Applegate Valley Itinerary

Just south of Grant's Pass, Oregon, Applegate Valley is a lush, green oasis of farms and vineyards. For Wine Country visitors willing stray off the beaten path, there are a number of intriguing discoveries—from artisan food purveyors to mom-and-pop wineries—that won't stay hidden for long.

Starting in Grant's Pass, once the fly-fishing resort-of-choice for many of Hollywood's leading men, the trip south on Route 238 is a relaxing, idyllic saunter into the lush Applegate Valley. You'll have to avoid the temptation to stop every few miles at farmstands, orchards and vineyards lining the road for miles—especially in late summer when blackberries and pears are in season.

But grapes are becoming more and more prevalent. There are nearly 300 acres of grapevines in this distinct AVA, but with only a handful are even large enough to boast tasting rooms or visitor facilities. And even then, they're mostly rustic operations with a few picnic tables and a shed.

The best time to visit is between May and September when most of the wineries are open to the public. After the harvest, most are open by appointment only, so call ahead if you plan to visit.

Troon
Dick Troon, who founded this popular local winery, was one of the original Applegate Valley vintners, planting his first grapes in 1972—practically ancient history in these parts. Known for his wine, as well as his quirky personality and wood carvings, Troon recently sold the winery to the Martin family who plan to build a new tasting room and expand the facilities. Winemaker Herb Quady, who grew up in the winemaking business, was former assistant winemaker at Bonny Doon, in Santa Cruz, California. Though some Troon wines can veer perilously toward sweet (as is the case with their quaffable but potent Druid Fluid, made with a blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Cabernet!) they're creative, thought-provoking wines that are worth watching out for. 1475 Kubli Road, Grants Pass, 541 846 9900 (open by appointment only after mid-September, but re-opens several weekends in the fall and for Thanksgiving weekend. Call ahead for tasting.)

Devitt
Blink and you'll blast by this up-and-coming winery by the side of the road. Wines include Pinot Gris, Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and a unique Shiraz Rose called "When Pigs Fly". Call ahead for tasting: 11412 Highway 238, Jacksonville; 541-899-7511.

Longsword
Nearly everyone we met was abuzz about this tiny winery that produces nothing but Chardonnay. The winery is owned by an Indiana couple who's current releases include a sparkling Chardonnay. With a tasting room that's little more than a patio, they're still very much in development, but the wines show plenty of promise. Steel fermented, they're crisp and full of citrus and minerality. Open through Halloween, Wednesday through Sunday 11am to 5pm. 8555 SR-238, Jacksonville, (541) 899-1746

Academy of Wine
This micro-winery is not open to the general public, but is a local favorite gaining lots of national attention for its Pinot Noir. Headed by a former professor who hand prunes many of his own vines, Academy of wine produces only about 2,000 cases a year, but has some great Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon at rock bottom prices—rare in this area. Owner Barney Smith made news by spearheading a campaign to give the Applegate Valley its own AVA—which happened in 2001. Smith sometimes gives personal tours of the vineyards to fans.

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