The climate boasts a long and gentle growing season. Its mild winters, rainy springs, and warm summer days with cool evenings provide perfect conditions for growing the cool-climate grapes that Oregon is best known for. Because of the ideal growing climate winemakers are also experimenting with other cool climate varietals with great success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With so many wineries and a vast wine-growing region, it can be hard to know where to start. But this guide to the best wineries in Willamette Valley will help readers discover some astounding Pinot Noir, aromatic Riesling, and the valley\u2019s newest darling \u2013 sparkling wine, along with spectacular views and unique wine tasting experiences. If you’re looking to plan a trip, also check out our complete itinerary for visiting Willamette Valley<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two primary airports in Willamette Valley – Portland International Airport<\/a> in the north and Eugene Airport<\/a> in the south. For visitors wishing to take wine home with them, Alaska Airlines offers the Wine Flies Free program<\/a>, where passengers can check a case of wine for free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it is possible to take a bus to Willamette Valley, renting a car<\/a><\/strong> or taking a guided tour with transportation<\/a><\/strong> is necessary to visit most of the wineries. Our recommended guided tour offered by Great Oregon<\/a><\/strong> leaves from Portland with hotel pickup available. It’s a full-day trip with 3 – 5 winery visits and includes a beautiful vineyard lunch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Amtrak is another option for visitors traveling to Willamette Valley. The train stops in Eugene and Portland. Again, it\u2019s best to rent a car for visiting the wineries<\/a><\/strong> as most wineries are about an hour from Portland Airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a private yet guided tour, take a day trip with Carmine from Oregon Winemaker Tours<\/a><\/strong>. Your day is completely customizable, and Carmine is a winemaker himself. Choose from our list of recommended Willamette wineries below, or let Carmine select your stops based on your personal travel preferences. Not one of our readers has been disappointed. We couldn’t recommend a more educational and fun private day trip. Make sure you schedule well in advance<\/a><\/strong> as this is one of the best options in the valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RECOMMENDED:<\/strong> Browse the Winetraveler Shop for Vineyard Hopping Apparel<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re in the Eugene area, travel with Oregon Vine2Wine Tours and visit 3 hand-picked wineries on a tour departing from and returning to Eugene<\/a><\/strong>. Includes small bites along with transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 27895 NE Bell Road, Newberg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 537-1328<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Boutique, exclusive tastings with the winemaker, unique varieties, musical theme<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bells Up Winery<\/a> offers guests who seek out small wineries an approachable wine tasting experience led by the winemaker. Exclusive wine tastings, limited to no more than eight guests, are conducted in the winery\u2019s barrel room or on the outside deck with sweeping views of the vineyard. Three sessions are offered daily, by appointment, starting at 11 am.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bells Up owners Dave and Sara Specter, a couple of transplants from Ohio, started their winery in 2012 with 9 acres of vines. The name \u201cBells Up\u201d refers to a musical term – a dramatic moment in a classical music score instructing French horn players (of which Dave is one) to raise their instrument\u2019s bell and project sound with maximum intensity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As if responding to a symphony conductor\u2019s command, Dave and Sara completely transformed a former Christmas tree farm into a very productive wine making property. It\u2019s replete with vineyards, a winery, and a barrel room neatly composed on a south-facing hillside in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Today Bells Up remains deliberately small-scale, micro-boutique and un-domain production of 600 cases annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hence, it\u2019s fitting that with Dave\u2019s musical background, the wines are also named after symphonies of famous composers. Equal to the great symphonies they are named after, Bells Up wines reflect handcrafted, classically styled expressions of maximum intensity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dave conducts the winetasting personally as he sits across the custom-made varnished wood tables from his guests. He serves each wine one at a time as he expertly and enthusiastically describes the characteristics of each one and then explains the musically-derived name for it. Bells Up, like many other wineries in Willamette, serves wine in large, tulip shaped glasses, affectionally known as \u201cOregon Pinot glasses,\u201d to capture and enhance the aroma and flavors of the wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No tasting fees are charged. However, because the winemaker personally guides the party through a genuine, personalized, and private tasting, each guest is requested to purchase a minimum of three bottles each. A $100 non-refundable fee is charged per person in advance when making reservations, then applied back to the three-bottle minimum purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tastings typically include a sampling of five to six wines like Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, and a single vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir sourced from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. Dave also produces a Syrah with grapes sourced from the Walla Walla Valley. Unique to the Bells Up tasting, there is also an estate grown Seyval Blanc. And soon to be available, an obscure Northern Italian varietal, Schioppettino, will be on the menu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 14725 NE Quarry Road, Newberg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 504-3796<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Art gallery, accessibility to winemaker, homey atmosphere<\/p>\n\n\n\n If ever the perfect blend of science and artistry existed, it would be at Potter\u2019s Vineyard<\/a> in the Laurelwood District AVA. This family-run winery reflects a work of love for husband-and-wife owners Bill (winemaker and grower) and Sandy (tasting room manager) Sanchez. The couple purchased an existing 3.5-acre vineyard in 2012 and turned it into an art gallery, pottery studio, and tasting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The winery intentionally limits production to less than 1000 cases annually, but includes several different varietals from its organic, dry-farmed estate vineyard. They also source from vineyards in Washington. The winery\u2019s goal is \u201cto offer the very best tasting experience in Oregon\u201d and has recently received exceptional 90+ scores in various competitions. Visitors can be assured that Bill and Sandy\u2019s passion for handcrafted old-world style wines will be in every bottle made from their limited production, boutique vineyard. And the magic blend of science and art can be tasted in each wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A beautiful art gallery is the setting for wine tasting at Potter\u2019s Vineyard. Stylishly decorated with displays of colorful, clay art products handcrafted by Bill along the walls, the tasting room really comes alive when Bill Sanchez presents his 10th<\/sup> vintage Vino Vasai, Italian for Potter\u2019s wine. Seated at large tables in the center of the gallery, guests sample wines served one glass at a time by Sandy as Bill explains their character, complexity, and the vineyard that produced them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A tasting includes a flight of five wines, a Ros\u00e9, a Chardonnay, two Pinot Noirs, and a Cabernet Sauvignon. The tasting menu details the significant information on each wine, but Bill\u2019s running commentary on each of them brings to life his genuine passion and talented artistry in their creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wine tasting costs $20 per person. A tour of the vineyards and tasting costs $30. For $40, guests can taste, tour, and enjoy a charcuterie board to pair with their wines. Public tastings are by appointment only Friday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. Private tasting options are also available by reservation. By special request, a private tour of the artist\u2019s pottery production garage can also be arranged. Sales of art and wine are direct to consumer as well as to wine club members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 718 E 1st<\/sup> Street, Newberg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 538-2900<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Boutique, the story of the family, location, Viognier<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it\u2019s time to park the car and take a break, this urban wine tasting room, located in downtown Newberg is a delightful stop. Located between two popular restaurants in downtown Newberg, guests often end their afternoon or start their evening at this welcoming wine tasting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The name Et Fille<\/a> reflects the winery\u2019s legacy. It means \u201cand daughter,\u201d representing the founders, Howard (father) and Jessica (daughter) Mozeico who teamed up in 2003 to start a winery on a small test vineyard on Parratt Mountain in the Chehalem Mountain AVA. Today, Et Fille has expanded to sourcing grapes from blocks on six sustainably farmed vineyards located in four different AVAs in the Willamette Valley. The winery produces about 2500 cases annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having learned everything about wine making from her dad, Jessica continues making elegantly complex wines inspired by her late father\u2019s legacy and for the future of Jessica\u2019s own daughter, Gabriella.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The tasting room, with a subtle black, white and pink color theme that is also reflected on the wine bottle labels, is centered around a long bar. However, guests are seated at tables and chairs spread along the walls and the large street front window of the tasting room. Photos of the winery, vineyard, and family decorate the walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tastings are $25 per person and last about 60 minutes. The tasting room manager serves individual tastings by the glass. Guests can taste 5 to 6 wines from the current sustainably crafted wine selection of Pinot Noir, Viognier, and a m\u00e9thode champenoise sparkling wine. The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday, 12 – 6 pm, appointments are strongly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The flagship wine that most expresses the character of Et Fille Wines is the Et Fille Pinot Noir Willamette Valley. However, the most popular wine is the Viognier<\/a><\/strong> and it sells out quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each wine is accompanied with a description of its character by the attentive and knowledgeable tasting room manager, Josh. Cheese and charcuterie boards are available to order for $15.00, but if that\u2019s not enough food, Et Fille\u2019s tasting room is conveniently located between two of Newberg\u2019s choicest restaurants, the Rosmarino Osteria Italiana and the rugged Ruddick Tavern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED:<\/strong> Guide to Pairing Cheese with Different Kinds of Wine<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n 10660 SW Youngberg Hill, McMinnville<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 472-2727<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Best views, onsite bed and breakfast, fun events, no reservations required<\/p>\n\n\n\n For guests at <\/span>Youngberg Hill, wine tastings are more than working through a flight of five estate wines offered daily. It\u2019s enjoying the panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette Valley, and the surrounding hillsides covered with 23 acres of vineyards. It\u2019s also about the welcoming hospitality offered to guests who may want to stay at the three-story, nine-suite inn located directly in the center of the property. The Inn also houses the tasting room and provides an extensive outdoor, sheltered balcony seating area for wine tasting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Owner Nicolette Nickolaou bought the 50-acre estate in 2003. Youngberg Hill is one of the few women-owned wineries in the Willamette Valley and one of two of the westernmost vineyard sites in the McMinnville AVA. It is directly influenced by the cool marine winds coming through the Van Duzer Corridor, allowing the wines made here to be a full expression of where the fruit is grown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winetasting at Youngberg Hill offers two spectacular views. One is outdoors from the deck of the Inn. It includes an unparalleled view of the vineyard, the Eola-Amity Mountain range, and beyond that, the Cascades including Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Hood. Nicolette says, \u201cWe have the best views of the Willamette Valley here at Youngberg Hill Vineyards. That\u2019s what makes this place magic.\u201d The other view is that of the interior of the wine tasting room, a well-decorated, wood and brick-accented living room with a fireplace and overstuffed, yet comfortable chairs. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Youngberg Hill offers a walk-in, no reservations required, tasting of five wines for only $30 per person or the Bailey Family wines for $50 per person. For a more elevated experience, by appointment, and a slightly different view of the estate, guests can taste either the more comprehensive Youngberg Hill Reserve wines for $70 per person or the flagship Bailey Family Reserve label wines for $90 per person. In all the tastings guests are seated and knowledgeable servers are present to answer any questions guests may have. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n A unique, educational and fun finale to the wine tasting is the comparative tasting of the popular Pinot Noirs from the Natasha Block and Jordan Block vineyards. Both wines are from the same clone yet each distinctively reflects its different terroir in taste and character. Vineyard tours and barrel tastings are also available as are more higher-end types of specialty wine tastings. In addition to wine tasting, local music is featured on Wednesday evenings during the summer along with a host of other events throughout the year. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, the tasting room is only a short ten-minute drive from downtown McMinnville.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5935 Bethel Heights Road NW, Salem<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 581-4286<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Best views, onsite Airbnb, Taco Tuesday, Ros\u00e9 of Pinot Noir<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s hard to express in words the awesome beauty of the sweeping vista offered by Bryn Mawr Vineyards<\/a>. From the expansive patio with tables sheltered by enormous white canvas umbrellas, guests can see southwest across the Willamette Valley all the way to the Van Duzer Corridor. Cool winds from the Pacific Ocean that blow through this gap in the Cascade Mountains influence the wines made here by Rachel Rose, winemaker since 2009. Owners John and Kathy Lauer completed their modern production facility in 2017 after starting their winemaking effort in the basement of their original home on the property of only 4 planted acres. They now harvest from 20 acres planted high in the volcanic hillside soils of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Guests can sample wines while seated at tables outside on the patio or inside the spacious tasting room. The tasting room is well-lit by natural light that flows through the large windows that look out from the crest of the high hill. A flight of six wines costs $20 per person and is served by an attentive, knowledgeable staff person who explains the characteristics. In addition, a descriptive menu card with flavor profiles accompanies each flight. Open daily from 11 am \u2013 5 pm, reservations required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ros\u00e9 of Pinot Noir is the flagship wine of Bryn Mawr. So popular with guests, it sells out quickly. Tasting includes Pinot Noir, Dolcetto, Chardonnay, Tempranillo, and Riesling. Guests can rent an on-site Airbnb known as the \u201cidea box home\u201d with two king size suites offering stunning mountain views. All summer long a fun and festive event replays every Tuesday from 5 \u2013 8 pm. Taco Tuesday provides live music and features mouthwatering tacos with special pricing on a select bottle of wine each week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 19143 NE Laughlin Road, Yamhill<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 662-3280<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Excellent wines, educational tasting experience, beautiful views<\/p>\n\n\n\n Willakenzie Estate Vineyard<\/a> in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA offers stunning views from its spacious patio and its elegant tasting room. But don\u2019t let the beautiful surroundings distract you from its luscious estate Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. The focus here is on the wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bernard Lacroate and his wife Ronni established the winery when they purchased 420 acres in 1991. Originally a cattle farm, the winery\u2019s name is inspired by the ancient marine sedimentary soil on which the Willakenzie Estate is planted. The Willakenzie soil, formed from the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, is unique to Willamette Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This winery boasts the largest clonal varietal planting of vines in the Willamette Valley. Based on this diversity and in keeping with the winemaking tradition that great wines reflect a true sense of place, Willakenzie Estate produces elegant, cool climate wines. It relies on a long-standing practice of sustainable viticulture and was the first vineyard to become LIVE certified in the Willamette Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Willakenzie has over 125 different vines and 43 parcels. And when winemaker Erik Kramer started here in 2017, he asked to have all the large commercial tanks removed. They were replaced by craft sized tanks so that Erik could make decisions on when to pick for each parcel. Erik and vineyard\/land manager Ken Kupperman collaborate to grow and produce wines with depth and distinction. And yes, you can taste that quality in all of the wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2019 Estate Pinot Noir is Willakenzie\u2019s flagship wine. Erik makes this wine first by choosing the best fruit from the blocks he wants to use to create his masterpiece. Also, the aromatic 2019 Estate Chardonnay delivers a fine example of a classic chardonnay with complexity and layers of citrus and baked bread. The 2020 Tourdion Cuv\u00e9e Blanc and the 2019 Clariere Pinot Noir are more examples of the fine wine produced at Willakenzie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Varietals Flight is $30 per person, waived with a purchase of $75. The Cellar Club Flight is $40, waived with a $100 purchase. Cheese and charcuterie boards are available for $25. Tasting is available by appointment daily, 11 am \u2013 5 pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Seated tastings, poured one wine at a time, come with stories of the winery, the vineyard, the characteristics of the wines, and more about the winemaker. While the focus here is all about the wines, not events, specialized tours are available by reservation. They include an estate tour via ATV, extravagant charcuterie on top of the hill, and a Pinot only tasting to provide a perspective of this special place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 21101 SE Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 435-1278<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Excellent views, onsite restaurant, extensive wine list, produce grown onsite<\/p>\n\n\n\n Founded by the late Jimi Brooks, and now run by Janie Brooks, his sister, Brooks Wine<\/a> invites visitors to sit back, relax, and sip world class wines produced onsite from their nearly 50-year-old vineyards in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. The wines reflect the influence of the volcanic soils and Van Duzer Corridor winds on the grapes. The menu includes 17 Pinot Noirs, 15 Rieslings, 5 library wines, and 11 other wines including a white blend, Pinot Gris, and Syrah. Winemaker Chris William, in his 23rd<\/sup> vintage, says, \u201cIf you can\u2019t find something on this menu, then you don\u2019t really like wine.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tastings cost $20 for a flight of six wines. Guests can reserve their favorite table for parties of 1 to 8 with a $40 deposit. The $40 deposit is refunded with the purchase of tastings, wine, or food. Open daily from 11 am \u2013 5 pm, reservations required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The onsite restaurant serves lunch from their seasonal menu sourced, in part, from their well-maintained and prolific garden. Guests enjoy seated tastings and food either in the cozy tasting lounge or outdoors on the large deck while taking in the expansive four-mountain view and valley of vineyards below. On a clear day, guests can see Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson from the outside deck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5195 SW Hergert Road, Cornelius<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 503-992-1196<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Hospitality Manager Zack Mance\u2019s warm hospitality and gorgeous views of Mt. Hood<\/p>\n\n\n\n Owners Ruth and Skip Tarr, captivated by a property in the Laurelwood District that included a preexisting winery, a wine club, and vineyards, embarked on a new adventure. Their newly constructed tasting room, a testament to their passion, offers breathtaking views of Mt. Hood from its expansive patio. With his minimal intervention approach, winemaker Jason Bull crafts wines that truly reflect the terroir. The flagship wine is the Winemaker Cuvee Pinot Noir. A tasting includes six wines. The $25 tasting fee is waived with a $50 purchase. Open Thursday through Monday. Reservations accepted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 24399 NE Albertson Road, Hillsboro<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 503-405-8703<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Stunning views and warm hospitality<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cho Wines\u2019 brand new tasting room welcomes visitors with stunning views, warm hospitality, and delightful wines. Located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, this family-friendly winery is owned and operated by Oregon\u2019s first Korean American winemaker and his wife, Dave and Lois Cho. You\u2019ll love the story of this dynamic duo. The tasting fee is $40, free for wine club members. Open daily, walk-ins welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 12220 NE Bayliss Road, Carlton<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 832-953-8980<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It: <\/strong>Friday nights and ghost stories<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ghost Hill Cellars<\/a> in the Yamhill Carlton AVA features a spacious tasting room. Its brand-new tasting room atop Ghost Hill just opened in Spring 2024. The views alone are worth a visit. But it also comes with its own ghost story, a rich farming history that runs five generations deep, and estate wines aged to perfection. All of the wood in the tasting room comes from the family farm including the handmade tables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bayliss Bower Pinot Noir is the family\u2019s flagship wine, and the Pinot Noir Blanc is popular with visitors. Acclaimed winemaker Eric Hamacher makes the wines at Ghost Hill and believes in minimal intervention to produce these outstanding wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The tasting room is open Thursday \u2013 Monday 12:00 \u2013 5:00 pm, and open until 9:00 pm on Friday nights. The tasting fee is $25 per person. No reservations required. And for pet lovers, it\u2019s dog friendly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 8150 SW Swede Hill Drive, Portland<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 503-961-6057<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Stunning views and onsite restaurant<\/p>\n\n\n\n Amaterra means \u201cfor the love of the Earth\u201d and that sentiment is reflected throughout the design of this state-of-the-art, gravity flow winery. Located just minutes from downtown Portland, the winery sits high on the slopes of the city\u2019s West Hills. The views stretch across its vineyards to the Coast Range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By joining Amaterra Winery\u2019s<\/a> unique social membership, visitors have access to wine tasting and the onsite restaurant. Membership costs a one-time fee of $25 and only one member of a group need be a member.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s Super Cascadian, a bright rich red blend, made from grapes sourced out of Washington, is popular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The restaurant feature gourmet cuisine and locally sourced produce. For those who want to try food and wine pairing, the menu features tasting flights of four wine or the duo half glass of Ros\u00e9 or Chardonnay. Open Tuesday through Sunday for wine tasting from 12:00 \u2013 4:30 pm. Dinner is from 4:30 \u2013 9:00 pm. Reservations recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 18599 NE Archery Summit Road, Dayton<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 714-2030<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Wine tasting in the cave, stunning vineyard views, friendly staff<\/p>\n\n\n\n Guests who come for wine tasting in the heat of summer are in for a very cool and unique treat at this elevated winery in the Dundee Hills AVA. Archery Summit Winery<\/a> tastings take place underground in the coolness of a Burgundian-inspired barrel cave. Dug 45 feet underneath the vineyard above, the cave stretches for a quarter mile in what was formerly the wine production facility. Now it provides a wine tasting room where guests are seated at comfortable tables along the dramatic, black gunite coated walls. The cave temperature is so naturally well controlled that air conditioning is not required and guarantees a constant, pleasant coolness for wine tasters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The vineyard above features conditions uniquely suited for Pinot Noir with its south facing slopes, well-drained soil, and high elevation. From five estate vineyards and 50 different blocks spread across more than 80 acres in predominantly volcanic soils, winemaker Ian Burch crafts rare and remarkable wines that vividly express their distinct places of origin. He says, \u201cMy philosophy is trying to let the fruit speak for itself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Red Hills Vineyard is one of the most popular wines at Archery Summit. But Ian considers the Arcus Vineyard Pinot Noir, sourced from one of the winery\u2019s five vineyards in Dundee Hills, to be its flagship wine. Signature tastings run $50 per person for a flight of one single-vineyard Chardonnay, three single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, and one cellar selection. Open daily, tasting is available by appointment, from 10 am \u2013 4 pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ian says the best thing about the tasting experience is the knowledgeable, well-trained staff that serve each guest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4225 N Pacific Highway, Rickreal<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 831-4916<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Oak savannah, onsite restaurant with woodfired pizza, friendly staff<\/p>\n\n\n\n Within 30 minutes northwest of downtown Salem, Left Coast Estate<\/a> offers a unique opportunity for guests to enjoy a glass of wine under 400-year-old, majestic oak trees on their 500-acre vineyard, winery, and working farm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Left Coast Estate was founded by Robert Pfaff and Suzanne Larson, but the ownership has been with the children from the start. Now in its 2nd generation, Left Coast is located in the Van Duzer Corridor AVA. Since 2003, the family has expanded the original 35-acre planted plot to 160 acres for growing both white and red varieties. The winery produces about 23,000 cases annually. Their vineyards and winery are certified sustainable through LIVE and each bottle is crafted predominantly to represent the sedimentary and loess terroir in which the grapes are grown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to their wines, Sarah Horner, Marketing and Communication Director, says, \u201cLeft Coast Estate is working to preserve its oak savannahs using goats and sheep to mitigate the growth of invasive species of plants.\u201d For the past seven years the estate has sponsored a unique event named \u201cRun for the Oaks,\u201d in which 10K and 5K runs on a course designed around the property raises money to rehabilitate the oaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The wine tasting experience begins the moment guests arrive as Queen Bee Bubbly, a m\u00e9thode champenoise produced sparkling wine is served to each visitor. Beekeeping and honey production are part of the Left Coast Estates practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Knowledgeable servers provide the wine tasting experience by pouring each wine one at a time. The tasting costs $25, refunded with a two-bottle purchase. Tastes include a flight of two whites and two reds. The tasting room is open daily from 12 \u2013 5 pm. Tours of the estate vineyard can be arranged as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All wines are estate grown and can be coupled with delicious culinary pairings from the tasting room\u2019s kitchen. Especially popular with locals, the charming on-site farmhouse caf\u00e9 features woodfired pizza.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Joe Wright, the winemaker, has been with Left Coast for 15 vintages. Left Coast\u2019 flagship wine that best reflects the nature of the vineyards is also the most popular with guests, the White Pinot Noir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 34615 SW Bell Road, Sherwood<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n leigh@lolatiwines.com<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Intimate tasting room and big wines Leigh Brown, a well-known local winemaker, makes her own small-production wines under the label Lolati.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Named after her great-grandfather\u2019s farm in South Africa, the term means \u201cebb and flow.\u201d The tasting room reflects her heritage with colorful fabrics from South Africa. Brown sources her grapes from Washington and focuses on bigger wines. Her wines are expressive and delicious. The flagship wine is Primitivo, which is also Brown\u2019s biggest seller. The $25 tasting fee is waived with a two-bottle purchase. Open by appointment only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5430 NE Breyman Orchards Rd., Dayton<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 503-864-2000<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It: <\/strong>Olive oil tasting, the outdoor activities<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Durant family first planted grapes in 1973 in Willamette Valley. Then they planted olives in 2004 and followed by making their own wine in 2006. Now the family business at Red Ridge Farms has expanded to include olive oil production, a specialty plant nursery, and a farm shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Guests can wander the Knot Garden, a neatly manicured UK style garden, the lavender fields, and the Durant Nature Trail. While visiting the tasting room, guests can also partake in olive oil tasting. The farm even offers a two-bedroom, two-bath rental for those guests wishing to stay onsite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Durant Vineyard<\/a> tasting room features views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson with ample indoor and outdoor seating. The 2019 Brut was named SIP Magazine\u2019s <\/em>2023 Best of the Northwest Platinum Award Winner. It offers a perfect start to wine tasting at Durant Vineyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wine tasting is available daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Tasting fee is $30 per person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5000 NE Sokol Blosser Lane, Dayton<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 864-2282<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like Best About It:<\/strong> Pretty views, onsite restaurant, history and philosophy of sustainability<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fifty-one years ago, back when Oregon was better known for timber and turkeys than for wine, founders and current owners Susan Sokol and Bill Blosser began growing grapes in the red volcanic hills of what is now Dundee Hills AVA. Well before there even was an Oregon wine industry, these two visionary Willamette Valley pioneers started a winery that today continues to express the region\u2019s terroir through the brilliance of its fruit from the 128-acre organic certified estate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sokol Blosser\u2019s<\/a> dramatic tasting room overlooks estate vineyards below the winery and on the hills above it. The onsite kitchen offers small bites and a generous butcher board overflowing with curated meats, specialty cheeses, marinated vegetables, berry and fig jams, and spicy hazelnuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But the wine is the real star here. From the 2021 Willamette Valley Sauvignon Blanc, reminiscent of the New Zealand style found in Marlborough, to the 2021 Estate Ros\u00e9 of Pinot Noir, a bright, delicate wine, to the 2018 Peach Tree Block Pinot Noir, an earthy wine with a complex mouthfeel, all showcase the distinctive quality of Sokol Blosser wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2020 Bluebird Cuv\u00e9e Brut Sparkling, an excellent blend of five wines, is a nod to Susan Sokol\u2019s dedication to the Prescott Western Bluebird Recovery Project. The winery property is home to 11 bluebird boxes. Each year the boxes fill with nests and soon become home to a new generation of Bluebirds. The birds in turn eat their weight in bugs which helps with integrated pest management in the vineyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wine tasting flights cost $35 per person, waived with a minimum $109 wine purchase. A flight includes four wines, one Sauvignon Blanc, and four Pinot Noirs. Open daily from 10 am \u2013 4 pm by reservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 27751 NW Olson Road, Gaston<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n (503) 985-7760<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Guests Like About It:<\/strong> Historic winery, educational tasting, stunning tasting room<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a>Willamette Wine Tours & Travel Logistics<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Boutique Wineries and Intimate Tastings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bells Up Winery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Dave](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/BellsUp-PorchGroup-HR.jpg\")
Potter\u2019s Vineyard and Clay Art Gallery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Sandy](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/potters-vineyards-sandy-sanchez.jpg\")
Et Fille<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Wine](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/willamette-valley-et-fille-winery-tasting-room.jpg\")
<\/a>Wineries with the Best Views<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Youngberg Hill Vineyards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Beautiful](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/youngberg-hill-winery-willamette-valley.jpg\")
Bryn Mawr Vineyards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Willakenzie Estate Vineyard<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Brooks Wine<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sidereus Vineyard and Winery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cho Wines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ghost Hill Cellars<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Amaterra Winery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Unique Wine Experiences<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Archery Summit Winery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Inside](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/2-Archery-Summit-082.jpg\")
![\"Archery](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/archery-summit-beautiful-vineyard-views-1.jpg\")
Left Coast Estate<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lolati Wines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Durant Vineyards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Well-Established Willamette Wineries<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sokol Blosser Winery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Inside](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Inside-Sokol-Blosser-tasting-room.jpg\")
Elk Cove Vineyards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Inside](\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/elk-cove-tasting-room-willamette.jpg\")