You know you want to travel to the hills of the Willamette Valley, but do you know when to plan your trip? We have everything you need to know about the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country. Ensure the perfect vacation during the most ideal time of year. To give you a hint: Pack along your best warmly knit sweater and a pair of hiking boots because it’s time to start planning your wine trip today!
For exclusive tips and recommendations on planning your Oregon Wine Country escape, be sure to access our Vacation Guide. Our guide is full of helpful tips that are sure to simplify your planning process, and –best of all— it’s free!
Discover the Best Time to Visit Oregon Wine Country
The verdict is in, and the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country is during harvest season! Don’t get us wrong—the valley is majestic throughout all four seasons. However, there is something special about the leaves gently turning to gold on the vine and the authenticity of the winemakers dedicated to picking ripe grapes right off the cluster.
Harvest season varies based on the weather conditions of the year, but we generally think of it as September-October. With the sun shining down, a glass of Natasha Pinot Noir, and endless views of the immaculate Willamette Valley, you are set for a splendid day in wine country.
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The Weather
September weather in the Willamette Valley is just about as perfect as it gets. With highs in the mid-70s, typically little rainfall, and foliage just starting to turn brilliant colors, you can’t ask for much more. October is slightly cooler with highs in the mid-60s, and you can almost be promised a perfect morning dew while you watch the sunrise over the vines.
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Embrace the Winemaking Process
To fully appreciate the wines of the Willamette Valley, you must start from the beginning. Harvest season is the only time of year you’ll witness the vineyard employees out in the fields, gently collecting the fruits of their labor. Knowing when to harvest their grapes is the single most crucial decision a winemaker will make all year. Want to join in on the action? Ask about volunteering at a local winery.
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Oregon’s Fall Activities
The changing season brings so many exciting adventures to your fall getaway. Explore Oregon’s truffle season by hunting for the decadent mushrooms of the Northwest. The Oregon White Truffle traditionally grows within the root systems of Douglas firs and is carefully harvested in the fall. Get in on all the action during the Oregon Truffle Festival.
Hike through the region’s best fall foliage from Mount Pisgah to Proxy Falls. The Willamette National Forest boasts 1,700 miles of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Discover your enchanted fall forest this season.
Stay in the Comforts of Youngberg Hill
A trip to the Willamette Valley would not be complete without a stay at Youngberg Hill. Book your stay in the second-floor, corner room Wadenswil Suite. The room boasts a gas fireplace, a queen-size bed, a two-person double shower, and stunning views of the vineyard and western forest.
Add a Winemaker Tour and Tasting package to your stay and fully immerse yourself into the harvest season. Follow in the footsteps of Wayne Bailey as he takes you through the multifaceted winemaking process. We cannot wait to welcome you to the Willamette Valley!
