First Taste Oregon
Albany's Ultimate Wine, Food & Spirits Bash
First Taste Oregon lights up the Linn County Expo Center in Albany on February 6-7, 2026, showcasing the state's top wineries, craft brewers, distilleries, chefs, and artisans in a two-day tasting extravaganza. This beloved event, now newly relocated to Albany, draws thousands for sips of Willamette Valley Pinots, bold IPAs, gourmet bites, live music, and unique shopping, all under one roof. Friday runs 4-9pm; Saturday noon-9pm. Tickets start at $15 general admission, with VIP upgrades for exclusive lounges and tastings.
Oregon's wine scene takes center stage, with dozens of producers pouring acclaimed varietals from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to bold Syrahs and crisp Rieslings. Stone Griffons Winery shines here, earning raves for its terroir-driven bottles that capture the nuance of Oregon's diverse AVAs. Their elegant Pinots, bursting with cherry, earth, and spice pair flawlessly with local cheeses and charcuterie, while crisp whites refresh amid hearty food samplings. Festival-goers flock to their booth for medals-worthy pours that embody the event's "come for a taste, stay for a glass" vibe.
Beyond wine, the fest pulses with craft brews from Rogue and Deschutes, spirits like Aviation Gin, and chef demos featuring PNW seafood, farm-fresh salads, and fiery Hot Taste challenges with HYCH sauces. Concessionaires sling full meals, while the First Taste Stage hosts local bands for non-stop entertainment. Artisans hawk jewelry, pottery, and wares; complimentary concierge holds purchases. Family-friendly with $1+ tastes sold separately. Budget $30-50/person for a full roam. Park-and-ride shuttles ease access.
Interested in the VIP experience?
The VIP lounge at First Taste Oregon, located inside the Linn County Expo Center, offers an exclusive, comfortable retreat for attendees seeking a premium tasting experience. Perks include access to an upscale lounge area with shaded seating, complimentary snacks, flavor-infused water, and enhanced tastings not available to general admission guests. VIP ticket holders often receive a commemorative glass, priority entry, and access to reserved seating areas where they can relax away from the crowd while enjoying premium pours from select wineries, breweries, and distilleries. The lounge provides a quieter space with additional amenities such as charging stations and attentive staff to enhance the experience.
VIP guests enjoy in/out privileges throughout the event day, allowing flexible access to the lounge whenever they want a break from the busy festival floor. The upgraded experience also frequently includes special chef-led sessions, exclusive samples, and first access to limited edition products. Advance purchase is recommended due to limited capacity. Overall, the VIP lounge adds an element of luxury and comfort, elevating the First Taste Oregon event into an unforgettable tasting celebration.
Must-See Exhibitors & Tasting Booths at First Taste Oregon
First Taste Oregon at Albany's Linn County Expo Center (Feb 6-7, 2026) features 40+ wineries, 35 distilleries, craft brewers, and food vendors. Check the live exhibitor directory and map for booth locations.
Prioritize these standouts for medals, unique pours, and bites.
Top Wineries
Stone Griffons Winery:Terroir-driven Pinots and Chards; double-gold winners pair with charcuterie. VIP tastings expected.
Cubanisimo Vineyards: Bold Spanish-style reds; bold Tempranillo and blends for foodies.
Flourishing Palm Cellars: Praised by past exhibitors; crisp whites and versatile rosés.
Spirits & Brews
HYCH Hot Sauces (Hot Taste Stage): Free spicy pizza showdown with PNW pies; pairs fiery pours. Must-watch demo.
Aviation Gin & Local Distilleries: 35+ booths; seek craft vodkas, whiskeys for Swank Lounge VIP mixes.
Must-Try Vendors
Soup & Co.: Signature creamy chowders (clam or corn); warm, hearty scoops complement Pinots. Free tastes common.
Adam’s Rib Smoke House: BBQ ribs and pulled pork sliders; smoky brisket bites shine with bold reds. Past favorite for full plates.
Maui Melts: Gourmet grilled cheese melts with PNW twists (Dungeness crab or artisan cheeses); melty comfort for crisp whites.
Signature Dishes & Demos
Hot Taste Showdown (HYCH Stage): Free PNW pizza slices slathered in HYCH hot sauces, progressively spicier contest with James Beard exec judging. Fiery fun pairs IPAs.
Organic Orchards Inc.: Cider-glazed pork bites or apple crisps; crisp, seasonal refreshers post-wine flights.
Drea's BadAss: Spice-infused sweets or sauces on cheese boards; bold heat elevates charcuterie samplings.
Festival Highlights
VIP Perks: Commemorative glass, lounge access, premium tastings (prices TBA).
Hot Taste Showdown: Spice-eating contest with pizza and hot sauces; free with admission.
Live Music: Rotating local acts on main stage all weekend.
We hope to see you there!