Oregon – Impassioned Winemaking in the Willamette Valley

Andreas Wetzel of Wetzel Estate Winery takes Wine Across America on a journey to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Originally from Alaska, Andreas built his winery from the ground up, championing sustainable farming and leading efforts to establish the Van Duzer AVA. He shares how the region’s maritime influence shapes his wines, from a 100% Chardonnay to a bold Pinot Noir Reserve. Plus, we explore ideal pairings for Pinot Gris, Riesling, and more.

Did you know?

• Though grapes were first planted in 1847, modern Oregon winemaking started in the 1960s with the first Pinot Noir vines planted in the Willamette Valley
• Oregon ranks fourth in wine production in the country
• Oregon’s wine industry has grown from just a handful of wineries in the 1970s to over 1,000 today
• Oregon is world-famous for Pinot Noir. The state’s cool climate, especially in the Willamette Valley, makes it one of the best places outside of Burgundy, France, to grow the grape.