Sip Something Rare

Intro:
Step off the well-traveled wine path and discover something unexpected. Southern Oregon growers are embracing adventurous varietals—sparkling reds, rare whites, and Spanish varietals—all grown with care and character.

Why It’s Fun:

• Taste wines you won’t find in every tasting room
• Ideal for wine enthusiasts and curious explorers
• Visit eco-friendly, biodynamic vineyards
• Enjoy scenic drives and peaceful backroads

Featured Tasting Destinations:

1. Troon Vineyard
   📍 1475 Kubli Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97527
   Pioneers in regenerative farming, experimenting with Tannat, Vermentino, and more.
   Try: Pétillant Tannat (~$35)—bold, dry, and unique
   Tasting: Daily 11–5; guided experience $60–80
   🌐 troonvineyard.com
2. Red Lily Vineyards
   📍 11777 Hwy 238, Applegate, OR 97530
   Specializing in Spanish varietals with a crisp Albariño and savory Tempranillo.
   Try: Albariño (~$30)—bright, citrus-forward, seaside fresh
   Tasting: Daily 11–5; flights $10
   🌐 redlilyvineyards.com
3. Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden
   📍 1665 Eastside Rd, Jacksonville, OR 97530
   Specializing in Rhône whites like Marsanne and Roussanne, grown biodynamically.
   Try: Marsanne–Roussanne Blend (~$36)
   Tasting: Thu–Sun 11–4; flights $15–25
   🌐 cowhornwine.com
4. Wooldridge Creek Winery
   📍 818 Slagle Creek Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97526
   Offers palate-expanding varietals like Malbec and Barbera.
   Try: Malbec (~$30–40)
   Tasting: $10–15; check website for details
   🌐 wooldridgecreek.com
5. Plaisance Ranch
   📍 16955 Water Gap Rd, Williams, OR 97544
   A rustic estate producing Mourvèdre and Carmenère alongside vineyard-raised beef.
   Try: Mourvèdre (~$28–35)
   Tasting: Seasonal Wed–Mon; $18 flight
   🌐 plaisanceranch.com
6. Wanderlust Vineyard
   📍 1000 Kubli Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97527
   Visit for Rhône varietals and small-lot experimentation.
   Try: Viognier (~$30)—floral, rich, and expressive
   Tasting: Reservations required; visit site
   🌐 wanderlustvines.com