Wine is focus of fruit loop celebration

The Hood River Valley, like much of the Columbia Gorge, offers a range of micro-climes created by soil types, slope and elevation, permitting the cultivation of a variety of kinds of grapes. And the valley's bountiful crops of fruits and berries -- primary ingredients in delightful specialty wines -- make it clear why the area has developed a reputation as a excellent wine locale. The Columbia Gorge Appellation became a federally-designated grape-growing region in July 2004. Local winemakers' efforts have won growing lists of awards.

Visit all of the Fruit Loop wineries during the Fruit Loop Wine Celebration, as well as the other farms and attractions of the Fruit Loop.

Of course, the Wine Celebration is a Fruit Loop-wide event and there are always fun activities and wonderful products available at farms and businesses all along the Fruit Loop. Find the harvest season's first tasty berries, early produce, cherries, garden plants and flowers, gourmet food products, delicious baked goods, lavender and lavender products, cute alpacas and great yarns and items made from alpaca wool, and much more.

Most farms and attractions along the Fruit Loop are open from at least 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (wineries open at 11 a.m.).

For complete information about the Fruit Loop Wine Celebration, for a listing of Fruit Loop farms, attractions and individual operating hours, and for an easy-to-follow map, visit the Fruit Loop website at www.hoodriverfruitloop.com. or call (541) 386-7697.

Printed copies are available at the Hood River County Visitors Center.