Brandborg Vineyard & Winery

Terry and Sue Brandborg are the modern pioneers of Elkton, the cool, coast-influenced far corner of the Umpqua Valley that earned its own AVA in 2013 largely on the strength of what Brandborg Vineyard and Winery proved could grow there: taut, aromatic Pinot Noir, Riesling and Gewurztraminer that drink more like the far north than Southern Oregon.

The tasting room on Elkton's main road is the anchor stop of the little river town's wine cluster, and the whites alone justify the detour off Interstate 5. Oregon tasting rooms tend to be small and personal, and many close early in the week. Confirm current hours, tasting fees and reservation policies with the winery before you go.