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Hood River.......Wine Country?
The Hood River Valley has long been known for outstanding fruit orchards and is one of the major suppliers of pears and apples in the region. However, there is another fruit on the rise in the Valley…….grapes. Many local farmers have quietly been planting vineyards over the last 15 years or so and now are beginning to reap the rewards. Local fruit stands are being replaced by tasting rooms and fruit bins with wine barrels.
The same soil quality that has produced such great tasting apples and pears is now resulting in some fantastic wines. The area's wine reputation is spreading and wine makers from regions such as Walla Walla and the Willamette Valley are beginning to purchase grapes from Hood River growers. The Cathedral Ridge Winery was even labeled Oregon Winery of the Year in 2007 by Wine Press Northwest.
It would seem that the local wine merchants are on to something based on the regular stream of tasters coming and going on any given weekend from spring thru fall. The Hood River area is already steeped in tourism thanks to windsurfing and a host of other outdoor activities as well as the fact that the Valley is recognized for its numerous fresh produce stands. All of this means a solid tourism infrastructure for new vineyards and winemakers.
Grape types vary here and one can find zinfandel, pino gris, chardonnay, and several other strains of fruit. What is not grown is commonly purchased and blended by the local wine makers to produce some unique and flavorful wine.
All in all, a trip to Hood River is not complete without at least a sampling of some of the best wine to be had anywhere.
For more information about wine in Hood River Click Here.
Click Here for a list of Vineyards and a Map.