Every May, Oregon Wine Month invites wine lovers to raise a glass to one of the most diverse and exciting wine regions in the country. While the Willamette Valley often steals the spotlight, those in the know are heading south, to Rogue Valley Wine Country, where innovation, scenery, and world-class wines meet.

At the heart of it all is Medford, Oregon - the perfect home base for exploring Southern Oregon’s vineyards, tasting rooms, and vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious sipper, Oregon Wine Month is the ideal time to discover why the Rogue Valley is one of Oregon’s most exciting (and underrated) wine regions.

Stretching from the Umpqua border to the California state line, the Rogue Valley AVA is one of Oregon’s most geographically and climatically diverse wine regions, and that’s exactly what makes it special.

Diversity You Can Taste

Thanks to dramatic elevation changes, varied soils, and a warmer, drier climate than much of Oregon, the Rogue Valley excels at producing a wide range of varietals. You’ll find everything from elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to bold Syrah, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec... often within the same day of tasting.

Boutique Wineries & Personal Experiences

Unlike more crowded wine regions, Rogue Valley wineries are known for their approachable, laid-back atmosphere. Many are family-owned and winemaker-led, meaning you’re just as likely to chat with the person who grew the grapes as you are to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted flight.

Three Distinct Sub-AVAs

The Rogue Valley is made up of three sub-appellations, each with its own personality:

• Applegate Valley AVA – Known for warm days, cool nights, and Rhône-style wines
• Illinois Valley AVA – Smaller and emerging, with unique microclimates
• Bear Creek Valley AVA – Home to Medford, offering easy access and a wide variety of wineries

This diversity makes the Rogue Valley a dream destination for wine exploration and an exciting place to return to again and again.

Oregon Wine Month is a full sensory experience. Here are some ways to make the most of your visit:

Create Your Own Wine Trail

Use Medford as your hub and explore nearby wine regions like Jacksonville, Applegate Valley, and Gold Hill, all within easy driving distance. Many wineries offer special May tastings, events, and releases.

Pair Wine with Local Flavor

Southern Oregon’s farm-to-table dining scene pairs perfectly with local wines. Enjoy wine-forward menus, local cheeses, and seasonal ingredients at Medford-area restaurants.

Visit Tasting Rooms & Urban Wineries

Don’t want to venture far? Medford’s tasting rooms and urban wineries offer an easy way to sample Rogue Valley wines without leaving town.

Look for Special Events

Spring often brings winery dinners, vineyard walks, live music, and limited-release wines in celebration of Oregon Wine Month. Check local event calendars while planning your trip.

Balance Tasting with Adventure

Between sips, explore Southern Oregon’s natural beauty. Hike nearby trails, stroll historic Jacksonville, or raft the Rogue River. It’s all part of what makes this region so special.

With its central location, welcoming accommodations, and easy access to dozens of wineries, Medford is the ideal launchpad for exploring Rogue Valley Wine Country. Oregon Wine Month is the perfect excuse to discover a region where world-class wine meets genuine hospitality and unforgettable scenery.

This May, skip the crowds, savor something new, and experience why the Rogue Valley is Oregon wine’s best-kept secret.

Cheers to Oregon Wine Month, and cheers to discovering Southern Oregon.

While there are dozens of outstanding wineries throughout the region, these standout stops offer a great introduction to Rogue Valley Wine Country: