Get to Know the Willamette Valley AVAs: Lower Long Tom

Established in November 2021, the Lower Long Tom American Viticultural Area (AVA) is one of the newest AVAs nested within the Willamette Valley. Situated to the west of the Lower Long Tom Watershed between Corvallis and Eugene, this AVA produces wines with a diverse palette. In this continuation of our series exploring the 11 AVAs within the Willamette Valley AVA, we’re introducing you to the Lower Long Tom AVA.

Lower Long Tom AVA

As with most of the Willamette Valley AVAs, Pinot Noir is the predominant grape of the region followed by Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc. Consisting of just 12 wineries and 24 vineyards, the Lower Long Tom AVA covers 25,000 sprawling acres over a series of rolling hills.

The Lower Long Tom AVA is distinguished by its predominant soil type, Bellpine, well-draining clay-loams formed from up-lifted ancient marine sediments, primarily sandstone. The higher elevations of the Coast Range to the west of the region form a weather shield that prevents too much rainfall, while the breezes flowing in from the coast decrease the disease pressure during the growing season. This combination results in consistent fruit maturity, even amongst finicky varietals.

Featured Lower Long Tom Wineries

Popular For: Regenerative Agriculture

Antiquum Farm | Junction City, OR

Antiquum Farm is the birthplace of grazing-based viticulture, and their farm operates a 100% self-sustaining system through rotational grazing, rather than using fertilizers or compost. Taste their unique and complex wines during a tasting or tours available at their farm cottage and garden. Their experiences shift with the seasons, meaning you’ll be sure to have a unique and authentic experience at the farm.

Grape fields at Antiquum Farm winery in Junction City, Oregon.

Popular For: French Oak Barrel Wine

Benton-Lane | Monroe, OR

Founded in 1988, Benton-Lane is situated on a 317-acre wooded estate and features a cozy and secluded tasting room. A family-owned winery, Benton-Lane focuses on farming with organic and biodynamic practices. Notably, their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are aged for 10 to 15 months in 100% French oak barrels, resulting in subtle and spicy notes with a silky texture.

Grape fields at Benton-Lane winery in Monroe, Oregon.

Popular For: Estate-Grown Wines

Five Fourteen Vineyards | Junction City, OR

Named after the owners’ first date, you’ll be able to taste the love in every glass as you sample estate-grown wines at Five Fourteen Vineyards in Junction City. Perched on a slope surrounded by rolling views of the Coburg Hills, you can take in pastoral views during their appointment-only tastings. This LIVE certified vineyard prides itself on meticulous farming and offers pours of Pinot Noir and a wide variety of white wines.

A couple holding hands walking next to rows of grapevines in a field.

Popular For: Tasting Room Views

Walnut Ridge Vineyard | Junction City, OR

Featuring a stunning French colonial-style tasting room with 360-degree views of the surrounding vines, farmland, hills, and forests, Walnut Ridge Vineyard is a family-owned and operated winery in Junction City, Oregon. LIVE certified and Salmon-Safe, Walnut Ridge offers a selection of Pinot Noir, Gamay Noir, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc.

Patio with tables, chairs, and umbrella awnings at Walnut Ridge Vineyard in Junction City, Oregon.

Book Your Stay in the Willamette Valley

Conveniently located within the Willamette Valley, Tributary Hotel is nestled in the heart of historic McMinnville, Oregon and offers a boutique hotel experience with world-class hospitality and luxury suites. Tributary is your ideal base for exploring Oregon Wine Country.

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