New AVA for Oregon

Elkton has been approved as the latest American Viticultural Area in the US.



The new designation in southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley will take effect from 7 March.



Elkton AVA will encompass an area of 74,900 acres (30,351ha) currently within the northern zone of the larger Umpqua Valley AVA.



Currently, the new AVA will compose of just 5 wineries and 39ha under vine.


The sub-region is ideally suited to growing Pinot Noir and similar cool climate varietals, which is due to closer proximity to the Pacific Ocean, whereas the southern Umpqua AVA can ripen Syrah, Cabernet and such warm climate varietals.’ 


Elkton joins another Umpqua Valley sub-appellation, the Red Hill Douglas County AVA, which was established in 2005.