By Jessica Zimmer For over two decades, Oregon and Washington wineries have worked together to demonstrate their thoughtful approach to cultivation and winemaking. The result? The Pacific Northwest is well known for its premier wines. This is due, in part, to Oregon winery associations regularly communicating with “sister” counterparts in Washington. This year, the Willamette Valley Wineries Association and Walla Walla Valley Wine will jointly host a series of press visits highlighting both river valleys. Their goal? To show how the Valleys complement each another. “We want to tell stories tha ..read more

By Greg Norton Every bottle of wine tells a story. That adage strikingly comes to life in the new film, Somm: Cup of Salvation. Rooted in winemaking’s origin story and plotted through forgotten history, the movie’s narrative wends its way to today’s Middle East and, unexpectedly, our own Willamette Valley. WINE’S ORIGINS The lands surrounding Mount Ararat– present-day Georgia, Armenia and Northern Iran– are considered the earliest birthplace of wine. Archeologists found evidence of wine-making dating back 6000 years. But human conflicts, religion and politics have obscured its lengthy history ..read more

By Gail Oberst If you’re curious who has the largest collection of Oregon wines in the Northwest, and probably the world, wonder no longer. Not surprisingly, it’s chef Chris Czarnecki of the Joel Palmer House restaurant. He’s been collecting since taking over his parents’ restaurant in 2008. His collection contains more than 600 varieties of Oregon wines– about 2,100 bottles– is also the largest assembly of Oregon Pinot Noirs. “Stashing bottles has become my thing,” says the fourth-generation restaurateur. While his father Jack’s passions focused on wild mushrooms, a delicacy still front and c ..read more

By Paula Bandy Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. ~ Pablo Picasso Give me wine to wash me clean of the weather-stains of cares. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson Art and wine make a virtuous pair. Throughout the centuries and in all cultures, wine has figured in art, as in life, as a symbol of health, wealth and the good life. Wine transcends boundaries, and the myriad ways it’s been rendered in art express viable experiences, ancient to modern. Images of wine in art often illustrate the romantic, still life in beauty, reflection and a visual interpretation of abundance. A glass of w ..read more

By Aakanksha Agarwal When visiting Johan Vineyards this time of the year, notice the gorgeous glacier lilies blooming on the property, heralding the onset of the growing season. Buds swell; there’s the promise of warmth in the air and the vineyard bustles with life. But it’s not all work at Johan. You might spot their busy chickens wandering about, vineyard workers in their own right. They play a vital role, contributing to the ecosystem while circulating through the vines, laying delicious eggs and charming guests. (Next time you visit, be sure to snag a 12-pack of their farm-fresh, organic e ..read more

Hot Mama Salsa Roasted Carrot Habanero Hot Sauce Prefer your Bloody Marys spicy? Add some unique flavor– and heat– with this hot sauce. Roasted carrots play well with tomato juice and habanero chili peppers will have you moving faster than an espresso. Warning: use caution to avoid making your drink too spicy. hotmamasalsa.com $10 (9 ounces) Bitterman Salt Co. Rosemary Flake Salt For centuries, Italians have combined tomatoes with rosemary. Why not ditch the traditional kosher salt-rimmed Bloody Mary in favor of one with rosemary salt? I encourage you to elevate your boozy weekend beverage wit ..read more

Pambrun 2019 Merlot, Walla Walla Valley (panel pick) Rich notes of black licorice immediately captivate, followed by earthy mushrooms and equally fragrant espresso and sandalwood. Blackberries, blackcap raspberries and blueberries dominate the palate in a delicious fusion of dark fruit flavors. It boasts a robust structure, with grippy, assertive tannins providing both depth and a pleasing texture. This wine is sure to leave a lasting impression. $65 The Pines 2019 Merlot, Columbia Gorge Herbaceous aromas of green pepper combine with red cherries, sandalwood incense and red licorice for a frui ..read more

By Brooke Strickland The Columbia River Gorge has much to offer– breathtaking scenery stunning visitors from around the world, a thriving beer scene and destination wineries perfect for wine aficionados from all walks of life. For wine entrepreneurs, it’s also a great place to establish roots. The Gorge has recently welcomed several new wine shops with relaxed tasting rooms and diverse, world-class wine that keep people coming back. Cork Wine Shop Located in the heights of Hood River, Cork Wine Shop opened in November. Founder Dave Nagengast, along with wife Emily, have been delightfully surpr ..read more

BY MICHELE FRANCISCO Mark March 16 on your calendar and prepare for the opportunity to dive deeply into the Eola-Amity Hills terroir. The Eola-Amity Hills Winegrowers Association is hosting Equinox in the Eola-Amity Hills, a gathering featuring wines from 32 wineries and food pairings created by The Joel Palmer House, Cozy Taberna, Willabys Catering and Chocolatier Truffle Shuffle Salem. Held at Zenith Vineyard from 6-10 p.m., the event celebrates the quality and diversity of wines grown in the revered region. Serious wine enthusiasts can begin at 6 p.m. with the purchase of premier early entr ..read more

By Michele Francisco It was like watching a horror movie. I closed my eyes but the crunch of breaking bones, tearing flesh and snarling growls was even more terrifying. I glanced down at the low fence, grateful for its protection from the hungry animals devouring a dead possum. It took mere minutes before the carcass was totally gone… bones, fur, organs… everything.  I’m on the island of Tasmania. This was my first encounter with Tasmanian Devils. In real life, they bear little resemblance to the cartoons… except for their threatening teeth. After buying dramatically discounted tickets, m ..read more