An Expedition of the Pacific Northwest and Its Wines

In the last several years, the wine industry of the Pacific Northwest has become the fastest-growing agricultural sector in the country. How fast? Consider this: the number of Washington and Oregon wineries has increased 400 percent in the last decade. Located at approximately the same latitude (46ºN) as some of the great French wine regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy, Washington and Oregon are producing many world-class wines that rival those of even the most celebrated EU wine-growing regions. However, the climates of specific Washington and Oregon wine regions differ dramatically.

Crosscut north to south by the Cascade Mountains, Washington State is more mild and lush to the west of this volcanically formed barrier than the lands to its east. This allows for great agricultural variety when it comes to wine grapes. From the bright and cheery tones of its whites (Riesling and Chardonnay), to its full, lush-bodied reds (Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet), the varied growing climates of Washington allow for a range of award-winning wines to be produced. Similarly, Oregon’s northern latitude brings long hours of summer sunshine to its more than 20,000 vineyard acres, which allows a wide variety of wine grapes to grow. In the western part of the state, occasional marine breezes breach the coastal range and help to moderate the inland-valley climate. This causes the grape-ripening process to be gradual. The combination of these conditions encourages the complex fruit flavors and nuances that have become the hallmark of Oregon-grown wines. From the aromatics of their Pinot Gris wines to the earthy and spicy aromas of their Pinot Noirs, the state is now recognized as one of the world’s most coveted wine-growing regions.
No wine experience is necessary as Wine 101 will be covered. A $30 fee, payable to the instructor at the first class, will cover the cost of wine for all sessions.

Leslee Miller is a dually certified sommelier through the International Sommelier Guild and the Court of Master Sommeliers. She is the former director of Archery Summit Winery in Oregon and was a member of the board of directors for its sister winery, Pine Ridge of Napa, California. Miller currently owns and operates Amusée, an international wine-consulting firm. Based in Minneapolis, Amusée’s services include consulting and staff training for restaurants and retail; international winery consulting; cellar procurement; commercial and residential cellar management; wine writing; corporate and private event planning; and wine, cooking, and hospitality education. Miller’s goal, first and foremost, is to make wine education accessible and “drinkable” for all levels of enthusiasts.