Southern Oregon Gains New Wine Appellation

The federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau has recognized Elkton as Oregon’s newest American Viticultural Area (“AVA”). The decision allows local winegrowers to label their wines with the “Elkton Oregon” appellation.

The Elkton AVA contains nearly 75,000 acres and is located in Douglas County about 50 miles southwest of Eugene. This area is about 30 miles from the Pacific Ocean in a canyon carved by the Umpqua River. The Elkton AVA is wholly contained within the larger Umpqua Valley AVA, which is turn in part of the Southern Oregon AVA.

The Elkton area is separated from the rest of the Umpqua Valley by a low ridge of hills that trap the incoming ocean air. This distinctive geography enables Elkton winegrowers to cultivate high quality pinot noir and other cool climate grape varietals.

Congratulations to the winegrowers of Elkton, Oregon!