Have Wine, Will Travel

Wine tasting in Oregon has become a treasured pastime. Every day, wine lovers climb into their coupes, turn on their TomToms — or other GPS devices — and head into wine country.

In April, these good-time wine travelers will have an even richer experience made possible by four regional events in the Gorge, Washington County, Dundee Hills and Umpqua Valley.

COLUMBIA GORGE PASSPORT WEEKEND - April 1–3

Boasting “A World of Wine in 40 miles,” the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Association promises a full weekend of wine tastings on both sides of the river. Wineries will offer exclusive specials for Passport holders, and lodging and dining specials are also available.

Passports are $15 and available at www.columbiagorgewine.com.

NORTH WILLAMETTE WINE TRAIL WEEKEND - April 9–10

Wine lovers are invited to attend the third annual tour hosted by North Willamette Vintners, a nonprofit comprised of wineries, vineyards and other wine tourism partners in the North Willamette Valley.

Guests will receive wine tastings exclusive to the event, including offerings of reserve labels, new releases and barrel tastings. Specially selected wine and food pairings will be offered, as will a variety of activities such as winery tours, live music, garden walks and art exhibitions.

Tickets are $45 ($10 for designated drivers) and available at www.nwvintners.org.

DUNDEE HILLS PASSPORT TOUR - April 16–17

The Dundee Hills Winegrower’s Association will present its sixth tour, in which attendees will enjoy the AVA’s benchmark wines and spectacular views.

Guests also will learn from experts about the unique climate, red volcanic soil, geology and earth-friendly farming practices that make this appellation its own.

Tickets for this tour are limited — only 150 available — and can be purchased at www.dundeehills.org.

UMPQUA VALLEY BARREL TOUR - April 16 — as well as May 21

Wine lovers won’t want to miss this tour presented by the Umpqua Valley Winegrowers Association.

No need for a car, participants will board buses bound for one of three different tours — north, central or south. Each route contains an impressive group of wineries at which guests can taste the latest wines, mingle with winemakers, indulge in gourmet goodies and admire the wine country views.

Tickets are $50 and available at www.umpquavalleywineries.org.