Central Oregon vintners apply for federal recognition as a distinct wine-growing region
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Central Oregon Winegrowers Association announced Tuesday that it has submitted an application to establish a federally recognized American Viticultural Area in Central Oregon.
"This milestone marks the completion of the first phase of the AVA process with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau and represents a significant step forward in formally defining Central Oregon as a distinct and celebrated wine.-growing region," the organization said in a news release that continues below:
Under the leadership of longtime grower and vintner Kerry Damon, Central Oregon winegrowers have cultivated a resilient and high-quality wine community over the past 16 years. Leveraging the region’s volcanic soils, lava flows, and unique high-desert climate, members have successfully grown Vitis vinifera as well as cold-hardy and hybrid varieties that are producing award-winning wines and attracting national attention.
To guide the rigorous research and AVA petition process, COWGA engaged renowned geologist Dr. Kevin R. Pogue, principal of VinTerra Consulting PLLC. Dr. Pogue is a licensed geologist and recently retired professor from Whitman College, recognized for his expertise in terroir analysis and AVA formation. His proven track record includes successful AVA petitions across the Pacific Northwest.
His documented research confirms that Central Oregon possesses unique geologic and climatic attributes unlike any other wine region.
“This is a significant achievement for Central Oregon’s wine industry,” said Kerry Damon, founding member of COWGA. “Submitting this petition confirms what we as growers have known for years—that our region has a distinct character, and it deserves recognition. It’s a historic moment that reflects the dedication of our members and community.
A Transformational Opportunity
An AVA designation provides credibility and validation in the eyes of wine consumers and professionals alike. It allows winemakers to label their bottles with a federally recognized AVA, indicating that the grapes were grown in a distinct and identifiable region. For Central Oregon, this formal recognition would help:
- Differentiate local wines in a competitive market
- Increase consumer awareness and trust
- Enhance grape pricing and support future commercial wine production facilities
- Strengthen the economic foundation for rural communities including Redmond, Terrebonne, Sisters, Prineville, and Madras
Beyond the wine label, the AVA has broad implications for regional tourism and economic development.
“The momentum around this initiative is incredible,” said Kristine McConnell, Senior Vice President of Programs & Operations, Visit Central Oregon. “An AVA designation would uniquely spotlight Central Oregon’s natural beauty and warm hospitality—and would also help boost regional agritourism by attracting a valuable and passionate niche of travelers.”
Broad Support Across the Region
The AVA initiative has been met with enthusiastic support from local and state partners. Oregon State University’s viticulture researchers have collaborated with COWGA to provide scientific validation. The Oregon Wine Board and Oregon Winegrowers Association have also expressed strong support, recognizing the potential to diversify and expand the state’s wine regions. With backing from Visit Central Oregon, local tasting rooms, lodging providers, and agritourism operators, this initiative is uniting stakeholders around a shared goal: establishing Central Oregon as Oregon’s next great wine destination.
The AVA process is estimated to continue over the next 24 months as COWGA works through final regulatory review and documentation phases with the TTB.
About Central Oregon Winegrowers Association
The Central Oregon Winegrowers Association is a community of adventurous winery and vineyard owners determined to break new ground in Oregon viticulture.
Growing a blend of cold-hardy and Vitis vinifera grapes, members are dedicated to sharing their knowledge of what it takes to grow grapes and produce outstanding wines in Central Oregon’s volcanic soils, lava beds, and high-desert climate.
Over the past 16 years, they have proven that wine grapes can be successfully grown in the region, with local wineries receiving awards and accolades. More importantly, their wines invite exploration from enthusiasts eager to discover wines that create a sense of place—wines born of Oregon’s newest wine frontier.
