EdenVale Winery

A visit to EdenVale Winery is both a wine-tasting excursion and a field trip in history. However, before we dive into the juicy details, I need to clarify that the EdenVale tasting room is known as the Rogue Valley Wine Center, and it’s part of the Eden Valley Orchards–Voorhies Mansion. Whatever the name, a visit to the winery takes you to the birthplace of Oregon’s commercial pear industry—the Eden Valley Orchards, launched by Joseph H. Stewart in 1885.

The woman working in the tasting room during my visit couldn’t say enough good things about the owners of the winery — the Root family. It seemed her feelings were genuine. When asked about the history of the property, she responded, “I wish Anne [Root] was here. She could tell you a lot about the history of the property. The Roots view themselves as stewards of the land and the valley’s traditions.”

Interesting to know, I thought. But I was more curious about the fact that, in addition to EdenVale wines, the Roots sell other boutique wines in their tasting room. “What’s up with that?” I asked. Again, the pourer stated, “Anne could give you a better answer, but I know that their concern is for the welfare of the Rogue Valley’s wine industry. If we can promote small-time wineries, it helps everyone’s cause.” However, it was EdenVale’s Pear House Collection of syrah, tempranillo, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, and claret that held my attention.

I looked out through the window and noticed that winery employees were setting up for a wedding. Someone was aligning the white chairs, and a photographer was snapping pictures of the bride and groom before the crowd arrived. I turned to the pourer to ask a question about EdenVale events, but before I could frame my question, she noted, “The Roots are big into hosting events and celebrations. They sponsor a jazz night every Thursday night during the summer. We’re always busy!”

By then, I had gotten the point. As the fourth generation of the Roots family in this valley, its current members continue to carry on the familial passion for this special place and its rich agriculture. Their pride spills over, and visitors experience it in the tasting room. After my visit, I didn’t see the need to interview any of the Roots themselves. Unbeknownst to them, their ambassador working the tasting room that day had succeeded in telling their story with great eloquence.