A Guide to Ashland vs. Medford Wineries: Southern Oregon's Wine Scene
Southern Oregon is a wine lover's paradise, and when it comes to tasting rooms, Ashland and Medford each offer their own unique vibe. Whether you're seeking the artistic flair of Ashland or the urban cool of Medford, this guide will help you explore some of the standout wineries in both cities, including what to expect from key varietals like Syrah, Malbec, Tempranillo, Sauvignon Blanc, and the classic Pinot Noir.
Downtown Ashland Wineries: Creativity Meets Bold Flavors
Ashland's wine scene has 7 Wineries. They range from sophisticated to urban to napa style. There is something for everyone in ashland! The best part - the wine is pretty solid!
Kid Friendly
Dog Friendly
Cool Vibe
Walkable
Featured Ashland Tasting Rooms
1. Weisinger Family Winery
Located just a short drive from downtown Ashland, Weisinger Family Winery offers an inviting atmosphere where tradition meets innovation. Known for their Syrah and Pinot Noir, Weisinger’s small-lot, handcrafted wines are a perfect introduction to Ashland’s laid-back but high-quality wine scene. Enjoy a peaceful, scenic tasting room while sampling their bold reds.
2. Irvine & Roberts Vineyards
If you're a fan of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Irvine & Roberts is a must-visit. Located just outside of downtown, their elegant tasting room features sweeping views of the surrounding hills and a top-tier wine selection. Known for their dedication to cool-climate wines, Irvine & Roberts is where Ashland's sophistication shines.
3. Resistance Wine Company
Resistance Wine Company is the rebel in Ashland’s lineup. Located at 322 Pioneer Street, the tasting room brings an edgy, artistic flair to wine tasting, featuring bold wines like their 2018 Syrah, a complex wine with black cherry and pepper, and their vibrant Sauvignon Blanc. The tasting experience here is hands-on, owner-led, and filled with lively conversation and education. Kids, well behaved dogs and ill-tempered sea bass welcome.
4. Dana Campbell Vineyards
Nestled on a hill just outside of downtown, Dana Campbell offers breathtaking views and a range of wines to explore. Their Malbec and Tempranillo are some of the standouts, and the outdoor seating is perfect for a laid-back tasting experience. It’s a great spot for those seeking wines with depth and complexity in a more relaxed setting.
Medford Wineries: Rural Vibes and views with Wine Variety
1. Padigan Vineyards
Padigan Vineyards is a hidden gem in Medford’s wine scene, known for their high-quality Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec. Their commitment to sustainable farming and their attention to detail in every bottle make them a standout among Medford wineries.
2. Eliana Wines
Eliana Wines combines small-lot production with big flavor. Located on the outskirts of Medford, Eliana is known for its rich, fruit-forward Tempranillo and well-balanced Pinot Noir. The tasting room is intimate and welcoming, perfect for an afternoon escape.
3. Sound & Vision Wine
A newer addition to Medford's downtown scene, Sound & Vision offers a hip, modern take on wine tasting. Known for their innovative approach to traditional varietals like Syrah and Malbec, this is where Medford’s urban chic and wine experimentation meet.
4. The Urban Cork
The Urban Cork offers a tasting room that doubles as a gallery for Southern Oregon wines. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of wines from various local producers, with standout bottles of Tempranillo, Grenache, and Viognier. The Urban Cork’s relaxed, eclectic vibe is perfect for those looking to sample a diverse array of wines in one place.
Comparing Ashland and Medford Wine Scenes
Ashland: Where Art Meets Wine
- Atmosphere: Ashland tasting rooms like Resistance Wine and Dana Campbell are known for their artistic and scenic appeal, often set in tranquil environments with breathtaking views of the Rogue Valley. The creative energy of the town is reflected in its wines—bold, thoughtful, and handcrafted.
- Key Wines: Expect a focus on Syrah, Malbec, and Tempranillo, with highlights including Resistance Wine’s rebellious line-up and Dana Campbell’s scenic sips.
- The Experience: Whether you're strolling through downtown or relaxing in a hilltop vineyard, Ashland’s wine scene encourages you to slow down and savor both the wine and the view.
Medford: Rural Cool Meets Wine Innovation
- Atmosphere: Medford’s tasting rooms bring a modern, urban edge to the wine scene, with locations like The Urban Cork and Sound & Vision providing a sleek, stylish backdrop for tasting a range of wines from multiple producers.
- Key Wines: Medford wineries focus on Pinot Noir, Malbec, Tempranillo, and Sauvignon Blanc, with places like Padigan and Eliana crafting both classic and innovative interpretations of these varietals.
- The Experience: Medford’s tasting rooms are perfect for those seeking a casual, urban vibe with easy access to some of Southern Oregon’s finest wines in a cool, relaxed setting.
Wine Tasting Tips for Ashland and Medford
Plan Ahead: While Ashland’s tasting rooms tend to have longer hours and are ideal for combining with theater or dining, Medford’s urban tasting rooms often have specific hours, so check ahead to plan your visit.
Explore Both: The close proximity of Ashland and Medford makes it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend the day enjoying Ashland’s artistic, scenic vineyards and then head to Medford for an evening of urban wine tasting.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the artistic charm of Ashland or the urban sophistication of Medford, Southern Oregon’s wine scene offers something for every palate. From bold reds like Syrah and Malbec to refreshing Sauvignon Blanc and classic Pinot Noir, the Rogue Valley is a destination for wine lovers seeking both diversity and quality in every glass.
Start planning your wine-tasting journey today, and discover the distinct flavors that make Ashland and Medford two of Southern Oregon’s top wine destinations. Cheers!