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Willamette Valley, carved by the graceful Willamette River, is rich in fertile soil that produces a lush green landscape seasonally embroidered by dynamic color. It is quintessential Oregon where visitors can find farmer's markets and roadside stands dotting the countryside, historic covered bridges, small farming towns that offer unique art, galleries, wine tasting shops and local personalities that keep visitors returning year-round.
Destination Northwest's focus in its northern section of the valley are the prospering wineries. The soil in this region is ideal for grapes, especially the pinot noir, pinot gris, chardonnay and riesling varietals. This picturesque region is also famous for its production of fruits, nuts and vegetables. You will discover a majority of the wineries along Hwy 99 West between McMinnville and Newberg. Rolling hills are blanketed with vineyards and wineries that welcome visitors with tasting rooms, while smaller winemakers offer many of their wines at The Tasting Room located near Carlton.
Numerous small towns have capitalized on the successful Willamette Valley wine industry. Newberg, located in the northern tip of the wine region is the most popular town offering several good restaurants and inns. Just to the southwest, Dundee has been recognized as the culinary center of northern Oregon. Another good stop along the route is Carlton where small shops, quaint art galleries and several tasting rooms and cellars can be found. Carlton's 19th-century stone and brick buildings provide a pleasant small town setting while welcoming locals make visitors feel right at home.
McMinnville is a good central location for touring the Willamette wine region. The town is a vibrant collection of wine shops, boutiques, notable restaurants and inns. From June to September an open-air Farmer's Market is held on Thursday afternoons where local artisans and produce growers offer their treasures.
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