It's no secret that Washington has become the second-largest wine producer in the United States.  And as the fastest-growing producer as well, Washington conceivably could pass up its number-one competitor, California. 

Known for its world class windsurfing, breathtaking scenery and bountiful orchards, the Columbia River Gorge has another, growing, claim to fame--wine.  As the only sea-level passage through the Cascade mountain range, the Columbia River provides a unique environment in which to grow wine grapes.  Beginning at the Gorge, the cool, damp weather of western Oregon and Washington disappears, becoming progressively warmer and drier as you travel east toward the Columbia Valley AVA.  

With a long dry growing season, varied elevations resulting from geologic changes over the millennia and the river's moderating influence, the gorge is home to a number of microclimates capable of producing quality wine grapes from more than two dozen varietals.  The Columbia Gorge AVA is the focus of our wine tours because of its proximity to Portland and Vancouver.

Our Columbia Gorge AVA Tour typically includes the wineries of Cathedral Ridge Winery, Hood River Vineyards, Mt. Hood Winery and Pheasant Valley Vineyards with possible other inclusions such as Maryhill Winery, Cascade Cliffs, Marshal's , and others.