With the end of July just around the corner, it’s time for Pinot Noir lovers to rejoice!  The 27th annual International Pinot Noir Celebration is upon us, from July 26th-28th at Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon.  The three day event that makes up the International Pinot Noir Celebration, or IPNC for short, is a must-do event for new Pinot Noir lovers or master winemakers alike.  Join a variety of people from across the globe, including winemakers, northwest chefs, media, and other wine lovers as you explore the intricacies of Pinot Noir wines, savor unforgettable meals, and learn and celebrate with the biggest stars of the wine world.  Throughout your time at the International Pinot Noir Celebration, you’ll have a chance to taste Pinot Noir from Grand Cru Burgundy, Oregon, New Zealand, Australia, California, and other areas around the globe.  But this event is about more than just tasting great wines.  Here, you’ll have the chance to walk through Oregon vineyards with the grower who planted them, and unwind in the picturesque wine country of Willamette Valley, Oregon.  This surely is one of the most enjoyable weekends for wine lovers from all walks of life. Youngberg Hill Vineyards is located just 15 short minutes away from Linfield College and the IPNC venue, making this your perfect opportunity to stop in and tour one of Oregon’s premier wine country estates.

Purchase a full weekend pass to the International Pinot Noir Celebration, and you’ll have the chance to meet the winemakers and taste the wines from 70 Featured Wineries, as well as enjoy fresh farm to table cuisine from 60 of the Northwest’s most esteemed chefs. Enjoy the numerous weekend seminars, including the Grand Seminar, “The Architecture of Pinot Noir,” moderated by Terry Theise, Eric Asimov, and a hand-picked panel of international winemakers.  You’ll also be able to participate in the IPNC’s University of Pinot; a series of classes and events including “Oregon Wine Pioneers and Beyond” or “Three Oregon AVA’s Under the Microscope“.  When you’re ready for your vineyard tour, jump on a tour bus and head to your secret vineyard location, where you will enjoy a guided stroll through the vineyard,  and a hands-on demonstration where you learn how each winemaker develops their fruit to produce the perfect, balanced wine.  Unfortunately, for 2013 tickets for the Full Weekend and Salmon Bake are now sold out, but some tickets remain for the Sunday Passport to Pinot!  If you are planning ahead, the 2014 IPNC will be held July 25-27, and tickets will be available August.