July 30, 2004, Newsletter Issue #12: Romantic Oregon Wine Country

Tip of the Week

Oregon produces equal amounts of reds and whites, including beautiful chardonnays, crisp ice wines, classic cabernets and gorgeous ruby marachel foche; but if you’re looking for a splendid pinot noir, pinot blanc, or pinot gris, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better anywhere on earth than those grown and bottled in Oregon. Plus, with more than 250 wineries, 40 varietals, and hundreds of millions of dollars worth of wine production each year, you can be sure of wonderful tastings up and down the valley. If you’re visiting over Thanksgiving or Memorial Day weekends, there are additional free winery tours and samplings available.

Check out the rich pinot noirs at Sokol Blosser or Ponzi vineyards. Have a sip of peppery Adelsheim or Oak Knoll pinot gris. And while you’re there, indulge in one of the many fabulous bistros and restaurants specializing in gourmet snacks and lavish, wine-based meals. I used to cook at a few of the local restaurants, so I won’t mention my favorites; but I will say that the quality of wine and cuisine relative to price puts many other states’ establishments to shame. The fruits, nuts, cheeses, veggies and, of course, seafood, are superb; and, did I mention, there is no sales tax in Oregon--on anything!

There are all manner of Victorian bed and breakfasts available, not to mention numerous chain hotels. Or stay at the Flying M Ranch in Yamhill, or at McMenamin’s Hotel Oregon in McMinnville. Both are quaint and charming and offer great dining and potables. the Flying M is something of a tradition in Oregon wine country, and you just can’t go wrong with any of the McMenamin brothers’ unique establishments. For more info about them, check out www.mcmenamins.com, and for reservations and information on all the wineries, events and accommodations in the Willamette Valley, go to www.yamhillwine.com.stay.html

As always, if you know of any great honeymoon spots or have questions about Oregon wine country--or any other destination--drop me a line at the honeymoon guru site at lifetips.com. Meanwhile, I’ll be working on up-close and personal reports of honeymoon trips to Marin and Sonoma counties in Northern California.

Happy planning!

Yours for TheBigDay,

Jill

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