Umpqua Valley Wine History
The Umpqua Valley’s wine-growing history dates back to the 1880s when German immigrants who had worked for the Beringer Bros. planted the first wine grape vineyard.
Post-Prohibition, Richard Sommer established HillCrest Vineyard near Roseburg in 1961. He was the first to plant and bottle Pinot Noir in Oregon despite being told by his UC Davis cohorts that it was impossible to successfully grow wine grapes in Oregon. During the 1970s, new wineries opened, including Henry Estate Winery and Girardet.
Today the Umpqua Valley appellation continues to evolve and now has over 30 wineries making over 40 varieties into some of America’s most distinctive wines. Everyday more winemakers discover the area, bringing with them a passion for innovation and world-class wine. The Umpqua Valley appellation became official in 1984.
Our History
New vineyard owners are expanding the Umpqua’s grape list to include other international favorites. These newcomers moved from other states to establish vineyards that specialize in Syrah, Tempranillo, and Grenache.
Abacela Winery and Vineyard in the Umpqua Valley of Oregon. Larger vineyards ranging from 100 – 200 acres are planted in the Umpqua Valley, bringing Umpqua into its large vineyard era. Historically, the Umpqua Valley was a region of small vineyard plots ranging from 5 to 30 acres.
Steve Reustle of Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards plants and produces first commercial Grüner Veltliner.
Abacela plants the first Albariño vines in the Pacific Northwest and in 2001 produced its first Albariño wine. Abacela is also considered to have pioneered this variety in America.
Our Organization
The Umpqua Valley Winegrowers Association is a non-profit member organization dedicated to promoting the wineries and vineyards located in Douglas County, Oregon, in the southwest part of the state. We work collaboratively to produce experiences and events that demonstrate the quality and diverse variety of wines made in our appellation.