MayDestination EventWorth the trip

Willamette Valley Wine Auction: Trip Planning Guide

McMinnville, United States

May
When
$300–$2000
Entry
5 days
Suggested trip
Portland
Nearest airport

Going to Willamette Valley Wine Auction?

Oregon's premier fine wine auction, now in its tenth year, presenting unique lots from the Willamette Valley's top producers — primarily Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines from the 2024 vintage. The two-day format includes intimate producer dinners and a live auction that has become a major event on the Pacific Northwest wine calendar. Proceeds support the Willamette Valley Wineries Association.

Your trip blueprint

1
Arrive a day early
Settle in and visit a local producer before the crowds arrive — fly into Portland International (PDX).
2
Festival (2 days)
Two days in mid-May, annual. Best for wine-enthusiasts and couples.
3
Extend into the region (2 days)
Willamette Valley has 500 mapped wineries — add 2 days to explore at your own pace.
Insider tip

The auction lots often include futures and barrel samples that never appear commercially — serious collectors should register to bid online if unable to attend.

About Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley is Oregon's premier wine region and America's spiritual home of Pinot Noir. Stretching 150 miles from Portland south to Eugene, this cool-climate valley produces some of the world's most compelling Pinot Noir alongside stellar Pinot Gris and Chardonnay.

Read the full Willamette Valley wine region guide →

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Festival info: www.willamettewines.auction