is the perfect escape from a busy life. The charming tasting room sits under the incredible landscape of mountains and vineyards. Owners Al and Virginia Silbowitz have been at the helm of this family-run establishment for over two decades and welcome guests to taste with them.

Tasting room manager Naomi Fuerte greeted me, and I tasted a flight of 7 delightful wines with her. The 2019 Reserve Marsanne was one of the most interesting whites — a soft, light wine with crisp stone fruits like yellow pear and green apples with a touch of peppermint. The 2017 Pinot Noir had a natural fizz with notes of cassis, truffles, and anise – this one went home with me. I was also quite taken with the 2015 Cabernet Franc, Gold Winner of the Cascadia Wine Competition — I thoroughly enjoyed my line-up!

Weisinger Family Winery

Also in Ashland, the Weisinger Family Winery has the best patio in the Rogue Valley with tiered layers of outdoor seating overlooking the gorgeous countryside. The winery was founded by John Weisinger and his wife, Carmel, who are true pioneers in the Oregon wine industry, having planted the first roots of their vineyard in 1978. Since 1997, Eric Weisinger, son and second generation who grew up on the property, took over the winery and has been the head winemaker since 1997. He has fully immersed himself in every aspect of the business, and, technically, he has worked in the industry since he was ten years old.

Upon arrival, you will likely receive a welcome pour of the delicious rose of Grenache followed by tableside seating of your preference, depending on the crowd. I tasted a flight with tasting room associate Gabrielle, whose enthusiasm for their wines seemed as though she was family. My favorite wine was the 2021 grenache from the AVRA Vineyard, with notes of candied cherries, dried herbs, and black pepper. The wonderful minerality and spicy flavors of their Touriga Nacional, a famous grape of Portugal, is also one to take home.

Red Lily Vineyards

In the heart of the Applegate Wine Trail is Red Lily Vineyards, nestled on the banks of the Applegate River. With breathtaking views of the vineyards and peaceful sounds of the water bubbling over the stones, this winery is the most serene place to taste. In the tasting room, owners Les and Rachael Martin create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Rachael, also the winemaker, shares her love for Spanish varieties and her passion for growing vines in her hometown.

The property offers several private areas to taste, whether you prefer to relax by the river, sit at the picnic tables amidst oak barrels, or stroll amongst the vines. I did a little bit of all of the above, first with a taste of the delicate Lily Girl Rose, a Grenache and Tempranillo blend, and then with a glass of their Best Day Ever Grenache, which has silky tannins, fresh mulberries, and hints of white pepper and clove.

Quady North

Quady North Winery, situated in the beautiful Rogue Valley of Oregon, is owned and operated by Herb Quady and his wife, Meloney Sanchez Quady. Herb grew up on his family’s winery in Central California and eventually became the winemaker for Troon Vineyard in Rogue Valley, Oregon. The region’s warm days and cool nights reminded Herb of the Rhone Valley in France; therefore, after founding Quady North in 2006, he planted the Rhone varieties he thought would grow best on his land—and voila!

From the outside of Quady North, you will see the large industrial-sized red and black-tasting building with the spectacular scenery of the mountains gazing at it from a distance. Inside is an energetic vibe and a lively concierge team pouring what will make you happy. I fell in love with the velvety tannic structure of their GSM and its earthy flavors of forest floor and kick of cinnamon. The GSM Rose, with notes of fresh wild berries and a touch of wet slate, was a lovely sip on the warm summer day.

Crooked Barn Vineyards

Owners Marcos and Heidi Martines left Brazil over three decades ago to build a life in America. After raising their family and successful professional careers, they wanted to pursue their dream of owning a winery. Their involvement in the industry led to confidence, which led to Crooked Barn Vineyards. After researching a home for their vineyard, they settled in the Rogue Valley, where they knew the soil and climate would nurture the beloved Bordeaux varieties that Marco loves.

The red barn-style tasting room is relaxed and informal, and the umbrella-covered outdoor seating overlooks the Rogue Valley’s magnificent backdrop. Inside, there is palpable friendliness. We sat at a barrel-topped table for a tasting, where Marcos graciously welcomed us and shared his journey in wine. Sticking with his love for Bordeaux, we had a glass of their savory 2020 Cabernet Franc, which displayed tart red fruit flavors, graphite, tobacco, and vegetal notes of green bell pepper—it was an excellent selection.

Valley View

The winery’s original owner was Peter Britt in the late 1850s, a pioneer in the industry and accomplished photographer in Jacksonville until his death in 1906. Owners Frank and Ann Wisnovsky and their family revitalized Valley View Winery in 1972 and have poured their love into every vine and bottle ever since. Their sons Mark and Michael now run the winery, and under their leadership, the winery is working toward a LIVE certification (supporting environmental and socially responsible winegrowing) and Zero Till. Over 50 years old, Valley View is one of the oldest wineries in the Rogue Valley.

When you turn into Valley View Winery, you will be in awe of the majestic, picturesque views in front of you, and it will be hard to stop taking photos. Inside the homey tasting room, we were greeted by the easy-going concierge who shared the winery’s history while pouring us a Rose of Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier. It was bright and zippy with terrific minerality and subtle wild berries on the palate.

LongSword Vineyard

LongSword Vineyard is meticulously cared for by family and friends who cherish owner Matt Sorensen and admire his respect and hard work in the vineyard and winery. The little blue and yellow tasting room amidst fields and vineyards is captivating upon approach, especially when you see kites and gliders flying above their land. That’s right; their property has the perfect conditions for such activity—delightfully windy! And with flowers, chickens, and puppies all around, there is no question the folks at LongSword appreciate everything that lives and breathes.

LongSword is famous for Chardonnay; about half of its production is sparkling wine. They also make a Chardonnay dessert wine, much like a white port. We tasted the Accolade Sparkling, which had a touch of effervescence, flavors of tart apples, peaches, and limes, and a hint of salinity on the back. I was partial to their La Espada Reserve Tempranillo, which had a rich mouthfeel with hints of licorice, tomato leaf, and cooked plums.

Devitt Winery

A true boutique winery, Devitt stands out in its rustic farm-style, affectionately old-tradition kind of way. We arrived to find no one in the tasting room but a number to call if you are there to taste. I loved it; very Mayberry-esque. Owners Jim and Sue Devitt keep a close eye on their winery, but their grandson, Brandon Butler, who learned everything from his grandparents, is the winemaker. He has been in the business since he graduated high school – he walked us through the family’s adventures in wine as we tasted. He’s got some great stories – ask him about the one that ends with ‘when pigs fly’; you’ll see the saying on their bottles and walls.

Seeing some older vintages on the menu was kind of neat, so I tasted a 2010 Cabernet Franc that was barrel-aged for 11 years. It had a grippy tannic structure and notes of raisins, figs, and cassis liqueur with a dry finish—a very unique style of Cabernet Franc. We also tasted the 2023 When Pigs Fly Shiraz Blush, a fuller-bodied rose with undertones of olives, watermelon radishes, and red plums.

 

Downtown Ashland

Ashland, Oregon, is an adorable small town close to many wineries and activities. Known for its picturesque setting in the Rogue Valley, it’s surrounded by mountains and lush forests, offering a scenic backdrop to its sprightly community.

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, a significant draw for theater enthusiasts nationwide, is one of the town’s main attractions. Held annually from February to October, it features a diverse range of productions, from classic Shakespearean plays to contemporary works. This cultural event is a cornerstone of Ashland’s identity and significantly contributes to its lively arts scene.

Ashland, a town with a vibrant creative spirit, is also home to a variety of galleries, studios, and performance spaces, all reflecting its artistic soul. Its downtown area, a charming mix of historic and contemporary, is dotted with shops, cafes, and restaurants catering to diverse tastes.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in and around Ashland. The nearby Lithia Park offers trails, gardens, and beautiful relaxing spots, while the surrounding area is excellent for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The town’s mild climate, with warm summers and moderate winters, makes it appealing for those who love urban amenities and natural beauty.

Best Place for Dinner

Chateaubriand 36

Chateaubriand 36 is an all-encompassing culinary and personal experience. The upscale restaurant, with its French-inspired menu, sophisticated wine list, and impeccable service, is truly one-of-a-kind. The warm ambiance was enchanting, and I admired the staff’s down-to-earth manner, intermingled with savior-faire.

I sat at the bar, where I am usually most comfortable dining alone or with people. For me, it’s important to embrace the wine of the region, so I ordered a bottle of Pronto from Upper Five Vineyard in the Rogue Valley—a delightful 100% Grenache.

While the unparalleled steak selection is enticing, I decided to take another route, which proved to be equally delectable. I devoured the Escargot appetizer with roasted parsley garlic butter, soaking up the sauce with the fresh crusty baguette. Having read the menu beforehand, I knew I wanted the Risotto Duxelles with wild foraged mushrooms, parmesan cheese, white truffle oil, and fresh herbs topped with Duck Confit—it was the kind of dish that made my eyes roll back in my head.

Gluten for punishment, I couldn’t skip dessert, and as full as I was, I’m glad I didn’t. The Profiteroles with Craquelin, a dessert of vanilla ice cream and brown butter crumble with warm Scharffen Berger Chocolate dusted with powdered sugar, was blissful. The humble young Chef Daniel Russell clearly has a long, successful career ahead of him.
A restaurant after my own heart, Chateaubriand sources local ingredients from local farms and producers to ensure the freshest ingredients while nurturing Ashland’s culinary tapestry — there is an obvious strong bond with and commitment to the community.

 

Downtown Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Oregon, is a historic small town near the Rogue River and the Applegate Wine Trail. Founded during the gold rush of the 1850s, Jacksonville retains much of its 19th-century character, evident in its well-preserved architecture and historic sites.
The town’s downtown area, a treasure trove of history, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It boasts a diverse array of Victorian-style buildings, each with its unique story, quaint shops, and local eateries. The Britt Festival, a summer music festival held in a picturesque outdoor amphitheater, is another jewel in Jacksonville’s crown, drawing visitors from around the region.

Best Place for Lunch or Dinner

Cowhorn Kitchen & Wine

Cowhorn Vineyards owns Cowhorn Kitchen & Wine, an intimate restaurant with a casual kick. The restaurant prides itself on providing guests with an experience that connects their food and wine to the Rogue Valley. The menu boasts a lovely array of selections showcasing the family’s estate wine and seasonal dishes for lunch and dinner.

Inside seating is purely elegant, yet we opted for patio dining for lunch. The CKW Burger with bacon, provolone cheese, and their special sauce was utterly delicious, cooked to perfection, and served on a lightly charred bun. On the lighter side, the Arugula-Fennel Salad with blueberries, dry jack, Chardonnay vinaigrette, and toasted pine nuts bursts with simple garden-fresh flavors.

 

The Best Places to Stay

The Countryman-Fox Carriage House Airbnb

If you are solo or a couple, The Countryman-Fox Carriage House Airbnb is the ideal place to stay in the town of Ashland. The studio, perched above the city, with a patio that faces the glorious mountain ranges, provides a breathtaking experience for guests. The side and front outdoor areas are wonderful for admiring the views. I sat out front, watched the sunset with a glass of wine, and saw it rise with a cup of Joe.

The tiny private abode has one king-size bed, a cozy fireplace, and a large tub and separate shower with a heated bathroom floor — I didn’t have to use the heat as it was summer, but I adore having the option for winter months.

Besides the luxurious furnishing and immaculate studio aesthetics, I can’t say enough about the brilliant location. I walked down the marvelous steep streets to shops, restaurants, coffee shops, theater, and the spectacular Lithia Park. I didn’t need to get back in my car until I was ready to leave. Host Kathy is a great communicator and goes above and beyond to ensure your stay exceeds your expectations.

The Modern Rustic River Home Airbnb at the Applegate River Retreat

The Modern Rustic River Home Airbnb on the Applegate River Retreat grounds in the heart of the Applegate Wine Trail is the best location in the Rogue Valley for wine tasting. The retreat has a Main cabin, Middle House, and Log cabin home. We stayed in the Middle House, which sleeps seven people. The main bedroom is downstairs with a king bed and private bath, and the upstairs loft has two double beds, a twin, and a private bath. The floor plan is gorgeous, with a huge living area with a fireplace and a full kitchen with bar stools.

This property is a dream in the middle of the Applegate Forest, with hiking trails on 19 acres of land, a few minutes to walk to the river, and a short drive to the wineries. In addition to the cabins, the retreat has a sauna, a game room, and a gym in a separate hut scattered among the land. The retreat is a fantastic slice of heaven where you can watch the stars and listen to the sounds of nature while sharing your space with deer prancing about the forest. Elena is always available if you have questions and will do everything, she can to ensure your stay is flawless.