Discover Southern Oregon’s Historic Gem: Valley View Winery

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Where Wine and Agriculture Thrive Together

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Rogue Valley near Jacksonville, Oregon, you'll find Valley View Winery to not only experience exceptional wines, but also the full story of where they begin—from earth to bottle. As Southern Oregon’s first winery, Valley View’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the land, climate, and rich agricultural traditions that make this region a top destination for wine lovers seeking authentic southern Oregon wine tours and the best southern Oregon wineries.

An Agricultural Legacy Born in the 1850s

The roots of Valley View Winery trace back to the Gold Rush era, when Swiss-born horticulturist Peter Britt established his vineyard in 1854. Cultivating European grape varieties (Vitis vinifera) on a 15-acre plot, Britt was a pioneer in not just winemaking, but also in understanding the local ground--the intricate combination of soil, climate, and vineyard management that shapes every bottle. His grapevines, carefully hand-harvested to maximize flavor and balance were the starting point for Oregon’s oldest wine label, Valley View.

By the late 19th century, Britt’s success inspired neighboring vineyards, and eventually southern Oregon became a hub for grape growing and agriculture. Even when faced with challenges such as early Prohibition laws, the vineyard traditions persisted, shaping a region celebrated today for its agricultural resilience.

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From Grape to Glass: Winemaking and Vineyard Practices

The Grape Harvest

Grape harvest in Southern Oregon typically takes place from late August through October, when the fruit reaches optimal ripeness depending on weather patterns and variety. This crucial step is guided by daily monitoring of sugar, acid, and tannin levels to ensure the highest wine quality. Valley View Winery, like many on-site producers, exclusively harvests its own grapes, so every bottle truly reflects the land.

Each grape variety brings distinct characteristics to the final wine. Some major grape varieties you'll find at Valley View Winery include:

• Pinot Noir: Elegant and aromatic with cherry, spice, and earthy flavors—Oregon’s signature.
• Syrah: Known for its deep color, peppery aromas, and bold fruit flavors. (I bought this as a gift and it was a hit!)
• Viognier: Aromatic white with floral and stone fruit notes.
• Tempranillo: Robust texture and savory, spicy complexity.
• Chardonnay: Crisp apple, citrus, and creamy undertones.

Vineyard Weather and Growing Conditions

Southern Oregon’s geography is characterized by 170 microclimates and varied soils from marine sedimentary to volcanic which creates ideal conditions for growing a wide range of grapes. The region’s warm, sunny days and cool nights help grapes develop balanced acidity and flavor complexity, while the rain shadow effect from nearby coastal mountains protects the vineyards from excessive rainfall. This climate supports sustainable farming practices, with many vineyards embracing eco-friendly, low-intervention agriculture.

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How Is Wine Made, Step by Step?

Understanding winemaking deepens your appreciation for every glass. The process involves adding live bacteria to grape juice to create something delicious which can be so fascinating! Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process at Valley View Winery and other top southern Oregon wine estates:

1. Harvesting: Grapes are handpicked at peak ripeness to preserve balance and flavor.
2. Crushing & Destemming: Fruit is gently crushed and separated from stems; varietal and vintage influence this decision.
3. Fermentation: Yeast (wild or added) converts sugars into alcohol, producing character and aromas. Red grapes ferment with skins for color/tannins, while whites are pressed before fermentation.
4. Pressing: Solids are removed, and juice clarity is increased.
5. Secondary Fermentation/Aging: Some wines undergo malolactic fermentation for a smooth mouthfeel; others are aged in oak or stainless steel for complexity and flavor development.
6. Clarification: Finings or filtration remove sediment.
7. Bottling: The finished wine is bottled and often aged further before release.

How Long Does It Take for Grapes to Turn into Wine?

1. Primary fermentation: 5–14 days, depending on wine style and temperature.
2. Secondary fermentation/aging: Several weeks to several months, especially for reds or oak-aged wines.
3. From harvest to bottling: Anywhere from a few weeks for young whites to over a year for structured reds.

What Wine Is Southern Oregon Known For?

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Southern Oregon is celebrated for both classic and eclectic varietals. The region is particularly renowned for:

• Pinot Noir – Delicate, earthy reds prized for finesse.
• Syrah – Bold, spicy, and fruit-forward.
• Tempranillo – Complex reds with savory depth.
• Viognier and Chardonnay – Expressive, floral whites.
• Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – Structured, age-worthy reds.

How Many Wineries Are There in Southern Oregon?

Southern Oregon boasts more than 150 wineries, ranging from historic estates to artisan producers. The region is home to five distinct appellations (AVAs): Applegate Valley, Elkton Oregon, Red Hill Douglas County, Rogue Valley, and Umpqua Valley.

Why Visit Valley View Winery?

• Agritourism at Its Best: Experience the full farm-to-glass process, where grapes are grown, harvested, and made into award-winning wines right on the property.
• Immersive Tours: Enjoy southern Oregon wine tours that highlight the agricultural journey, from vineyard walks to cellar visits and tastings.
• Stunning Scenery: Rolling hills, lush vines, and a sustainable approach to farming make this an inspiring place for wine and nature lovers.
• Event Destination: Ideal for weddings, picnics, and group visits, with ample amenities.

Planning Your Wine Adventure at Valley View Winery 

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Valley View Winery is located at 1000 Upper Applegate Road, Jacksonville with the tasting room being open dailty from 11 AM – 5 PM. The tasting is $5, but will be refunded with any wine purchase. This location is wheelchair accessible, has picnic areas, and bus/RV parking. Don't forget to check out their signature labels: Anna Maria, Tempranillo, Syrah, Viognier, and Chardonnay

For those searching for the best southern Oregon wineries and truly authentic southern oregon wine tours, Valley View Winery offers a legacy of agricultural excellence and pioneering spirit. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a deeper dive into the region’s viticulture, this is a must-visit stop on the Southern Oregon wine trail.

Raise a glass to the land, history, and craftsmanship that define Southern Oregon’s wine country—where every bottle is a celebration of agricultural heritage and innovation.

*If you are interested in staying at Valley View Winery in your RV/camper, make sure to have your Harvest Host Membership ready!