Get to Know the Willamette Valley AVAs: Van Duzer Corridor
In our ongoing journey through the Willamette Valley's nested AVAs, we arrive at the Van Duzer Corridor, a region defined by its distinctive geography and exceptional winemaking potential. Let's delve into the characteristics that set the Van Duzer Corridor apart and explore its contribution to the Willamette Valley's renowned wine scene.
Van Duzer Corridor AVA
Created by an anomaly in the Coast Range that funnels winds into the Willamette Valley at approximately 2 p.m. every day, the Van Duzer Corridor provides almost ideal grape-growing conditions, resulting in full and flavorful wines. The daily breeze dries out the vine canopy after rains and decreases the fungus pressure, preventing the need for fungus spray and supporting sustainable practices. Another benefit is the improved flavor from the grapes’ wind-thickened skin, creating an abundance of tannins with bright, fruit flavors, increased aromatics, and notable acidity.
The AVA covers an impressive 35.9 square miles with 1,000 planted acres comprising 18 commercial vineyards and six wineries and tasting rooms. As with most of the Willamette Valley, Pinot Noir is the most common varietal in the region, followed by Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Featured Van Duzer Corridor AVA Wineries
Popular For: Trailblazing Winery
Van Duzer Vineyards | Dallas, OR
The oldest winery in the Van Duzer Corridor AVA, Van Duzer Vineyards was a pioneer in this wind-blown region, going against the grain to produce world-class and nuanced wines. Focusing on balanced and lively site-driven wines, Van Duzer Vineyards has become the defining producer of cool-climate Pinot Noir in the Van Duzer Corridor.
Popular For: Biodynamic Wines
Johan Vineyards | Rickreall, OR
Johan Vineyards in Rickreall, Oregon aims to be a self-sustained holistic farm system with a strong commitment to Biodynamic farming practices, utilizing native-yeast fermentation and minimal intervention in the cellar. The winery offers 15 varieties of wines and produces a diverse array of wines from their estate-grown grapes.
Popular For: Specialty Wines
Wetzel Estate | Dallas, OR
Established in 1990, Wetzel Estate is backed by four generations of winemaking tradition, beginning in Germany and culminating in Oregon. The LIVE Certified vineyard has created award-winning, limited-production wines. Visit their tasting room for samples of their Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Riesling, and Gewurztraminer, plus some limited edition specialty products, including a proprietary Gluhwein recipe.
Popular For: Low-Impact Viticulture
Left Coast Estate | Rickreall, OR
Left Coast Estate is a family-run winery focusing on ecological stewardship through winemaking. They practice low-impact viticulture and 28% of their property is preserved as ecological compensation areas with 100 acres of Oregon White Oak savanna conserved and restored. Experience the result of their efforts at their gorgeous tasting room surrounded by gardens, wildflowers, and tended vines.
Book Your Stay in the Willamette Valley
Tributary Hotel is situated in historic McMinnville, Oregon, just 25-30 minutes from the Van Duzer Corridor AVA wineries. Our boutique luxury hotel offers elegant suites and world-class hospitality, and our dedicated concierge is ready to assist with winery recommendations and reservations. Tributary is your ideal base for exploring Oregon Wine Country.
Book now to reserve your stay.