The next big wine country: Southern Oregon

Why we love it: Exciting wines, no crowds, and inexpensive tasting fees.

Go now: Arm yourself with a map from the Southern Oregon Wineries Association and hit the road.

The inside scoop: Head to the smallest, newest wine region here―Applegate Valley (part of the larger Rogue Valley)― to get your palate calibrated. Abacela, Troon, and Schmidt Family Vineyards are setting the bar high.

In Umpqua, the northern, oldest wine valley, check out Brandborg Vineyard & Winery and Spangler Vineyards. Ditch your car in historic Jacksonville, of Britt music fest fame, then wander the cluster of tasting rooms, including Quady North.

Our 3 favorite sips:

• Foris Pinot Gris 2008 (Rogue Valley; $14).
• Brandborg “Love Puppets” Pinot Noir 2006 (Umpqua Valley; $30).
• Abacela South Face Block Reserve Syrah 2005 (Southern Oregon; $45).

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