Not far from Oregon’s southern border, two mountain ranges converge: the Cascades, a strand of volcanic peaks 700 miles long; and the Siskiyous, a lower, much older range with some of the most varied topography in the state. Where they meet, a mosaic of soil and microclimates has created one of Oregon’s most unique wine regions: the Rogue Valley.
With easy access by air and road, plenty of places to stay, and a thriving culinary scene — including the annual Savor Southern Oregon festival in June — Medford is the perfect home base for experiencing Rogue Valley wine. Here’s what to know as you plan your next trip to this laid-back and approachable wine region.
Get to Know Rogue Valley Wines
Spanning almost 1,800 square miles with Medford near its center, the Rogue Valley is one of Oregon’s most geographically and climatically diverse wine regions. This year the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area celebrates its 25th anniversary, but people have been growing wine grapes here for over a century. More than 70 different grape varieties thrive in its distinctive array of soil and microclimates, creating a rainbow of inspiration for the 85+ winemakers working in the region — and leaving visitors spoiled for choice.
Red-wine lovers will find plenty to choose from, including syrah, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, grenache, tempranillo and pinot noir. Those who prefer crisp whites can choose from still and sparkling versions of chardonnay, pinot gris, viognier, and even unusual grapes like albariño and gewürztraminer. Styles likewise vary dramatically, from straightforward classics to quirky, experimental natural wines.
Because the region is so large, you’ll need a car to visit many of the producers. Want to skip the drive? Head to Savor Southern Oregon, an annual two-day celebration of Rogue Valley wine held June 12-13 in 2026. You’ll get the opportunity to taste wines from more than 50 wineries across the Rogue Valley in one place, plus culinary experiences, reserve tastings, the ability to purchase bottles and much more.
Wine Tasting in Medford
As the largest city in the Rogue Valley, Medford is a perfect launching pad for experiencing what makes the region so unique. In fact, you can happily while away a day or two visiting tasting rooms without ever leaving city limits.
It’s hard to believe you’re in a city when you’re overlooking rolling pastures from the porch of Dunbar Farms’ tasting room. This multigenerational farm grows organic produce and hay alongside award-winning Bordeaux-style wines made from some of the oldest grape plantings in the valley. With a hearty menu of sandwiches and pizza, this is also a great spot for lunch. Then head to nearby RoxyAnn Winery and grab a seat on the patio or inside a historic barn refurbished into a modern tasting room. RoxyAnn is famous for its claret — a blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot — as well as its award-winning pinot gris. Afterward, stroll along paths near nearby Lazy Creek.
Named after a unique soil series in the Rogue Valley, Padigan (formerly known as 2Hawk) offers glasses, flights and bottles from a tasting room overlooking a 26-acre estate vineyard. Pair your wines with grilled cheese sandwiches, fig-and-bacon flatbreads, or a slice of Basque cheesecake.
Visiting with kids? Take the crew to Dos Mariposas, where kids can drink lavender lemonade in the sandbox while their parents sample estate cabernet, chardonnay and chenin blanc, plus ciders inspired by Medford’s orcharding history.
If you’re on the hunt for an exceptional hospitality experience, head for nearby DANCIN Vineyards, a family-owned vineyard helmed by a team with Michelin-star experience. Inspired by Italian and Burgundian styles, these graceful, light-footed wines showcase cool-climate varieties like pinot noir and chardonnay, as well as richer pours of barbera, nebbiolo and zinfandel. Vineyard views and a full food menu (including a seasonal weekend brunch) complete the experience.
How to Eat, Stay, and Fly Wine Home
Start your day at one of Medford’s many brunch spots. Tartine Brunch Club specializes in Mexican breakfast classics like chilaquiles and breakfast burritos plus waffles, crepes and other sweet treats. Biscuits and gravy is a local fave at Over Easy Southern Oregon.
For dinner, fine-dining restaurant Decant serves beautiful local ingredients in a style informed by the owners’ Californian and Italian roots. Elements Tapas channels Spain with paella, garlic-saffron prawns and blistered padròn peppers. Or make a reservation at Butterfly Club, a 1920s-style speakeasy hidden inside a barbershop serving classic cocktails and steakhouse favorites. Afterward, lay your head at one of Medford’s many varied lodging options.
Ten major metro areas across the west have direct air service to Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, Southern Oregon’s only major airport. Its manageable size means you can easily go from tarmac to tasting rooms in 30 minutes. Alaska Airlines passengers can check a case of Oregon wine at no cost through the Oregon Wine Flies Free program, making it easier than ever to bring a little piece of the Rogue Valley home with you.
