APPropos Oregon

Combining the editorial content of noted wine writer Katherine Cole of The Oregonian with the convenience of a mobile application, Oregon Wine, The App is now available for download for $2.99 in the iTunes store. 

Each entry includes a description of the estate, wine recommendations and background on the winery. Personal touches, such as the name of the vineyard dog or interesting tidbits — like the legend behind the resident ghost — offer the user a sense of what it’s like to visit. 

Vineyards and wineries can be viewed alphabetically, by region or even by genres like “Value,” “Cult” or “Terroiriste.” Embedded links allow the user to explore additional fields of interest, while internal links take the viewer to other related entries.

Unlike many of its counterparts requiring continuous cell service — often a challenge in wine country — this app is completely self-sufficient once loaded onto the device. The user can enjoy continuous access regardless of wireless service. 

In addition to producer details, a real-time map and recommendations for dining and overnight lodging in each region make Cole’s app a user-friendly tool for tasting in wine country.

Not solely handy in wine country, Oregon Wine, The App can also be used in the more frequent setting of bottle shops. While browsing the shelves, you can access the app for vintage details and even cellaring suggestions. 

For true wine geeks, the “Practical Info” section of each entry provides more specific details such as soil types and eco-certifications. 

For those who can’t locate a particular winery in the list of 110 — Oregon has more than 400 producers — Cole calls it a work in progress and will add wineries through version updates.