best winery tours in oregon

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20 Best Oregon Wineries to Visit

That Oregon , with its wet weather and short summers, could ever be famous for wine was in doubt until as recently as 40 years ago, when the state began to receive international acclaim. Today the Willamette Valley is the epicenter of a world-class wine region famous for some of the United States' best Pinot Noir . Here are 20 destination Oregon wineries to visit.

Adelsheim Vineyard

The Adelsheims were among the first wave of Oregon wine pioneers in the 1970s, and their family winery remains a benchmark for Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Visitors can taste a range of small-batch, winery-only bottlings in the tasting room. Choose from a variety of tasting experience options and book online. adelsheim.com

Archery Summit

This well-funded winery produces high-end Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other bottlings at its picture-postcard location in the Dundee Hills. There is a roster of experiences to choose from here, ranging from the $50 seated estate tasting to a combination tasting and tour of the underground barrel caves carved into volcanic rock (up to $80). archerysummit.com

Argyle Winery

You might not run across the ghost said to inhabit the old Dundee City Hall that serves as Argyle's main building (the namesake of its Spirithouse Pinot Noir), but you can visit the Nuthouse (the old hazelnut plant and namesake of its Nuthouse Pinot) and taste its range of single vineyard still wines — and the sparkling wines that are among America's best. Visit during the slack season in February and enjoy the Oregon Truffle Festival. argylewinery.com

Bergström Wines

These highly regarded, biodynamically grown wines are a family affair — the talented, Burgundy-trained winemaker Josh Bergström is the owners' son. The picturesquely situated frame farmhouse amid the rolling vineyards in Dundee offers private tastings year round, with an $80 fee. bergstromwines.com

Carlton Winemakers Studio

Wine lovers who want to step outside the mainstream tasting rooms and sample the new and artisanal have a one-stop tasting destination in the Carlton Winemakers Studio, where 16 quality-oriented small producers like Andrew Rich, Hamacher, and Lazy River have banded together to produce "liquid synergy." The sleek, wine bar-like tasting room is an ode to Oregon's cutting edge. winemakersstudio.com

The tasting room for Chehalem (pronounced sha-HAY-lem) is in a historic brick building in Newberg that offers an Old World-style twist on the usual: Fill or refill your Chehalem souvenir liter-size bottles from the tap with wines like the no-oak INOX Chardonnay or a Pinot like the Three Vineyard. There are also regular tasting flights offered, from $25. chehalemwines.com

Cristom Vineyards

One of Oregon's longest-running acts, Cristom's winemaking and vineyard team have been in place since the winery's founding in 1992, and their naturally produced Pinot Noirs are among Oregon's most acclaimed wines. The standard tasting fee for five wines in the homey Salem tasting room is $25, but Cristom also has a semi-private, guided tasting program ($65). cristomvineyards.com

Domaine Drouhin

Visitors are drawn to this U.S. outpost of Burgundy's Maison Joseph Drouhin by the reputation of the Pinot Noirs, including the very fine Dundee Hills entry-level bottling, and are captivated by the sweeping views from these hilltop vineyards. Visits are by appointment only; choose from a few different options, including a comparison tasting of Drouhin's Oregon and French wines. domainedrouhin.com

Domaine Serene

This stylish producer of highly regarded Pinots and Chardonnays occupies a Tuscan-style hilltop building in Dayton, marked by its mascot Wooly, a 14-foot high wooly mammoth sculpture — a memorial to the Ice Age events that formed the Willamette Valley. Reservations are required to visit; estate tastings begin at $40. domaineserene.com

Elk Cove Vineyards

Elk Cove is one of Oregon's pioneering wineries, established by the Campbell family back in the 1970s in the foothills of the Coastal Range (which also provides mountain views out the windows). The wine has reached new heights under second-generation Adam Campbell, whose portfolio includes the luscious dessert wine blend Ultima. Basic flights in the modern tasting room start at $30; it's recommended to reserve ahead as walk-in availability is limited. elkcove.com

Eyrie Vineyards

Eyrie was the winery that kicked off Oregon's modern wine era back in 1965 and bottled America's first Pinot Gris. Now under the direction of founder David Lett's son Jason, Eyrie continues its emphasis on wines of finesse and balance rather than sheer power. Eyrie combines the charm of a hands-on, small, family-run winery with very high quality. The cozy tasting room in McMinnville hosts signature tastings for $40; reservations are required. eyrievineyards.com

Gran Moraine

California wine juggernaut Kendall-Jackson jumped into the Oregon wine business with both feet. It purchased a wide swath of vineyard land in the rolling hills of the Carlton-Yamhill AVA and built an impressive winery producing a line of super-premium Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Visits are by appointment only; the estate tasting is $40. granmoraine.com

Ken Wright Cellars

Ken Wright is a name to conjure with among Oregon Pinot Noir lovers, and his long-established winery has never lost its place among the handful of the state's most sought-after producers. The Carlton tasting room is the place to sample the fine Pinots; reservations are encouraged. kenwrightcellars.com

King Estate

One of Oregon's largest producers, King Estate is known for terrific Pinot Gris — in various styles and at different prices — and its vast organic ranch, located southwest of Eugene, which includes gardens, orchards, a restaurant, and wetlands. The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday by appointment. kingestate.com

Lemelson Vineyards

Environmental lawyer Eric Lemelson's frame-barn winery conceals a high-tech, carefully thought-out facility for highlighting the natural nuances in his organically farmed grapes. The wines — including Pinot Noir and Riesling — are the draw, but the design-magazine stone and oak building (including the sleek tasting room) in Carlton lends an extra charm. Closed mid-week. lemelsonvineyards.com

Burgundy-trained Luisa Ponzi has taken over the keys to the cellar from her parents in this foundational winery, which sources most of its wines — including the flagship Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris — from its own, sustainably farmed Chehalem Mountains vineyards. The beautiful modern winery in Sherwood offers both signature and estate tasting flights; check their calendar for winery events. ponziwines.com

Rex Hill's esteemed roster of estate-grown wines are farmed biodynamically, and the lineup includes offerings from top Oregon growers. Visitors have the opportunity to sample these wines in a variety of ways, up to a $90 legacy tour of the vineyard and winery with a tasting of matured wines. rexhill.com

Sokol Blosser

This path-breaking Dundee Hills winery is now under the guidance of the second generation of Sokol Blossers, who opened the strikingly designed, cedar-lined Dundee tasting room in 2013. The lineup here includes the image-making Pinot Noir bottlings and the popular, affordable Evolution line. Standard tasting flights are $35; reservations are required. sokolblosser.com

Soter Vineyards

Tony Soter, long one of California's most respected winemakers and consultants, took his expertise north to found this small winery, one of America's benchmark producers of Pinot Noir and sparkling wines, all in Soter's refined, nuanced style. The winery is open by advance appointment only, for semi-private, guided seated tastings ($45) and more extensive "Provisions" tastings ($150) including food grown on the estate. sotervineyards.com

Willamette Valley Vineyards

One of Oregon's largest producers — partly owned by thousands of small shareholders through an ongoing public offering — WVV occupies a fairytale site high on a vine-covered slope and offers visitors to the Turner estate a range of tasting and dining experiences, including wine-pairing meals prepared by the estate chef. If you'd prefer not to drive home afterward, you can book one of the estate's luxury suites. WVV also has five other Oregon tasting room and restaurant locations. wvv.com

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How to reach wine tasting experiences in oregon.

Wine tasting tours in Oregon are easily accessible by different means of transportation.

Looking for a more specific destination?

Design your perfect wine holiday in oregon, personalize your wine experiences with our team of experts., the best season to experience wine tastings and tours in oregon.

The best season to experience wine tastings and tours in Oregon is  summer . Summers in Oregon are not too hot and extremely enjoyable, thanks to the influence of the mountains and the breeze from the Pacific Ocean. The coast area gets a bit more packed in summer but is still very nice to have a glass of wine around the Portland area during the hot season.

What to do in Oregon?

After having experience wine tastings and tours in Oregon, be sure to visit more of this beautiful state. Portland  is the largest city in Oregon and one of the most active, trendy, and modern cities in the USA. The city is also known as "Bridgetown" because of the many bridges that cross the Willamette River. Oregon is mostly known for its stunning natural landscapes. Discover the scenic  Silver Falls State Park  or  Crater Lake , one of the most famous spots in Oregon because of the beautiful clear blue color of the water.

What to taste in Oregon?

At wine tastings and tours in Oregon, you will get the opportunity to taste the famous Pinots from Oregon, Noir, and Gris. Pinot Noir from Oregon, more precisely from the Willamette Valley, is light-bodied, medium acidity, and showcases aromas of pomegranate, berries, black tea, vanilla, and spices derived from the oak aging. Pinot Gris is the main white variety in Oregon and it has fruity-forward flavors. The most recognizable are those of pear, peach, almond, and a citrus and nectarine finish.

What to expect from wine tastings and tours in Oregon?

Most wine tastings and tours in Oregon consist in a  guided winery tour , with visits to the aging rooms and cellar tours, followed by excellent  wine tasting experiences . Enjoy a glass of amazing wine and the explanations of local winemakers surrounded by untamed nature. Many wineries offer premium wine tastings and tours and let you personalize your own experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors, which are the best experiences for wine tastings and tours in oregon.

• Wine tasting and tour at Winter's Hill Estate
• Wine tasting and tour at Anne Amie Vineyards
• Wine tasting and tour at Hamacher Wines

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in Oregon for kids and families?

• Emerson Vineyards
• Chateau Bianca
• Plum Hill Vineyards
• Youngberg Hill

Which places provide the top wine tastings and tours in Oregon for couples?

• Wine tasting and tour at Brooks Wine
• Wine tasting and tour at Yamhill Valley Vineyards

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in Oregon for groups?

• Winter's Hill Estate
• Telaya Wine Co.

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in Oregon for travellers on a budget?

• Wine tasting and tour at Emerson Vineyards
• Wine tasting and tour at Chateau Bianca

Which places in Oregon provide the top wine tastings and tours if I like organic wines?

• Anne Amie Vineyards
• Anderson Family Vineyard
• Furioso Vineyards

What do you normally do during wine tastings and tours in Oregon?

Which places provide the best private wine tastings and tours in oregon.

• Wine tasting and tour at Anderson Family Vineyard

Are there any exclusive and premium wine tastings and tours in Oregon?

• Phelps Creek Vineyards
• Brooks Wine

Are there any wine tastings and tours close to Portland, Salem or Eugene?

Are you interested in reading more about oregon.

Read our travel guide to the Oregon wine region , or discover our very selection of wineries in Oregon and places to stay in Oregon .

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Oregon Wine Maker Tours

We provide private customized willamette valley wine tasting experiences., what people say.

★★★★★ If you are visiting Oregon and looking for the most exceptional, personalized wine tour, Carmine is the one to call. Beside having a top-notch professionalism and personality, he is a walking dictionary when it comes to wine tasting, agriculture, and interesting facts about Oregon in general. Highly recommend!! – Audrey Nguyen

★★★★★ Phenomenal! Carmine was the consummate host. Not only is he extremely personable, he has expert level knowledge on wine making down to the genetic strains. Additionally, he can provide exclusive access to wineries that are generally not open to the public. If you are looking for a tour, I highly recommend Carmine. He will personalize and elevate your experience. He will pick you up, provide water, delicious lunch and excellent wines. A true pleasure and treasure. Book it! – Amber Wright

★★★★★ Our experience with Carmine was over the top amazing! I would recommend this tour with Carmine from the spectrum of those that want to learn about wine or those that have some knowledge of wine! He can cater to your expectations or your needs whether you are a novice or an expert in the wine industry! He is knowledgeable in everything relevant to the Willamette wine region. His knowledge of the area historically, the wine industry , the agriculture and life in the Willamette in general filled our minds with such knowledge and a great appreciation of the area and one he absolutely loves! Needless to say this was one of the most amazing tours/ experiences for us in our lives and a memory forever to be cherished! Thank you Carmine our friend and look forward to seeing you soon for our next tour! – John and Susan Love

★★★★★ My wife and I booked a tour with Carmine in late December of 2022. Carmine picked 4 wineries for us to visit based on some basic feedback that I provided and they were great choices. Even though we had a last-minute change to the schedule due to weather the day was excellent. Carmine has a wealth of knowledge about winemaking and the region; the day was more than just driving to each vineyard. He provided information about the landscape, agriculture, Oregon history, and the business of winemaking. The entire day was informative and enjoyable. We had a great time with Carmine and would recommend him to anyone visiting Willamette Valley. – Peter Spera III

★★★★★ Our private wine tour with Carmine was truly exceptional. He is extremely communicative, knowledgeable and just an all around great guy! He picked us up from the hotel in downtown Portland and had an incredible lineup set based on the preferences we provided when signing up. We loved that he brought some of his own wines for us to try throughout the day (huge bonus as they’re fantastic) and seemed to know all the great spots. Carmine is the real deal when it comes to knowledge about wine in this regions so we enjoyed picking his brain throughout the day. We looked at several other tours but so happy we chose this one! It exceeded our expectations and can’t wait to explore more with Carmine next time we visit. Don’t hesitate….book this tour for the best experience in Willamette Valley! – Carla Crowe

WHY BOOK WITH US?

Book your tour with us and experience why we’re an award-winning tour! This is not your traditional wine tour; we customize this private tour to meet your needs and interests. Carmine, your tour guide, will interact with you before the tour to ensure that your wine country experience is memorable. He has over 30 years experience cultivating grapes and making wines. You have the option to tap his expertise as you taste wines, tour wine cellars, or explore vineyards. In 2023-2024 Oregon Winemaker Tours was named Best Pacific Northwest Winery Tour through LUXlife’s Global Excellence Awards, and in 2020 USA Today named this tour among the Top Twenty US Wine Tours.

Oregon’s amazing Willamette Valley located just outside the Portland metro area is nature’s masterpiece for growing cool-climate grapes, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Its deep and complex soils, gently rolling hills, annual rainfall, cool and moderate seasonal temperatures, and long summer daylight coalesce to produce elite and delicious world-class wines. There are nearly 1000 wineries located in the region, offering you diverse sites in which to explore vineyards, cellars, and tasting rooms. Each location is unique in the size of the vineyard and wine production, particular wine-making techniques, hospitality services, and views offered, as well as wines available for tasting.

A trip to wine country with Oregon Winemaker Tours is perfect for singles, couples, or small groups.  Relax and leave the driving to us while you enjoy a gourmet lunch and some of the world’s best wines.  Cheers!

CorporateLiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards 2024 Winner

Wine Tour Operator of the Year 2023

Best Wine Tasting Tour Operator 2023

Readers’ choice travel awards.

Oregon Winemaker Tours has been nominated in USA TODAY’s 2023 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards!

National recognition.

Best Pacific Northwest Winery Tour Operator 2022

Best Wine Tasting Experience – Willamette Valley 2022

Tour options.

Our goal is to showcase the best of what Oregon has to offer in vineyards and wines! Feel free to choose your wineries or let us make the selection. Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Oregon’s wine country. Our tour pace is flexible and based on your feedback as you move through the day. The recommended full-day tour generally includes 3-4 wineries and lasts 8 hours, including transportation in a luxury vehicle to and from your location. Half-day tours can also be arranged. A wine country picnic lunch is provided on full-day tours. Some wineries will allow us to waive tasting fees; otherwise these fees are not included. In most cases the winery will waive tasting fees if you purchase wine.

Full Day Private Custom Willamette Valley Winemaker Tour with Lunch

$300 per person or $475 single individual full day tour. Hosted by Pioneering Winemaker Carmine Campione.

Half-Day Private Custom Willamette Valley Winemaker Tour

$175 per person or $350 single individual half day tour. Hosted by Pioneering Winemaker Carmine Campione.

Private Custom Willamette Valley Winemaker Tour

You’ll be picked up at 10 am and transported to 3-4 vineyards with tasting rooms in one of the Willamette Valley’s best viticulture areas: Eola-Amity, Dundee Hills, Yamhill Carlton, or Ribbon Ridge, Chehelem Mountains or McMinnville. Your choice of area or leave the choice to us! A wine country picnic lunch will be provided mid-way through your tour. Tours generally last 8 hours and include pick-up and drop-off at your location.

Tell us where you’d like to go or what you’d like to experience for a full day of wine-tasting, and we’ll make it happen!

Did this tour on a whim on a solo Portland trip. Such a blast! Great group of people, knowledgeable guides, wide range of exposure to different wineries, all around a top-notch - an unbeatable experience. Highly recommend to groups or anyone traveling individually!

Super fun! Carmine is an amazing tour guide with inside knowledge of Willamette Valley wineries. He knew people everywhere we went. The wines were fabulous. A perfect day - highly recommend this private tour!

Wow. Carmine is literally the best. He knows so much and is great to hangout with. His knowledge is unparalleled. I went into this literally knowing almost nothing and ended the day with possibly a brand new hobby.

Carmine’s tour was a great experience. We recently went on a full day tour to a few wineries we had never heard of but each had great wine. 2 of the 4 of us in our party are vegan and he was happy to accommodate with much more than the crackers we were expecting! We enjoyed his knowledge and experience and would recommend it to others!

We had a wonderful day with Carmine filled with 6 different wine tasting experiences! It was great to have him plan out our day based on our wine preferences. Our picnic lunch and the view were spectacular! Carmine even set up two other tastings for us the day before our tour! Carmine is knowledgeable about every aspect of wine making so we learned a great deal while viewing beautiful wineries!

Carmine was amazing to work with. I was visiting Portland for a girls trip and we wanted to do a day trip to Willamette Valley and Carmine truly made it an awesome experience. He customized our tour all the way down to music and snacks. He was amazing to work with on planning our day and had endless recommendations. His knowledge of wine is lengthy and gave us so much education. He was flexible, affordable and a joy to be around. Look no further!

We had a great time. Carmine has lots of information about wine and the growing process that he is willing to share. We had a good time with lots of laughs. Thank you Carmine.

Fantastic day celebrating a friend's milestone birthday! Carmine set up a personal tour of Bjornson Vineyard with the winemakers, followed by wine tasting and a scrumptious picnic-style lunch. Couldn't have asked for a more perfect day!! My friend and I loved the experience. I highly recommend Carmine and this tour to everyone!

We had a great time with Carmine! He planned a truly unique experience, with the opportunity to taste some amazing wines. This was my first visit to the Willamette Valley, and we enjoyed learning about Oregon wine from someone with the breadth of experience Carmine brings. Our day included a delicious picnic lunch with scenic views overlooking a vineyard, and Carmine adjusted the itinerary on the fly based on our preferences. Highly recommend!

Mel was a great guide and really took the time to get to know our group. We all got along really well and had a great day together. The hike to Cub Lake was lovely and we were lucky to see elks, a deer, a marmot and lots of chipmunks (careful, they’ll come for your food!). All the best to you all!

Carmine was very knowledgeable and fun. I learned a lot about wine and got to see some beautiful wineries.

Discover more things to do in Portland Oregon .

Featured in “the nines concierge magazine”.

Providing Exceptional Oregon Wine Tours Since 2012

Experience the willamette valley in 2024.

With nearly four decades of experience with their family vineyards and the Oregon wine industry, Helen Avery and Mark Treick bring their expertise to Cellar Door Wine Tours, a venture they have owned since 2012, and specializing in private Oregon wine tours tailored for couples and small groups who share a personal connection.

Dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, industry expertise, and exclusive connections with wineries and tasting rooms in Oregon’s Wine Country, the committed trio of Helen, Mark, and Jill will exceed your expectations, and are focused on delivering a memorable experience that you’ll be eager to share with friends and loved ones.

Option 1: Custom Crush Experience

Best option for smaller groups to explore The Willamette Valley

(Accommodating up to 6 guests)

Option 2: Magnum Experience

Can’t keep it under 6? Select our larger group option

(Accommodating 7 to 14 guests)

Option 3: Hourly Driving Service

For groups that just need a driver for the day

(Accommodating up to 14 guests)

16 Wineries. 4 Days. The Ultimate Willamette Valley Wine Tasting Itinerary

By Michelle Bainbridge, Contributing Writer

Planning a getaway to Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country ? You should.

In just 30 years, this Pacific-Northwest wine region has become known for world-class Pinot Noir . Prior to being one of the top wine destinations in the United States, the agriculture in the Willamette Valley was primarily orchards, Christmas trees, farmland and it is still the largest hazelnut producer in the world. Today, there are more 500 wineries in Willamette Valley and 20,000 acres of vines planted, making it a challenge for wine lovers to pick where to sip.

On my last visit, we spent four days exploring the region and were able to comfortably visit 16 wineries in Willamette Valley, allowing 1-2 hours at each. This four day itinerary will keep you focused and will provide some of the top tasting experiences in Willamette Valley.

To make efficient use of your time, I have grouped wineries into sub regions that can be visited in a day. Schedule your appointments 2-3 hours apart, no more than four appointments per day, starting at 10 am (or 11 on Sundays) and ending around 6 pm. This schedule will allow you to “drop in” on some additional wineries and take time for a picnic lunch.

But first…Where to stay and how to get around Willamette Valley

The small town of Dundee is an excellent base for your wine adventures in Willamette Valley. It is centrally located with a few restaurants and wineries within walking distance. We all know that wine tasting and driving will not mix, so just don’t do it. Be sure to schedule your car and driver well in advance. You will want to be able to completely enjoy this “rigorous” tasting schedule.

I personally recommend Pinotcar.com . They have vehicles comfortable enough for 4-8 persons and excellent, personable staff. If you are traveling with friends I recommend sharing the cost of a private home. For options in the area you can always use your favorite home-share company or, avoid the middle man and book directly with Lifestyle Properties they are the local experts.

When you arrive from the airport, head straight for the Red Hills Market for a substantial lunch. I know it sounds like a place you could stock up the fridge for your rental home, but alas it really is just a restaurant. Or, head into Newberg for grocery shopping. Speaking of shopping… be sure to stop by Northwest Fresh Seafood Market for the freshest selection of local fish. If you are lucky the King Salmon will be in season, it will pair perfectly with one of those bottles of Pinot Noir you will inevitably bring back each evening. Skip the Safeway and head to the Fred Meyer store, also in Newberg, it is really a shoppers’ playground with great produce.

Now let’s get to sipping through wineries in Willamette Valley…

Wine tasting in willamette valley: dundee hills ava, day one & two.

Antica Terra – Appointments only at 1:30 and 3:30 tastings. This is a winery you probably have not heard of, and you may have difficulty finding it even as you are staring right at it! Without solicitation, several sommeliers in Portland raved about this winery and the winemaker, Maggie Harrison. This is a true oenophile experience and collectors’ choice, as you will be tasting Antica Terra wines side-by-side with European wines of excellent pedigree, from importer Neal Rosenthal. All the European wines are limited release and available for sale. The tasting takes place in a beautifully appointed part of the barrel room, dress for cool temperatures. I guarantee the experience will exceed your expectations.

Argyle Winery – Named by the locals as “Best Winery”, I suspect for their sparkling wines. This is a good option for a “drop in” the Tasting House is open until 7 pm. Thursday-Sunday during the summer. If you would like a seated tasting, please call or write for a reservation. Pick up some sparkling wine to serve as your palate-refresher.

Duck Pond Cellars – One of the best value wineries. I predict you will leave here having met your new “week-day” Pinot Noir best friend. Still family-owned and run since 1993. Drop in or reserve the “Vineyard to Glass” tasting experience.

Archery Summit – Schedule a private tour of the gravity-flow winery and the barrel caves with a tasting of exclusive and single-vineyard wines. This winery now sells most of its wine exclusively through their wine club. Membership in this club is highly recommended. The views, on a clear day are fantastic.

De Ponte Cellars – This is one of the Willamette Valley wineries we would not have experienced if it were not for our driver and his local knowledge. There is one picnic table with a beautiful view for you to enjoy your packed lunch with a bottle of lovely Rosé from the tasting room.

Domaine Drouhin – Reserve the “French Soul, Oregon Soil” Comparative tasting experience. You will be able to taste the Drouhin Burgundies from France alongside the Oregon wines. What a tasting discovery. You may be surprised at which will be your favorite. A tour of the winery is also included and you will be treated to a cheese board.

Domaine Serene – Reserve the “Prestige” tasting in the new (opened in 2017), expansive, luxury “clubhouse”. Your dedicated host will provide you a wealth of in-depth information, ours was a master at the geology of the vineyards. Meat and cheese boards are available for purchase. Be sure to try the white Pinot Noir, I totally “geeked out” over this wine.

Willamette Valley Wineries to Sip In Dundee

Four Graces – Purple Hands – Panther Creek Cellars – Dobbs Family Estate – Hawkins Cellars – Evening Land – Dundee Hills

Get the Full Oregon Wine Country Travel Guide

Willamette valley wine tasting: chehalem mountains & ribbon ridge avas.

Bergstrom Winery – Reserve a private, seated tasting of the estate and single-vineyard wines. Your dedicated host will walk you through a great deal of information. You will have more white wines here than at the previous days wineries, what a great start to your day. Dress warm, as the tasting takes place on the open-air patio.

Beaux Freres – By appointment only. Your “classic” tasting will take place standing at the tasting bar in the winery, it will be cool. This tasting is not a very long visit. There are other options for longer, more exclusive wine tastings with winery tours.

Ayers Vineyard – Here you will experience a true “garagista” winery (a winery in the garage). Be sure to contact Kathleen McElroy to arrange a tasting with the winemaker (husband, Ben). You will not have a more personal experience in any tasting room, anywhere. Be sure to come prepared with you most technical winemaking questions, they will surely be answered here. These wines take advantage of the marine sedimentary soils found in Ribbon Ridge vineyards which are dry-farmed according to the rules of the “DRC” – Deep Roots Coalition.

Eminent Domaine – Located at the top of Ribbon Ridge, you will likely be greeted by owner/winemaker Jeff Meader at the newly constructed, contemporary architecture tasting room. I hope you get as excited about these wines as I did. With his recent spate of 90+ point reviews in the Wine Spectator, I recommend joining his wine club immediately, before the wines are sold out forever. This is a great place to enjoy your picnic lunch. The views across towards the ocean are iconic. We would not have found this winery, if it were not for the suggestion of our driver, what a treat!

Ken Wright Cellars- This tasting room is housed in a former train station. Try to schedule this on a day when Ken can greet you. There are a lot of wines to taste through. The variety is a result of numerous single-vineyard bottlings; each showcasing the particular terroir of the area. Ken believes in minimal intervention in each of his wines.

Willamette Valley Wineries in Proximity

Adelsheim – Brick House Winery – Fairsing Winery (spectacular viewpoint) – J Christopher – Willakenzie Estate

Willamette Valley Wine Tasting: Eola-Amity Hills AVA

Van Duzer – You will drive almost an hour from Dundee to reach this winery, be sure to allow plenty of time in your schedule. This winery is all about the Van Duzer corridor; a geological gap in the hills that allows the cool afternoon breezes to reach inland from the ocean to the west. You will probably recognize the Art Nouveau labels featuring Zephyra, the Goddess of the West Winds. Of course, you will find a variety of Pinot Noirs for tasting, but also some lovely white varietals.

Left Coast Cellars – A classic “hippy” winery with wood-fired oven pizzas, made to order. The tasting room staff is quite knowledgeable, although a bit gruff.  Enjoy your tasting with your pizza for lunch.

St. Innocent – If you have the good fortune of sitting down with owner/winemaker Mark Vlossak, you will leave with a wealth of knowledge that will tie all the bullet-points you have collected over the previous days together in a neat package. He shared a cohesive, personal story of the history of the winery along with a tasting of all the wines available that day. You must write to them ahead of time to receive a special visit.

Cristom – Steve Dorner has been the winemaker and vineyard manager at Cristom for over 25 years. I had the pleasure of meeting him at a wine tasting in Colorado and saved his business card. This is an example of how shaking hands can turn into a special experience, that was not necessarily planned ahead of time.

Bethel Heights Vineyard – Redhawk Vineyards – Evesham Wood Vineyard

Things to Know Before You Go Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley…

Make sure to pack a lunch in advance, as there are very few places to purchase food when you are deep in wine country. There are several delis and grocery stores in the town of Dundee and Newberg where you can call something in ahead of time and pick it up on your way out. Or, simply stop into one of the local stores before your day of sipping begins.

A note about tasting appointments; keep them and be on time. These wineries in Willamette Valley are devoting dedicated time and resources to your party, please be respectful. Willamette Valley is unique in its hospitality, you will have a “host” assigned to you and you will receive a quality education at each winery. That is why you will be investing at least an hour at each appointment.

Oregon Wine Country Travel Guide

Michelle Bainbridge

Michelle Bainbridge has had a career in wine sales and marketing and continues to be involved in wine education and wine-focused travel. Visit her blog at wheresthewineblog.com .

Come see us at Domaine Roy on your next visit! Cheers!

Great article! Thanks for all the tips.

Comments are closed.

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Srn member links, which wines pair well with … salmon.

White and red with fish? Here are two top grape varieties to enjoy with versatile salmon, delicious recipes and other suggested matches

We like culinary rules because they guide us and help preserve order. But every rule comes with valid exceptions. For example: white wine with fish, red wine with meat. Good rule, but only to a point. Salmon has enough body and earthiness to justify both the rule and the exceptions.

Whether your tastes lean to red or white, with a versatile food like salmon, you can be dynamic and choose a recipe (or “wine-tune” one) to align with your wine preference. Along with looking for wines that are similar in body or “weight” to the food, this set of recipes encourages you to explore some other guidelines for wine-and-food pairing , including working with complementary or contrasting flavors to emphasize certain characteristics in the food or wine, matching the wine with the sauce , cooking with the same wine you’ll be drinking (or vice versa) and pairing food with a wine from the same region.

What White Wine Goes Best with Salmon?

Crispy salmon with melted leeks and beurre blanc.

The classic French sauce for rich salmon is a similarly creamy beurre blanc (butter and white wine) with a bright lemon lift. At Russell and Desta Klein’s Meritage in St. Paul , the fish is presented simply, with melted leeks for a mild onion kick. The skin side of the salmon is crisped for a nice textural contrast.

The Flavors and Texture of the Food

Because of its meaty, lightly earthy flavors, salmon is often seen as the fish for people who don’t like fish. In this dish, the sauce is a textural match of “like to like,” with light lemon and leek accents.

Winning White Wine Pairing: White Burgundy

Use the like-to-like trick for wine too, by choosing a rich, medium- to full-bodied, creamy Chardonnay from France’s Burgundy region, with balanced oak and a little apple or citrus acidity to sing along with what’s on the plate. You could sub in a Chard from elsewhere (it’s grown all over the world, from California to Australia) but avoid heavily oaked versions, which can overwhelm the dish’s relatively mild, direct flavors.

Our Editors' Recommended White Burgundy Wines

• The J.-A. Ferret Pouilly-Fuissé 2020 (90 points, $64) is delicate, yet vibrant, marked by citrus and spice aromas and flavors.

• The Louis Latour Pouilly-Vinzelles En Paradis 2021 (89, $40) veers riper and fuller, with peach, lemon cake and vanilla, flecked with mineral and spice notes.

• The Albert Bichot Bourgogne Côte d'Or White Secret de Famille 2021 (88, $38) is firm and long, with apple, lemon and stony flavors.

Find more recently rated white Burgundies in our Wine Ratings Search .

How to Make Crispy Salmon with Melted Leeks and Beurre Blanc

Recipe courtesy of chef Russell Klein

Ingredients

For the leeks:

• 3 to 4 pounds (about 3 large) leeks
• 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 1 sprig thyme
• 4 sprigs parsley
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
• Salt and white pepper

For the beurre blanc:

• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the salmon:

• 4 skin-on salmon fillets, 6 ounces each
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons canola oil or your favorite neutral cooking oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (reserved in separate halves)
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot (reserved in separate halves)
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme (reserved in separate halves)

Preparation

1. Trim the leeks of their dark green outer leaves; these can be used for stocks or discarded. Halve leeks lengthwise, then slice 1/8-inch thick. Place leeks in a bowl of cold water and agitate, letting any dirt sink to the bottom. Repeat if needed. Drain and lightly pat dry. (It’s OK if some moisture remains.)

2. Using kitchen twine, tie the thyme, parsley sprigs and bay leaf into a bouquet garni. In a medium saucepot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the leeks and season with salt and a bit of pepper. Add the bouquet garni. Stir the leeks to coat in butter, turn heat to low and cover. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are very tender, about 45 minutes. Add the chopped thyme and salt to taste. The leeks can be made in advance and reheated.

3. Place the wine and shallot in a small saucepot. Boil until the wine is reduced to 1 to 2 tablespoons. Add the cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat, let sit for 1 minute, and whisk in 1 cube butter. Return the pot to stovetop over low heat. Add 1 cube butter at a time, whisking constantly to form a smooth emulsion. Do not allow the sauce to boil. Once an emulsion has formed, you can add the butter a few cubes at a time, continuing to whisk constantly. When all the butter is incorporated, season with salt, pepper and lemon juice to taste. You can strain the shallots out or leave them in for texture. Set aside in a warm but not hot place, covered.

4. Preheat the oven to 400° F. Pat the skin of the salmon fillets dry. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Place an oven-safe nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Dust the skin side of 2 fillets with the flour. Add 1 tablespoon canola oil to the hot pan and immediately add the 2 floured fillets, skin-side down. Lower heat to medium and cook for about 4 minutes, until the skin begins to brown. Transfer skillet to the oven and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the flesh begins to turn opaque. Return the skillet to the stove and add half the butter, shallot and thyme. When the butter has begun to melt, tip the pan and use a spoon to baste the fish with the cooking liquid for about 30 seconds. Flip the salmon and “kiss” the flesh side to the pan for about 10 seconds, then transfer to a warm plate and cover loosely. Carefully wipe out the skillet and repeat this step with the remaining 2 fillets.

6. Place a generous 1/2 cup of melted leeks in the center of each plate. Place the salmon on the leeks and pour beurre blanc around the fish. Serves 4.

What Red Wine Goes Best with Salmon?

Wild Salmon Tournedos with Caramelized Turnips and Pinot Noir Sauce

Here we make an about face, building a salmon dish around a red wine match. French-born chef Thierry Rautureau, formerly of Rover’s and other restaurants in Seattle (he sadly passed away in 2023), started with a fish stock and Pinot Noir reduction to build a bridge to the glass.

The Flavors of the Food

In this case, the sauce takes the protein in a new direction while also providing a direct link to the wine; the wine match is built in. The turnips provide a lightly sweet and minerally counterpoint.

Winning Red Wine Pairing: Pinot Noir

Perhaps the clearest, most direct matches are those in which the same wine used in the dish is poured alongside it. Pinot Noir—which produces a medium-bodied, not very tannic wine with moderate acidity—is a leading grape in the Pacific Northwest, so Rautureau went with an Oregon wine for his wild Pacific salmon.

While Pinots from California tend to be riper, fruitier and fuller than those from Burgundy, Oregon wines often strike a balance between those two styles. The wines are substantial enough to stand up to the rich salmon meat (and vice versa) without overwhelming it. (However, steer away from bigger, more tannic styles such as young Cabernet Sauvignon.)

Our Editors' Recommended Pinot Noir Wines

• The Argyle Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Estate Reserve 2022 (93 points, $40) is rich but refined, with berry flavors joined by notes of spice and earth.

• The Bethel Heights Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills Estate 2022 (92, $36) is driven by acidity, which carries the berry and spice flavors.

• The Soter Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Planet Oregon 2022 (90, $24) is vibrant and zesty, with cherry, pomegranate, tea and spice flavors.

Find more Oregon Pinot Noir reviews at our Wine Rating Search .

How to Make Wild Salmon Tournedos with Caramelized Turnips and Pinot Noir Sauce

• 1-pound wild king salmon fillet, skin, pin bones and dark flesh removed
• Salt and freshly ground white pepper
• 12 ounces small turnips, peeled
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, 4 of them cut into pieces and chilled
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 bottle of Pinot Noir
• 1/2 cup fish stock, vegetable stock or bottled clam juice
• 4 shallots, chopped
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 fresh bay leaf, partly torn

1. Place the salmon on a board, with the thinner belly side of the fillet on the right. Butterfly the salmon with a slender, sharp knife, by cutting into the fillet about halfway between the highest point and the bottom on the belly side. Cut horizontally toward the opposite, thicker, side of the fillet. Stop about half an inch from the end, and unfold, making one long piece of roughly even thickness.

2. Turn the fillet piece over so that the cut surface now faces down, and so that the fillet points away from you lengthwise. Starting at the bottom, roll the fillet up to the midpoint where there is a natural break that, with minimal effort, separates the fillet into two pieces.

3. Set aside the first piece and repeat with the remaining piece. Set the two cylinders on the work surface, seam-side down. Using kitchen string, securely tie each cylinder twice so that when each cylinder is cut in half, the string will be in the middle of each of 4 tournedos. Trim the ends of the cylinder, if necessary, to make them even, then cut each cylinder in half. Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until you have prepared the sauce and it has reached a boil.

4. Halve or quarter any larger turnips, if needed, to create relatively even sizes. Put 2 tablespoons of the unchilled butter in a medium skillet and cook over medium heat until foamy. Add the turnips, with a good pinch each of salt and pepper, and toss well. Cook for about 2 minutes, then sprinkle the sugar over and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the turnips are tender and nicely caramelized, 3 to 5 minutes longer. Set aside in the skillet to reheat before serving.

5. For the sauce, combine the wine, stock, shallots, thyme and bay leaf in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and reduce by three-quarters, about 30 minutes. Strain the sauce into a small saucepan. Just before serving, gently whisk in the chilled butter, one piece at a time, so that it melts into a creamy sauce. Keep warm in a water bath over very low heat.

6. Preheat the oven to 350° F.

7. Put the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a 9-inch, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat until the butter turns medium-brown, with a slightly nutty aroma. Add the salmon and cook until nicely browned, but no more than 2 minutes total. Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook until the salmon is medium-rare, 2 to 3 minutes.

8. Put the salmon on a warm plate and remove the strings with a sharp knife or scissors. Warm the caramelized turnips over medium heat. Place the turnips just off-center in each of 4 plates. Lean the salmon against the turnips, and spoon the sauce around the salmon. Serve warm. Serves 4.

More Wines to Try with Salmon

• Matches for grilled salmon: Red, rosé, sparkling and white wines

• Matches for salmon in light to medium sauces: White wines

• Matches for salmon in rich sauces: Red and white wines

More Salmon Recipes to Pair with Chardonnay

• Roast Salmon with Fennel and Charred Onion Sauce

• Roasted King Salmon and Crayfish Butter

More Salmon Recipes to Pair with Pinot Noir

• Baked Salmon Three Ways Changing up the glaze on salmon can point the fish toward Pinot Noirs from different parts of the world, each with its own personality. Try blackberry glaze with a California Pinot Noir, mushroom glaze with an Oregon Pinot Noir and miso glaze with a red Burgundy.

• Honey-Glazed Salmon with Sautéed Kale and Wakame

• Find more salmon recipes in our Recipe Search.

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Willamette Valley Wine Tour 2023: Top 10 Winieries to Visit

As Oregon’s leading wine region, the Willamette Valley is home to two-thirds of the state’s vineyards and wineries. There are almost 700 wineries in the area, many of which produce some of the best Pinot Noir you’ll find in the world.

Willamette Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers, so if you’re planning on heading up to this state for a day or two of wine tasting , here are the top Willamette Valley wineries you need to visit.

What Wine Is Willamette Valley Known For?

Willamette Valley is Oregon’s biggest wine region, and the most popular wine you’ll find here is Pinot Noir. However, the region is also well-known for Pinot Gris , Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Riesling.

The Willamette Valley has a fairly mild climate throughout the year, with relatively hot, dry summers, and cold, wet winters. Its temperate climate provides the right conditions for Pinot Noir grapes, as well as other cool-climate varietes. In fact, the hot, dry summers and cooler evenings speed up the ripening of the vines.

However, the wet weather during winter and fall means that grapes that require longer time to ripen, such as Sauvignon Blanc, are challenging to grow.

While the Valley is known for its fertile soils, many of the vineyards found here are nestled within the hills, where the ground is slightly less fertile but has less risk of developing frost. The soils in the hills of Willamette Valley are a result of ancient lava flows and tectonic shifts, giving them a vibrant red color.

Top 10 Best Willamette Valley Wineries

Now that you know a little more about the type of wines you’ll come across in Willamette Valley, here’s the best Willamette Valley wineries you need to drop by.

Willamette Valley Vineyards: Stunning Views

• Address: 8800 Enchanted Way SE Turner, OR 97392
• Website: https://www.wvv.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-588-9463

Willamette Valley Vineyards is perhaps the most famous winery in the region, boasting striking views and outstanding wines. It features a spacious patio, charming courtyard, and majestic 65-foot lookout tower, all of which provide a peaceful setting to drink wine in.

The winery is open daily for tastings, but bookings are highly recommended as it can get busy. A daily flight costs $15 per person, while a reserve flight costs $20 per person. A tasting experience lasts for 90 minutes and includes an explanation of the winery’s intriguing history.

You can also enjoy some delicious food made by the winery’s award-winning head chef. All ingredients are locally sourced to ensure you receive only the highest quality and freshest dishes.

Willamette Valley Vineyards offers various other wine experiences, including Pairings Exploration, private tastings and tours, and Pairings Wine Dinners. The winery also hosts a range of events throughout the year, like an annual harvest celebration.

Editor’s Note: If you get the chance, book one of the winery’s Pairings Exploration experiences. It features a selection of wines that match the flavor profiles of 4 small plates prepared by their award-winning chef. A knowledgeable winery attendant will then talk you through each pairing.

Argyle Winery: Gorgeous Tasting House

• Address: 691 OR-99W, Dundee, OR 97115
• Website: https://argylewinery.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-538-8520

Next up is the enchanting Argyle Winery, located in the heart of the Willamette Valley. The winery produces a variety of world-class Oregon wines but are most well-known for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sparkling Wine .

The welcoming and modern tasting house provides a peaceful atmosphere to sip and sample wines. It even features an estimable library of the winery’s reserve wines, dating back to 1987 when Argyle Winery first opened.

Events like club member parties, brunches, and more take place at Argyle Winery on a regular basis, so be sure to check what next exciting event they have planned for your visit.

Flights and experiences range from $30 to $75, but glass pours are also available. In addition, the winery is available to host private events.

There is plenty of outdoor space, including a stunning garden that is home to west coast native plants, oak trees, evergreen trees, and shrubs.

Editor’s Note: The winery’s 2019 Nuthouse Pinot Noir has a luxurious and fruit expression, which only enhances over time.

Lemelson Vineyards: Spacious Patio

• Address: 12020 NE Stag Hollow Rd, Carlton, OR 97111
• Website: https://www.lemelsonvineyards.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-852-6619

Lemelson Vineyards is another top-quality winery in Willamette Valley, offering picturesque views, an inviting tasting room, and delicious wine.

Tastings cost $25 per person but are complimentary for wine club members and with a 2-bottle purchase. You’ll enjoy a flight of 5 to 6 wines, which you can sip either inside or outside in the winery’s stunning 3-level patio.

There is plenty of seating outside, as well as picnic blanket areas, and a warm wood-burning fire on the patio. The evergreen trees and rolling hills outside make for a charming and natural atmosphere so you can enjoy your wine in pure bliss.

Editor’s Note: The 2018 Reserve Chardonnay is sourced from the Chestnut Hill Vineyard, which has volcanic soils. This gives it a crisp and natural acidity with a long and mineral finish. It’s even better when shared with friends and family!

Domaine Drouhin Oregon: Delightful Atmosphere

• Address: 6750 NE Breyman Orchards Rd, Dayton, OR 97114
• Website: https://domainedrouhin.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-864-2700

Domaine Drouhin Oregon uses winemaking traditions from France to create phenomenal Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The expansive estate is filled with lush trees and vineyards, which provides a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere.

Tastings are available daily, but you’ll need to book in advance. There are a couple of tasting options to choose from, such as the Domaine Drouhin Oregon experience and the Range Chocolate Flight. The latter pairs well with the standard tasting experience and is the perfect choice for chocolate lovers.

Editor’s Note: The 2018 Edition Limitée Pinot Noir is one of the winery’s standout wines. It has tantalizing aromas of dried flowers, crushed stone, fennel, and boysenberry, with luxurious flavors of blackberry, Mirabelle plums, and shaved chocolate. Sublime!

Youngberg Hill Inn & Winery: Fantastic Tours

• Address: 10660 SW Youngberg Hill Rd, McMinnville, OR 97128
• Website: https://youngberghill.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-472-2727

Established in 1989, Youngberg Hill Inn & Winery is a family-owned and operated winery that makes some of the finest wines in Willamette Valley. It’s surrounded by vineyards, the Eola-Amity mountain range, and the Cascades.

On sunny days, you can even spot Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Hood! The tasting room is open each day for wine tastings, of which there are various options. The standard experience costs $20 per person but is complimentary for inn guests and club members.

One of the best features of this winery is its fascinating tours. You’ll drive through the winery’s gorgeous vineyards and learn more about the winery’s history and winemaking process. At the end of the tour, you’ll be treated to a personalized wine flight underneath a gazebo.

If you’re thinking of staying a night or two in Willamette Valley, the winery’s cozy inn is the perfect place to stay. There are various suites to choose from, all of which are well-presented, ultra modern, and come with a gourmet breakfast each morning.

Youngberg Hill Inn & Winery is also available to hire out for private events like birthday parties, weddings, and bridal showers. The peaceful setting and beautiful estate will make for an unforgettable day.

Editor’s Note: Featuring notes of wild berry, cooca, and freshly ground cinnamon, the 2018 Cuvée Pinot Noir is a must-try at this winery.

Adelsheim Winery: Stunning Seating Areas

• Address: 16800 NE Calkins Ln, Newberg, OR 97132
• Website: https://www.adelsheim.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-538-3652

Featuring jaw-dropping views and stellar wines, Adelsheim Winery provides a peaceful atmosphere and hard-to-beat tasting experience. You can enjoy your wine in one of the winery’s stunning seating areas, including a hilltop garden, patio, and cabana.

There are a range of tasting options to choose from, including Adelsheim Tasting and Adelsheim Estate Tasting. The latter includes a delicious combination of recent club releases, historic selections, and more.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to catch up with friends and family over a bottle or two of luxurious wine, you can’t go wrong with Adelsheim Winery.

Editor’s Note: One wine you definitely need to try at this winery is the 2020 Artist Series Rosé, with strong flavors of strawberries and cream twitch notes or mineral, citrus, and floral.

Brooks Wine: Award-winning Wines

• Address: 21101 SE Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity, OR 97101
• Website: https://www.brookswine.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-435-1278

Brooks Wines is an award-winning winery that produces a variety of magnificent wines, including Pinot Noir and Riesling. They were even recently crowned one of the top 100 wineries by Wine & Spirits magazine!

The winery has indoor and outdoor experiences, so you can relax inside a cozy tasting room or soak up the sun outside on the upstairs deck or pergola. Tastings cost $20 per person (waived with a 3-glass purchase) and include 6 samples of the winery’s spectacular wines.

Brook Wines also offers phenomenal walking tours of the garden and estate, giving you a deeper look into its history and winemaking process. There is also the Elevated Tasting & Tour experience, which includes a tour around the winery’s garden, barrel room, production hall, and plenty of samples of wine.

Editor’s Note: If you fancy an acidic and medium-dry wine, opt for the 2017 La Chenaie Riesling. It has aromas of honey and flavors of fruit, leading to acidity, tne ending with a long-lasting finish.

Winter’s Hill Estate: Great Hospitality

• Address: 6451 NE Hilltop Ln, Dayton, OR 97114
• Website: https://wintershillwine.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-864-4592

Known for its outstanding wines and hospitality, Winter’s Hill Estate is a remarkable winery to visit in the Willamette Valley. It’s surrounded by fields and forests, as well as an abundance of wildlife, which provides a natural and charming backdrop.

You can sip on scrumptious wine either inside the welcoming tasting room or the outside covered patio, complete with views of the Coastal Mountains. You’ll be treated to a flight of 5 estate-grown wines, priced at $25 per person (waived with any $100 purchase).

The winery also hosts a range of events throughout the year, so make sure you check what’s in store for your visit.

With its mouthwatering wines and enchanting atmosphere, this winery is a gorgeous place to visit with friends, family, or that special someone.

Editor’s Note: The 2018 Pearly Everlasting is a unique blend of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc, and is one to check out on your visit to this winery. The taste is fresh honeydew, citrus, and minerally. Delicious!

Rex Hill: Phenomenal Pinot Noir

• Address: 30835 OR-99W, Newberg, OR 97132
• Website: https://rexhill.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-538-0666

Rex Hill has been crafting exceptional Pinot Noir wine for over 35 years, so if you enjoy this varietal, you’ll no doubt appreciate what the winery has to offer. Rex Hill also produces a range of other wines, including Sparkling Wines and Chardonnay.

The recently renovated tasting room offers a warm and cozy atmosphere for sipping wine, but you can also enjoy a glass or bottle on the spacious patio. Small gourmet food items like cheeses, freshly-baked baguettes, and caviar are available too. These pair well with all of the winery’s marvelous wines.

Rex Hill can be rented out for private events, so if you’re looking for an enchanting venue with brilliant hospitality, the winery will make sure you and your guests have the best experience.

Editor’s Note: As this winery is known for its fantastic Pinot Noir, it seems only fitting to try the 2018 Reserve Pinot Noir. It has notes of various fruits, with flavors of cherry, fruit compote, and sweet pipe tobacco.

Chehalem Winery: Charming Ambiance

• Address: 106 South Center Street, Newberg, OR 97132
• Website: https://www.chehalemwines.com/
• Contact Number: (+1) 503-538-4700

Last but not least is the sublime Chehalem Winery, boasting a modern and rustic tasting room, relaxing guest houses for overnight stays, intriguing tours, and picturesque views.

Tastings cost $20 per person (waived with a $50 purchase) and include a flight of 6 single vineyard and reserve wines. You’ll be talked through each wine by one of the winery’s knowledgeable associates, while discovering more about the history and people of Chehalem.

The winery hosts exclusive wine club parties and live music, but they can also accommodate private events. Either the tasting room or den provides a tranquil and peaceful setting for small groups of up to 20, and is ideal for dinner parties, intimate birthday parties, and catch-ups with friends and family.

Editor’s Note: The winery’s 2018 Pinot Noir has won awards for its excellence, with juicy notes and flavors of blue and fruit fruits. The finish is velvety smooth and vibrant.

Also Read: Dundee Oregon Wine Tasting: Top 10 Wineries To Visit

Final Thoughts

The wineries above are some of the best in Willamette Valley, offering a relaxing and delicious experience that will have you craving for more, even after you’ve gone home.

Alternatively, if you’d rather treat yourself to a more private wine tasting, why not sign up for a wine club subscription like Naked Wines , Bright Cellars , and Winc ?

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11 Best Wineries in Oregon: Discover the Top Vineyards in Wine Country

Welcome to Oregon, where the wine flows as abundantly as the stunning landscapes!

Once known mainly for its pristine beaches, historic trails, and breathtaking waterfalls, Oregon has emerged as a true wine lover's paradise. In fact, Time Magazine just recently added Willamette Valley to its 2023 list of world's greatest places . The list hailed the Willamette Valley as "the new Napa," lauding its remarkable and vast array of wineries.

With a history dating back to the 1840s , when settlers on the Oregon Trail planted the first vines, the state's wine industry has come a long way.

Now boasting 725 wineries and over 1,000 vineyards growing 72 varieties of grapes, Oregon has truly made a name for itself in the world of wine.

And with 52% of Oregon wine made from estate-grown fruit, you know you're in for a genuine, homegrown experience.

So, let's raise a glass and discover the best wineries in Oregon, an unforgettable journey through this beautiful state's finest vineyards!

11 Best Wineries in Oregon

1. argyle winery.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Dundee, Northwestern Oregon, you'll find the celebrated Argyle Winery . With 400 acres of lush hillside spread across three vineyards, this winery gem has made a name for itself in crafting exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.

A visit to Argyle's historical tasting house lets you sip Chardonnay while soaking in the region's rich history. For a more contemporary experience, the winery's new tasting house features modern design elements and a selection of outstanding Pinot Noir.

Their outdoor patio is the perfect spot if you fancy savoring your wine amid the verdant vineyards. Argyle Winery is a treat for your taste buds and a steward of the environment, employing sustainable farming and harvesting techniques.

With a 4.3 rating from 260 Google reviews, this winery is undoubtedly one of the best wineries in Oregon for any wine enthusiast to explore.

2. Archery Summit Winery

Tucked away in the verdant hills of northwestern Oregon, Archery Summit Winery in Dayton is a must-visit destination for any Pinot Noir fan. With over 20 years of expertise in growing and perfecting Pinot Noir grapes, this winery combines skillful winemaking and environmentally conscious practices.

At Archery Summit, grapes are hand-picked and harvested using cutting-edge techniques, including the innovative gravity-flow process. This method lets gravity, rather than machinery, move the wine during production, resulting in a sweeter, smoother taste without the bitterness of tannins.

While building a gravity-flow winery may be more expensive, the exceptional quality of the wine makes it a worthwhile investment. Be sure to reserve your spot at Archery Summit's gorgeous tasting area, where you can savor their exquisite Pinot Noir amidst the stunning backdrop of Willamette Valley.

With a 4.6 rating from 98 Google reviews, Archery Summit Winery is undeniably among the best wineries in Oregon, offering an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.

3. Adelsheim Vineyard

Adelsheim Vineyard , established in 1971, envisioned creating world-class wines in an undiscovered wine region, the Chehalem Mountains of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. David and Ginny Adelsheim purchased their first 19 acres outside Newberg, Oregon, and planted their first rows of Pinot Noir, leading to the establishment of the Chehalem Mountains’ first winery in 1978. 

Today, Adelsheim produces an exquisite range of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir Magnum, and sparkling wines. Adelsheim has played an integral role in shaping the Oregon wine story as a founding winery of the Willamette Valley and the Chehalem Mountains. They have a LIVE certification, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, and have been recognized as a Wine & Spirits Top 100 Winery seven times. 

Experience their diverse estate vineyards and unique soil types by visiting Adelsheim Vineyard. With a rating of 4.5 from over 132 Google reviews, a visit to Adelsheim Vineyard promises an unforgettable experience.

4. King Estate Winery

Journey to the southern reaches of Willamette Valley near Eugene, Oregon, and you'll find the impressive King Estate Winery . Spanning over 1,000 acres of meticulously cultivated land, this winery is renowned for its Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Muscat, and Gewurztraminer.

As the country's leading producer of Pinot Gris, King Estate dedicates 314 acres to the growth and cultivation of this delightful grape variety. Moreover, King Estate holds the distinction of being the largest certified Biodynamic vineyard in North America, reflecting their commitment to organic grape production.

But the indulgence doesn't stop with their wines - King Estate also boasts a gourmet restaurant, serving exquisite meals made from ingredients sourced from their own gardens and beehives. You won't want to miss their incredible charcuterie boards, which pair perfectly with a refreshing glass of Pinot Gris wine.

Rated 4.4 with over 255 Google reviews, a visit to King Estate Winery offers an unparalleled experience, solidifying its place among the best wineries in Oregon.

5. Domaine Serene Winery

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting Domaine Serene Winery in Dayton, Oregon. This elegant, Mediterranean-style winery and tasting room boasts a stunning Tuscan villa-inspired setting and award-winning wines that consistently impress critics and enthusiasts.

With scores of 90-plus, their wines have earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence. As you explore the winery, you'll be enchanted by the scenic vineyard views, informative cellar tours, and the striking woolly mammoth sculpture crafted from weathered steel and adorned with bronze tusks, adding a unique touch to the atmosphere.

With a 4.5 rating from 285 Google reviews and a matching 4.5 from 627 TripAdvisor reviews, Domaine Serene Winery offers an unforgettable experience that positions it among the best wineries in Oregon. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Domaine Serene and its exceptional wines.

6. Elk Cove Vineyards

Get ready to be amazed by Elk Cove Vineyards , a true gem among Oregon's wineries! Founded way back in 1974 by Pat and Joe Campbell, this family-owned winery has grown into a seriously respected player in the wine scene. With over 380 acres spread across six unique sites in the northern Willamette Valley, the vineyards have the right conditions to produce top-notch wine grapes.

In 1995, Adam Campbell joined his folks to make the urban winery at Elk Cove a family affair, bringing his love for wine and a massive respect for the land along with him. And let me tell you, their wines have racked up some pretty impressive accolades! From their famous Pinot "trilogy" (Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc) to Riesling and even lesser-known varieties like Muscat Ottonel, there's something for everyone. They were named Winery of the Year by Wine & Spirits in 2013 and Pacific Northwest Winery of the Year by Wine Press Northwest in 2007!

And as if the great wines weren't enough, the views from Elk Cove's tasting room are absolutely stunning. With an excellent 4.8 rating from over 143 Google reviews, Elk Cove Vineyards is the perfect spot for anyone looking to experience the best wineries in Oregon. Trust me; you won't be disappointed!

7. De Ponte Cellars

Get ready to be wowed by De Ponte Cellars in the Dundee Hills of Dayton, Oregon. As one of the oldest vineyards in the state, this incredible winery is known for its Pinot noir grapes and the rare Melon grape, typically found in France. Can you believe it? They're producing these amazing Melon grapes right here in the US!

Because De Ponte Cellars grows this super rare grape, it's become a popular and unique spot for locals and travelers alike. The Melon grape gives us a delightful white wine in high demand. And let me tell you, this special white wine is their claim to fame! In a region dominated by Pinot noir grapes, De Ponte Cellars truly stands out with their Melon grapes.

You'll need a reservation to enjoy their tasting room, but trust me; it's worth it! Don't miss out on the chance to savor rare wine (even by Oregon standards!) and indulge in some fantastic Oregonian cheese. It's just heavenly! With a 4.8 rating from over 71 Google reviews, De Ponte Cellars is an unforgettable stop on your journey through the best wineries in Oregon.

8. Ponzi Vineyards

Prepare to be swept off your feet by Ponzi Vineyards in the charming town of Sherwood, Oregon. Established in 1970, this trailblazing winery played a massive role in turning the former Willamette Valley vineyards into the world-class wine region we know today. Let me tell you, their modern tasting room is nothing short of spectacular, with cozy fireside seating, a covered terrace, and even bocce ball courts!

Imagine this: you're experiencing an exclusive tableside tasting, taking in panoramic views of Avellana vineyard and the gorgeous surrounding valley. Sounds amazing, right? The tasting room is open for indoor and outdoor seated wine tastings by reservation, so you can make that dream a reality. They're so excited to have you back!

Treat yourself to a seasonal flight, a weekend Chef Pairing or a lovely glass pour with your friends, up to 8 guests, at this stylish hilltop tasting room just a 40-minute drive from Portland. Open daily from 11 am to 5:30 pm; reservations are recommended. With a solid 4.1 rating from over 217 Google reviews, Ponzi Vineyards is a must-visit destination on your journey through the best wineries in Oregon.

9. Bergstrom Wines

Discover the enchanting Bergstrom Wines , nestled in the Dundee Hills of the Willamette Valley. You'll immerse yourself in a fairytale-like setting as the vineyard shares its land with vibrant violets, lush chamomile, and brilliant red poppies. Though smaller in scale than other vineyards on this list, Bergstrom Wines refuses to compromise on taste and quality.

Producing around 10,000 cases annually, the winery specializes in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. For an extra-special experience, you can reserve a private wine tasting – perfect for a memorable date or outing with a loved one. If you are captivated by Bergstrom Wines' magic, consider joining their exclusive wine club to make this delightful spot a regular indulgence.

Imagine yourself in their cozy tasting room, gazing through the window at the mesmerizing views of brilliant red poppies, bold violets, and chamomile fields. With an impressive 4.9 rating from over 58 Google reviews, Bergstrom Wines stands out among the best wineries in Oregon.

10. Utopia Vineyard & Winery

Welcome to Utopia, a wonderful paradise located in the Oregon wine region. Since their inception, Utopia Vineyard and Winery has been producing Pinot noir that has won awards, giving them a reputation for producing superior wines of the highest caliber.

You'll be enchanted by their outstanding Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay in Newberg, Oregon, in the lovely Ribbon Ridge area. The grapes at Utopia are attentively cared for using a technique called "dry farming," which offers a harmonic fusion of robust flavors without compromising sustainability.

Dan Warnshuis, the proprietor of Utopia Vineyard and Winery, will personally meet you upon your arrival. He takes pleasure in interacting with new visitors in the tasting area, watching their reactions, and responding to their inquiries. Visitors keep coming back to Utopia because of its kind and welcoming atmosphere. Don't be surprised if you, too, find yourself longing to return for another delightful glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Be sure to pencil Utopia into your itinerary – with a 4.8 rating from over 59 Google reviews; this gem is not to be missed among the best pinot noir wineries in Oregon.

11. Domaine Drouhin Oregon

Discover the elegance of Domaine Drouhin , a remarkable winery nestled in the picturesque Dayton, Oregon. Established in 1988 by the renowned Burgundy producer Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine Drouhin has consistently garnered international acclaim for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Fourth-generation winemaker Véronique Drouhin-Boss expertly handcrafts these exquisite offerings, showcasing what Oregon has to offer.

Domaine Drouhin's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed – in November 2012; The Oregonian named it the Best Winery for Tastings in Oregon. The winery and its estate vineyard have earned LIVE Certification, a testament to their dedication to sustainable and responsible winemaking practices. With a 4.7 rating from over 179 Google reviews, Domaine Drouhin is an unmissable destination for wine enthusiasts seeking the finest wineries in Oregon.

Oregon's Willamette Valley is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts, boasting an incredible array of wineries offering the best terroir of the region. From the historic Argyle Winery, known for its exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wine, to the enchanting Domaine Serene with its picturesque Tuscan villa-style setting, Oregon wineries promise an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

As you explore the best wineries in Oregon, you'll be captivated by the diverse array of wines that grace the region, including the famed Oregon Pinot Noir and various other varietals. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or a casual enthusiast, Oregon's Willamette Valley is the perfect destination to discover these remarkable wineries' unique charm and flavors.

So, raise a glass and toast to the vibrant world of Oregon's wine country – your journey is just beginning.

What is the best wine region in Oregon?

The Willamette Valley , which is renowned for its distinct terroir, cool climate, and ideal growing conditions for many grape varietals, is the best wine region in Oregon.

What wine is famous in Oregon?

Due to the great growing circumstances in the area and the skill of the regional winemakers, Oregon is well known for its Pinot Noir, which is regarded as one of the best in the world.

Why is Oregon wine so expensive?

Due to characteristics including its small output, premium grapes, and exacting winemaking methods, Oregon wine can be pricey. The cost of land, labor, and equipment in the area can also affect how much wine costs overall.

What is the largest winery in Oregon?

The largest winery in Oregon is King Estate Winery, which is also the largest certified Biodynamic vineyard in North America and the nation's top producer of Pinot Gris.

Why is Pinot Noir so popular in Oregon?

Pinot Noir is so popular in Oregon because the region's cool climate and diverse terroir provide the perfect growing conditions for this delicate grape variety. The combination of these factors results in Oregon Pinot Noir wines that are uniquely expressive and highly regarded.

What other types of wine are produced in Oregon besides Pinot Noir?

Oregon is also known for producing Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, and Tempranillo, among others.

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THE 10 BEST Willamette Valley Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in willamette valley.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included)

2. Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Included

3. Willamette Valley Wine Tour - Full Day Tour

4. Willamette Valley Character Winery Tour

5. Explore the Wines of Oregon's Willamette Valley

6. Waterfalls & Wine Tour-Multnomah Falls,Vineyards,Hood River Combo

7. Willamette Valley Wine Tour from Portland (Tasting Fees Included)

8. Bed and Breakfast Wine Tour - Small Group, Joinable/Sharable

9. Private Customized Willamette Valley Wine Maker Tour with lunch

10. Small Group: Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (Tasting Fees Included)

11. Rolls-Royce Chauffeured All-inclusive Wine Tasting Tour

12. Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch

13. Afternoon Tour in Columbia Gorge Waterfall with Free Wine Tasting

14. Oregon Coast Tour and Wine Tasting From Portland- Full Day Tour

15. Oregon Wine Tour-Full Day Tour with Lunch Stop

16. Willamette Valley Wine Tour - For Private Groups

17. Private Wine Tours

18. Silver Falls Hike & Wine

19. Guided Jetboat Tour for Six -Private

20. Tour DeVine by Heli - Helicopter Wine Tour

21. Columbia Gorge Hike, Wine, & Discover

22. Private Wine Tour with Tastings from Eugene

23. Private Willamette Valley Wine Tour from Portland (All tasting fees included)

24. Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass

25. Private - Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (tasting fees included)

26. Private Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine included

27. Willamette Valley Wine Tasting from Portland

28. Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour

29. Private wine tour with local Sommelier.

30. Willamette Valley Pinot Noir & Wood Fired Pizza Pairing Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Charlee H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Just book it. Alex was the best. He was a cool dude and made the entire experience better for all of us. Highly recommend this trip to wine country. Read more Review of: Willamette Valley Wine Tour - Full Day Tour Written April 28, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch
• Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting
• Private Customized Willamette Valley Wine Maker Tour with lunch
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• All About You Luxury Wine Tours LLC
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10 Best Wineries to Visit in the Willamette Valley (+ Map & Helpful Tips)

P ortland, Oregon, is surrounded by so much natural beauty and fun things to do — from cascading waterfalls and lush hiking trails to sandy beaches and fruit orchards. However, there is one place you just can’t miss out on during a trip to Oregon — the Willamette Valley! 

The Willamette Valley is a wine-growing region that lies between Oregon’s Cascade Mountains and the Oregon Coast. The Willamette Valley stretches 100 miles long from Portland to Salem, and within its vast 3.5 million acres, you will find more than 700 wineries and 800 vineyards! 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

What Is the Willamette Valley Known For?  

The Willamette Valley is known as one of the top wine-growing destinations in the United States and is recognized as one of the premier destinations for Pinot Noir wine production in the world. The Willamette Valley is also known for growing Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Merlot. 

Willamette Valley Winery Map  

Exceptional wineries in the willamette valley  .

It would obviously be impossible to visit every single winery in the Willamette Valley on one trip to Portland, Oregon. So, to help make your decision easier, we’ve narrowed down the selection to a few of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley. Choose one (or a few!) wineries from this list to visit to see the best of what the Willamette Valley has to offer. 

1. Trisaetum Winery  

Trisaetum Winery is an award-winning winery and vineyard located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Founded in 2003, Trisaetum is owned and operated by James Frey and Andrea Lassa, who have dedicated their lives to creating world-class wines that express the beauty of the land they live and work on. Trisaetum is a name that combines the names of James and Andrea’s children, Tristen and Tatum. 

By focusing on terroir selection and sustainable farming practices, Trisaetum has achieved a high level of quality in their wines. The vineyards prioritize the preservation of natural habitats, employing sustainable practices such as dry-farming, avoiding herbicides and tilling, promoting bee-friendly viticulture, and hand-harvesting each cluster. The vineyard specializes in Pinot Noir, Riesling, Rose, and a variety of white blends. 

At Trisaetum, visitors can experience stunning views of rolling hillsides and lush greenery while tasting fantastic wines on their patio. Inside, you can view the beautiful art gallery of owner James Frey. The wine flights are carefully crafted to offer a perfect balance of their red and white wines. In addition to wine, spirits are also produced on the Trisaetum property and can be tasted! 

Trisaetum’s commitment to sustainability and breathtaking views make them the perfect choice for anyone looking for an exceptional wine experience and one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley. 

• Address: 18401 NE Ribbon Ridge Rd, Newberg, OR  97132 
• Tasting Cost: $30 – $40 per person 
• Reservations Required: No, but recommended 

Contributed by Kelsea from Out of Office Mindset  

2. Brick House Vineyards  

Brick House Vineyards is a biodynamic vineyard and winery in the heart of the Willamette Valley, and one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley. We loved the personal and “one-on-one” experience at this winery. 

When you arrive, you will be greeted by a member of the winemaking team who will give you a tour through the barn-turned-winery to see where the estate-grown wines are made. Then, you will be led through a seated tasting on the beautiful patio, where you can try current-release wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Gammy Noir. 

Tastings at Brick House can be scheduled from Wednesday – Saturday. You can also schedule a vineyard tour with your tasting to have a chance to explore the estate for $60 per person. 

• Address: 18200 Lewis Rogers Lane, Newberg, Oregon 97132 
• Tasting Cost: $30 – $60 per person 
• Reservations Required: Yes 

3. Domaine Roy & Fils  

Domaine Roy & Fils is one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley for an elevated tasting experience with stunning views of the Dundee Hills. This winery has a strong commitment to organic farming and creating wines with purity and transparency. 

Domaine Roy & Fils is open from 11 AM – 5 PM every day and offers three wine-tasting experiences: Origin Tasting, Iron + Quartz Tasting, and Heritage Tasting. Each experience offers something unique to accommodate every interest, palette, and budget. 

The Origin Tasting is a 60-minute tasting of Pinot Noirs and costs $40 per person. The Iron + Quartz Tasting is a 60-minute experience and includes a curated flight of wines, including Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, for $60 per person. The Heritage Tasting is a 90-minute experience that includes a tour of the vineyard and wine cellar, an in-depth tasting, and a charcuterie board for $100 per person. 

• Address: 8351 Northeast Worden Hill Road, Dundee, OR 97115 
• Tasting Cost: $40 – $100 per person 

4. Sokol Blosser Winery  

There are lots of wineries to choose from in the Willamette Valley, but one you won’t want to miss is Sokol Blosser Winery , situated between the towns of Dayton and Dundee. It’s a perfect stop on any  Oregon road trip and one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley! 

Sokol Blosser was started in 1971 when Susan Sokol and Bill Blosser first planted vines in Oregon’s Dundee Hills – long before the area would become an AVA. Now a second-generation family-owned winery, Sokol Blosser crafts wines from certified organic grapes with a focus on sustainability. They are most known for their Pinot Noir but also make Chardonnay, White Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and sparkling wines under two labels. 

You can take a tour of the vineyard and winery in Dayton, or simply visit the modern tasting from 10 AM – 4 PM. The tasting room offers up incredible views of the hillside vineyard and the surrounding Dundee Hills, and guided tastings last an impressive 75 minutes. Enjoy a Butcher’s Board along with the views as you work your way through a tasting flight. Just note that reservations for tastings and required and can be made online. 

• Address: 5000 NE Sokol Blosser Lane, Dayton, OR 97114
• Tasting Cost: $35 per person 

Contributed by Amanda from A Dangerous Business Travel Blog  

5. Cooper Mountain Vineyard  

Cooper Mountain Vineyards is a family-owned, biodynamic, organic winery that took root in the Willamette Valley in 1978. This winery is just 25 minutes from Downtown Portland, so it is really easy to reach if you are staying in the city. 

Cooper Mountain Vineyards hosts all their tastings under a shaded haven under an oak grove right next to one of the vineyards. It is perfect for tastings in all weather — rain or shine! If you have children, they are allowed to accompany you during the tasting, but they must always stay with you. The tasting is very informative and lasts for 75 minutes. 

We loved the Outdoor Haven Tasting and felt like we were able to sample a generous amount of wine for the tasting price. If you are interested in a private tasting, you can book a 75-minute Indoor Rustic Barn Tasting at a private table for an additional cost.  

• Address: 20121 SW Leonardo Lane, Beaverton, OR 97007 
• Tasting Cost: $25 per person 
• Reservations Required: No, but highly recommended 

6. Stoller Family Estate  

Stoller Family Estate is one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley for its rich history. The Stoller Family established the property in 1943 and turned it into a vineyard 50 years later — and it still has the same family-friendly feel, with children and well-behaved dogs allowed to tag along with their parents. 

Stoller Family Estate offers a 90-minute wine-tasting experience for $25 per person from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily in the Heritage Tasting Room. The tasting includes five wines, and you can choose to order lunch or snacks to enjoy from the family-style lunch menu. 

If you are looking for somewhere to relax, you can enjoy the Stoller Lawn on a beautiful sunny day — you can purchase wine and food from Stoller Family Estate and enjoy the lawn games provided (or bring your own). 

• Address: 16161 NE McDougall Rd, Dayton, OR 97114 
• Reservations Required: No, but strongly recommended 

7. Andante Vineyard  

Andante Vineyard is a family-owned winery situated in the Van Duzer Corridor AVA of Oregon’s  Willamette Valley . The star of their wines is the Sauvignon Blanc, which is not commonly produced in the region. In addition to regional staples like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Andante also plants niche crops such as Aligoté, which has become very popular.  

Andante offers visitors the chance to taste their delicious wines through a wine tasting or a full experience with food pairings on Wednesday – Monday from 11:00 AM – 5 PM. Tastings include a flight of six estate wines, which can be enjoyed inside the rustic tasting room or outside on the new patio. They also regularly host events such as concerts, special wine-pairing dinners, and cooking classes. 

Andante Vineyard is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to unwind in a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views while tasting the estate wines and learning about the wine-making process. The winery’s commitment to organic and sustainable practices is also a great reason to visit. Andante’s excellent hospitality, relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful location make it the perfect spot for a special occasion or an afternoon getaway. 

• Address: 3855 Morris Road, Dallas, Oregon 97338 
• Tasting Cost: $20 per person 
• Reservations Required: Strongly recommended

Contributed by Michelle from Intentional Travelers  

8. Lemelson Vineyards  

Lemelson Vineyards is one of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley for sweeping vineyard views and refreshing wines. Lemelson Vineyards produces primarily Pinot Noirs and select white wines, including Pinot Gris and Riesling. 

Lemelson Vineyards is open for tastings from 11 AM – 4 PM daily. Tastings are hosted inside or on an outdoor patio. Well-behaved pets and outside food are permitted on the outdoor patio, so book an outside tasting if you would like to bring snacks to munch on with your wine. 

The tasting costs $30 per person and includes five wines. Lemelson Vineyards also hosts special events, so keep your eye on their calendar! 

• Address: 12020 NE Stag Hollow Rd, Carlton, OR 97111 
• Tasting Cost: $30 per person 

9. Compris Vineyard  

Compris Vineyard is a 12.5-acre vineyard nestled in the Willamette Valley, less than an hour’s drive from the capital, and perfect for a  Portland weekend getaway . Previously called Vidon Vineyard, the family decided to sell the business in 2022. The new owners, Dru and Erin Allen renamed the enterprise Compris, which is French for “included, understood.” Compris celebrates its first anniversary on May 27–28th, 2023 

Compris Vineyard transports visitors back to the earth, with the rows of earth embroidered with vines. The region’s varying climate and diversity of soil characterize its Chehalem Mountain AVA vineyard. Tasting flights cost $30 for the “nuanced and complex wines,” and reservations for tastings are recommended for weekends. They are conducted in the production space of the estate vineyard. Compris Vineyard grows a variety of grape varietals. The vineyard is open three days a week, Friday through Sunday, with three separate daily tastings. 

After your tasting, purchase a bottle of wine and go out to relax on the rolling lawn and stare at the mountains. The outdoor gazebo can accommodate up to five people, and blankets and heaters are available on chilly days. Don’t forget to bring your pup — well-behaved dogs are welcome on a leash. 

• Address: 17425 NE Hillside Drive, Newberg, Oregon 

Contributed by Terri from Female Solo Trek  

10. Willamette Valley Vineyards  

Willamette Valley Vineyards is one of the largest, oldest, and most established wineries in Oregon, founded in 1983. At the Estate Tasting Room, you can enjoy spectacular wine flights and other exceptional services and tours. 

Willamette Valley Vineyards offers two tastings that each include five wines: the Daily Wine Flight for $15 per person and the Reserve Flight for $20 per person. During your tasting, you can also order wine by the bottle and glass, or food for an additional charge.  

While you are at Willamette Valley Vineyards, you can also book a Pairings Exploration Experience, Private Winery Tour & Tasting, and Pinot Noir Clonal Blending Experience — simply check the website for pricing. The winery also offers open seating, so you can enjoy a glass of wine and a bite to eat without reserving a tasting. 

• Address: 8800 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392 
• Tasting Cost: $15 – $20 per person 
• Reservations Required: No 

Tips for Visiting the Willamette Valley  

Make tasting reservations in advance.  .

Most wineries in the Willamette Valley require you to make tasting reservations in advance. However, even if they don’t, it is wise to make reservations as least a month or so in advance at the popular wineries — especially on weekends and during the summer months! 

Many wineries in the Willamette Valley are family-owned and run by a small team, so it is impossible for them to churn out hundreds of tastings in one day. Reservations are helpful to ensure they have an adequate number of staff available to host you. 

Food options are limited.  

Most wineries in the Willamette Valley are working vineyards — not restaurants. While you may find cheeseboards and quick snacks at the wineries, it is not common to find a full lunch or dinner menu that will keep you satisfied all day. 

That said, add a winery that serves food to your wine-tasting itinerary, like Stoller Family Estate, or plan a lunch break somewhere in your day. Red Hills Market in Dundee is an excellent stop for gourmet sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas. McMinnville is a small town that also offers several top-rated restaurants, including Thistle, Pizza Capo, and La Rambla Restaurant & Social Room. 

Some wineries will allow you to bring your own food to eat alongside your tasting, so you can always pack a picnic lunch to eat at a winery or in your car on the go. Even if you don’t bring lunch — bring some snacks to munch on.  

Don’t overbook your wine-tasting day.  

The Willamette Valley is huge — some wineries are more than an hour apart. If you want to visit multiple wineries in one day, it is doable, but it would be smart to make no more than 2–3 reservations. You probably will not be able to find a tasting earlier than 10 AM, and most wineries close between 4 PM to 5 PM. 

You should plan to spend at least 90 minutes to two hours at each winery and plan another 30 minutes to one hour of travel time between wineries. I would recommend two wineries with a stop for lunch so you don’t feel rushed unless you book a tasting at a winery that serves food — in that case, three wineries may be doable! 

Save some money in your budget.  

Wine tasting in the Willamette Valley is not cheap. If you are used to paying $10 – $15 for a wine tasting, you may experience some “sticker shock” when you realize that most tastings in the Willamette Valley are between $25 – $40 per person! 

However, it is important to understand wine tasting in the Willamette Valley is an experience. You will not be standing at a bar having wines poured into a plastic cup to sample with the pressure to buy a glass. You will be seated with a stunning backdrop and guided through the tasting process with a knowledgeable guide for an hour or 90 minutes. 

These winemakers are proud of their craft — and when you pay for a tasting, you are helping to keep their small, local, and family-run winery in business. It is worth the money — just be sure to budget at least $100 per person for a day of wine tasting in the Willamette Valley. 

Book a tour from Portland .

If you are staying in Portland without a car or do not have a designated driver, you can still enjoy some of the best wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley. Here are a few top-rated wine tours to choose from, with transportation included. 

• Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch —This full-day trip from Portland with round-trip transportation includes stops at 3–5 wineries in the Willamette Valley and a wine country-style lunch.
• Willamette Valley Wine-Tasting Tour from Portland —During this small-group tour from Portland, you will visit three wineries and sample award-winning wines while enjoying the gorgeous countryside.
• Small Group: Willamette Valley Wine Tour from Portland — This small-group, full-day, wine-tasting tour from Portland includes transportation and wine-tasting fees for three wineries in the Willamette Valley.

FAQs: Best Wineries to Visit in the Willamette Valley  

What is the best part of willamette valley.

There are several small towns scattered throughout the Willamette Valley — including McMinnville, Dundee, Carlton, and Newberg. Find the wineries you want to visit most and keep your trip focused around the area to avoid too much back-and-forth driving.

What area of Oregon has the best wineries?

The Willamette Valley has the best wineries in Oregon. It is Oregon’s oldest wine-growing region with 700+ wineries — over two-thirds of the state’s wineries. 

What is the oldest winery in Willamette Valley?

Tualatin Estate Vineyard was established in 1973 and is the oldest winery in the Willamette Valley. Honeywood Winery in Salem is the oldest winery in all of Oregon — this award-winning winery dates to 1934.

Plan an Epic Wine Tasting Journey with These Best Wineries to Visit in the Willamette Valley  

There is definitely no shortage of incredible wineries to visit in the Willamette Valley! Regardless of which wineries you choose, you are bound to have a fantastic time enjoying the refreshing wines and beautiful views in Oregon’s Wine Country. 

Save the Best Wineries to Visit in the Willamette Valley for Your Wine-Tasting Trip

Are you looking for more things to do in Oregon? Check out these other things to do while you are in Portland, Oregon, and near the Willamette Valley:

• Perfect Cannon Beach Day Trip from Portland
• Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour: Tips, Tricks & What You Need to Know
• Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Portland, Oregon
• Scenic Columbia River Gorge Day Trip from Portland

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

Best Southern Oregon Wineries & Wine Tastings for 2024

Learn About Some of the Best Wineries in Southern Oregon, Plus Travel Logistics and Things to Do in the Region

Down near the California border, there’s a breathtaking stretch of Oregon where the wine is as good as anywhere else in the state. The Willamette Valley tends to get most of the credit, but if you’re after scenic terrain, superb wines, and charming small-town life, it’s best to head south. Southern Oregon is spoiled when it comes to good looks and winemaking prowess.

Travel Logistics

The drive from Portland is about four-and-a-half hours and a mostly pleasant drive but there are more direct routes. Travelers can fly into nearby Medford , about 12 miles away.

Ashland makes for fine headquarters, a city set just a stone’s throw from scores of great wineries and tasting rooms. The city of 22,000 is part college and theater town, part high country paradise, and home to the Shakespeare Festival and Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest. The Rogue River Valley is the backdrop for dozens of wine producers, specializing in everything from Pinot Noir to Viognier to Rhone blends.

Exceptional Southern Oregon Wineries To Visit

Just outside of town is Irvine & Roberts Vineyards , with its stunning patio and tasting space nestled in a sea of foothills. Set up a tasting appointment here if you like estate Pinot Noir , Chardonnay , and the occasional lesser-known varietal like Pinot Meunier . Down the road is Belle Foire , an opulent estate inspired by French architecture. Set up with a wine pavilion and chateau-like structure, the winery also features vineyard tours. The European flair extends into Belle Foire’s wine lineup, which includes the likes of Barbera , Montepulciano, Tempranillo, and more.

Ask most wine types where to go next and they’ll likely drop the Quady North name. Herb Quady’s wines are beloved all over the region and the longtime grower and producer just opened a new tasting space just outside of the historic town of Jacksonville, about 25 miles from Ashland. On top of photogenic views of the Applegate Valley, guests are treated to lovely wines and charcuterie, if hungry. Quady North is behind some of the best Rosé (made with grapes like Counoise and Grenache) in southern Oregon, along with elegant Cabernet Franc and Syrah.

Down the valley on the outskirts of Grants Pass is Troon Vineyard , one of the eldest in the state. Launched in 1972, the winery focuses on mindful farming and is both Demeter Biodynamic Certified and Regenerative Organic Certified. In other words, it’s all about minimal inputs and celebrating the health of the soil, which gives rise to some truly outstanding wines. Look out for excellent Tannat , deftly-made blends and some great orange wines , made with grapes like Vermentino .

Back in Ashland, Weisinger Family Winery makes exceptional small-batch Gewürztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc, along with a grilling season favorite in Malbec. It’s a standout spot for Bordeaux and Rhone blends paired with amazing hospitality.

Fans of refreshing whites like Grüner Veltliner , Riesling and Pinot Gris are encouraged to head to Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards , a bit north in Roseburg. They also make some intriguing port, sparkling, and dessert wines. It’s a considerable drive north but a great stop especially en route to Portland or the Willamette Valley. It’s part of the flourishing Umpqua Valley appellation, the other major growing area outside of the Rogue in this part of the state. If you go, be sure to pop into Abacela Winery , makers of fantastic Spanish-style wines.

Outdoorsy Things To Do

Wine ought to be in the foreground of your trip but you’d be letting the place down if you didn’t plan some one-of-a-kind outings. Oregon’s only National Park is an easy day trip from town and home to the impossibly blue waters of Crater Lake, the country’s deepest lake. There’s a postcard image in every direction and the old lodge is worth perusing, especially if you forgot to pack a lunch. There’s blue-ribbon rafting and hiking along the Rogue River, not to mention some fine fly-fishing, depending on the time of year.

RELATED: The Ideal Pacific Northwest Road Trip Route

A closer trek is to the aptly-named Mt. Ashland, just 8 miles from town but a towering 7,500 feet in elevation. The air is pure atop the highest point in the Siskiyou’s and the panoramic views won’t soon leave your memory. While a snow bunny’s version of heaven, the peak also has its summer merits, like mountain biking, camping, and a robust trail system that includes part of the famed Pacific Coast Trail.

Dining and Lodging

Ashland Springs Hotel is easily the best in Ashland and stands out as a nine-story skyscraper amid the petite skyline. It’s a historic hotel beautifully restored and dating back to 1925, home to Larks Kitchen, with its impressive local wine list and fresh cuisine. Dining at the hotel restaurant is a time capsule experience, with little evidence of the modern era outside of the occasional glow of a patron’s phone. Grab a coveted seat on the sidewalk outside if you can.

RELATED: Everything You Need To Know About Oregon Truffles

Jacksonville is just a few miles away and easily one of the best-kept secrets in the Pacific Northwest. The tiny town is an old western haunt preserved in mint condition (it’s where The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid was filmed). With its impeccable architecture and pedestrian-friendliness, you’ll want to ditch the car or bike for a few hours, at least. The Jacksonville Inn is the beating heart of this charming town, where guests can stay onsite or a few blocks away at one of several well-appointed cottages. Whether you overnight or not, a trip to the house wine shop is well worth your time, as is a meal at the top-notch hotel restaurant.

For a vineyard stay, check out the cottage at Weisinger , set in a modernized farmhouse that was originally built in 1920. Troon offers similar accommodations while Hummingbird Estate  offers gorgeous guest suites in a restored mansion.

Other Ashland restaurants of note include the wine-centric Alchemy , convivial Skout (right near the beautiful grounds of Lithia Park), and the celebrate Cascadian cuisine of chef Josh Dorcak at MÄS .

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If your tasting plans involve more than a few stops, think about reserving a tour or concierge service through one of the many wine-tasting tour companies in the Willamette Valley. Many of these outfitters pick you up from your hotel and offer a variety of services—so they can either plan your day’s itinerary, based on your tastes and interests, or drive you between your pre-selected stops. Check out a round-up of Willamette Valley wine tour companies for more details.

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Your adventure begins with the official Willamette Valley Travel Guide. Request your complimentary printed guide or download a digital guide today.

Guide to Wineries in Bend, Oregon

The high desert might not be the first place you’d think of to find some award-winning wines–made from grapes grown right off the vine in Central Oregon. Granted, the notion of having a vineyard in its tricky climate seems like an uphill battle: challenging soil conditions, unique terrain, unpredictable weather and a short growing season. Yet, a few Central Oregon wineries have shown their “medal” by beating those odds–and winning.

Other local wineries and winemakers have also made Bend, Oregon and the surrounding area their home, capitalizing on their family traditions and winemaking expertise to craft world-class wines locally. Whether the wines you’ll find in Central Oregon originated from grapes here or elsewhere, the results are worth savoring at the many venues and vineyards you can explore here.

Wineries with Vineyards in Central Oregon

Several hardy high desert wineries pepper the Central Oregon region, their vineyards producing wines from special grape varietals bred to not only survive, but thrive in the climate’s conditions and create unique tasting profiles.

Living up to its translation in French, “good earth”, Terrebonne , Oregon, is the ‘stomping’ ground of two vineyards. Both located about 40 minutes north of Bend, these make a great day trip, or leisurely stopover as you drive north or south on Highway 97.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards With the Three Sisters mountains (originally named“Faith”, “Hope” and “Charity”) towering in the distance, this scenic vineyard was a finalist for “Best Winery Venue” for weddings in Oregon Bride magazine’s Best of 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards. The view is only part of this winery’s story. The owners have lovingly brought their fruit forward with a productive vineyard thanks to their overhead frost protection system. They’ve championed five estate-grown wines, which you can sample along with their others made with grapes from other regional vineyards.

Maragas Winery You can’t miss this winery right off Highway 97, about 5 minutes north of Terrebonne. Their 15-acre vineyard is home to 35 different vines, including blocks of European varietals and experimental ones to explore which grow best in its unique terroir. They also grow grapes at a second vineyard, Roberts Ranch, 25 miles north of Maragas. Their tasting barn’s mesmerizing views of Smith Rock State Park’s red walls seen from their patio and lawn pair perfectly with their appetizer plates and cheese/charcuterie boards, prepared by their Greek-born chef.

Best Places for Local Wine Tasting

To find the best places to taste wine locally, you don’t need to go straight to the source to sample Central Oregon and other PNW wines. There are many wine tasting rooms and venues right in Bend and Redmond. And, many tasting rooms offer palate-enhancing menus to pair with your wine onsite. Other tasting rooms let you bring your own food from nearby food carts and restaurants, usually just around the corner.

Elixir in NW Bend offers an elite global wine experience, importing wines through intimate collaborations with winemaking families from countries around the world: Portugal, Spain, France, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Mexico, Spain, France and Italy…and, now, Oregon. Here, you can sample their Ermisch Cellars wine, made locally by owner Kirk Ermisch and his daughter at their boutique winery, right here in Bend, Oregon.

Evoke Winery has a fun hang out spot to try its wines in the Old Mill District. One of its four locations in the Northwest, this playful company produces some savory wines that always make for a great night out with friends.

Stoller Wine Bar brings its well-known, renowned wines from Oregon’s Willamette Valley to its tasting room in the Box Factory, located on the fringe of downtown Bend. Enjoy glasses, flights and bottles from their family of wines: Stoller Family Estate, Chehalem, History, Chemistry and Canned Oregon. Like any proper winery, they offer perfectly-paired flatbreads, cheese and charcuterie boards.

Bledsoe Family Wines Yes. THAT Bledsoe. Former NFL Quarterback, Drew Bledsoe, who now lives in the Bend, Oregon area, was born and raised in the winemaking hot spot–Walla Walla, Washington. He started a vineyard there in 2007, and clearly, winning is in his blood: His first vintage made Wine Spectator’s Top 100 List. At their tasting room in the Box Factory, you can savor their wine flights or glasses a la carte while enjoying delicious food from the popular food cart lot just across the street: Podski . Grab amazing charcuterie and cheese boards from Board in Bend.

Va Piano “When you go slowly, you go safely and you go far.” Its name inspired by an Italian proverb reminding us all to savor the ‘slow life’, Va Piano brings its Walla Walla Valley wines to Central Oregon, focused on Cabernet, Syrah and red blends. It’s an extension of the winery passion of Walla Walla-born owner Justin Wylie, whose family frequents Bend for vacations.

Why not have the wine come to you? Eqwine Wine Bar takes tasting to the road with their creative mobile wine-tasting operation: With their converted horse trailer, the Eqwine team travels the Northwest to select wines they find along the way, and bring them back to their home base in Redmond, Oregon to share. Available for parties and other events, they offer occasional wine education classes…to boot.

Portello Wine Cafe has been a popular hangout in Northwest Crossing since 2006, just a few minutes from downtown Bend. With inviting, ample indoor and outdoor seating, this is a buzzing, friendly hub where you can relax while letting knowledgeable staff make recommendations from their rotating wine list. Try a flight, or, pull a bottle from their wide selections of regional and global wines from their racks right on the floor. All this comes with their savory menu, including mix-and-match bruschetta plates, plus daily deals and specials.

Adjacent to Drake Park along downtown Bend’s Brooks Street Promenade, FERM & fare wine tasting shop treats tasters to an upscale feel while they sample wines from around the world. Focusing their flights on organic , biodynamic and responsibly farmed wines, they complement them with a playful small bites menu.

Cork Cellars in Sisters, Oregon makes a perfect cozy wine stop after a day of skiing up at Hoodoo , or hiking Black Butte. They host an enticing, broad selection of regional and local wines to go with their tapas, savory salads, flatbreads and more from their robust dinner menu.

The Good Drop Wine Shoppe Right in downtown Bend, this iconic Bend wine shop and tasting room combo continues to invite winelovers to pause and enjoy the wealth of their expertise. With refined wines from around the world, it’s a great local spot to enjoy a wine-by-the glass in their cozy shop or on their patio.

The Wine Shop and Tasting Bar in downtown Bend was voted one of the top ten wine bars in Oregon for good reason. Offering an array of refined wines from around the world, this is a great spot to sip, either in their warm, wood-hewn tasting room or outside on their patio while you enjoy their accompanying meat and cheese boards.

Wine Tours in Bend, Oregon

There are a few guided tours you can take to explore all of these great wineries and tasting rooms in Bend and Central Oregon.

Started by a seasoned wine enthusiast from California, Bend Wine Tours offers the most wine-forward tour in the area, offering customized walking wine tours that include wine tasting etiquette, palate-cleansing snacks and education in Bend’s Old Mill District. Bend Wine Tours also offers in-house wine tastings to explore the Central Oregon area’s wines.

Along with their beer and distillery tours, Wanderlust Tours’ Bend Brew Bus offers premiere, full-service beverage tours in Bend. For 10 or more people, you can book a private, customized tour, where you can choose the best tour based on the tastes, and knowledgeable guides make time with winemakers to discuss the legs on their wine.

Whatever wine your heart desires, you’re sure to please that palate somewhere in Central Oregon. Here’s a toast to the good life. Salute, Santé, Skal..and Cheers.

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7 Stellar Oregon Pinot Noirs to Drink Right Now

Selections from one of the best pinot noir-growing regions in america., mike desimone and jeff jenssen, mike desimone and jeff jenssen's most recent stories, the sonoma winemaker quietly crafting some of the region’s best pinot noir, the ultimate guide to pairing wine with spicy food, here’s what goes into making jay-z’s $1,200 champagne.

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There is twice as much Pinot Noir as all other grapes combined planted in the state of Oregon. The Willamette Valley leads the charge with over 21,000 acres of vines, confirming it as one of the best areas in the United States to produce this finicky varietal. Burgundian wine families have been putting down roots here for decades, to the point that the valley has been dubbed the Burgundy of the Pacific Northwest. While the flavor profile of Pinot Noir grown in Oregon differs from Burgundy, there are many winemakers who try to emulate the style of the old country and a large percentage do so successfully. More than 80 percent of the Pinot Noir produced in Oregon is made from grapes grown in the Willamette Valley, which is home to over 700 wineries that benefit from a combination of sedimentary and volcanic soils.

On the east side of the state, the Cascade Mountains provide a barrier to the arid, dry climate of eastern Oregon while the Coast Range on the west shelters Willamette River vineyards from frigid Pacific air and pelting rain. The summers are moderate with cool nights that allow for concentration of sugars in the grapes and cooler, sunny autumns provide the perfect weather for harvesting grapes with vivid acidity and complex flavors.

Domaine de Broglie 2019 Reserve Pinot Noir Domaine de Broglie Vineyard, Dundee Hills, Oregon

Domaine de Broglie changed its name to Domaine Lumineux in November 2023, but bottles produced before 2023 are still labeled with the original name. The old name was to honor owner Francis Ford Coppola’s passion for quantum mechanics and the new name continues to honor science, showcasing the relationship between wine and light. This delightful bottle has a bright and luminous red cherry color and aromas of freshly picked red raspberry, Bing cherry, and brown baking spices. It is medium bodied with flavors of red plum, pomegranate, and cranberry with soft, silky tannins. 

Buy Now: $75

Cristom Vineyards 2021 Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Oregon

The Gerrie family founded Cristom Vineyards in 1992 and it remains family owned to this day with the winemaking team farming the vineyards using organic and biodynamic principles. Brilliant ruby colored in the glass, this wine offers aromas of blueberry, dried savory herbs, and red plum. It is full bodied in the mid palate with slightly grippy tannins and flavors of cranberry, black cherry, and brown baking spices.

Buy Now: $90

Bergström 2022 Bergström Vineyard Pinot Noir Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Oregon

John Bergström left Sweden and emigrated to Portland, Oregon to pursue a medical education and met his wife Karen there. The two founded Bergström wines and today the winery is run by Josh Bergström, owner, CEO, and director of winemaking who, alongside his team, crafts some amazing wines. The 2022 is bright cherry colored with aromas of Luxardo cherry, smoked charcuterie, and strawberry that transition to flavors of crushed violet petal, smoked bacon, and red raspberry. The tannins are smooth, and the finish goes on and on. 

Buy Now: $175

Sequitur 2018 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Oregon

Etzel and Carey Critchlow’s Sequitur is situated in a clearing of land surrounded on three sides by Douglas Firs, so the vines are protected from harsh elements of climate. Sequitur 2018 Ribbon Ridge is cherry red in the glass with aromas of blue fruits, Bing cherry, and cranberry. It has a strong and grippy tannic structure with flavors of ripe cherry, pomegranate juice, and caramelized orange peel. 

Adelsheim 2019 Boulder Bluff Vineyard Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Oregon

David and Ginny Adelsheim founded their eponymous winery in 1971. No stranger to making wine, David’s early experience included working at the Eyrie Vineyards and experimental vineyards at the Lycée Viticole in Burgundy. In 1994 the Adelsheims partnered with Jack and Lynn Loacker who eventually purchased full interest in the winery in 2017. The 2019 Boulder Bluff Vineyard Pinot Noir has an enticing bouquet of cherry cola, dried orange peel, and ripe summer cherry with flavors of pomegranate, red plum, and dried savory herbs. It is full bodied with silky tannins.

Buy Now: $100

Soter Vineyards 2021 Mineral Springs Ranch Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Oregon

Visitors to Soter Vineyards and Mineral Springs Ranch can do a private or semi-private tasting of four of the current release wines or upgrade their experience to a wine tasting that includes a meal made with ingredients and produce sourced from the ranch. The 2021 Pinot Noir will pair perfectly with your meal at home as well. It has aromas of red raspberry, red plum, and black cherry with flavors of cigar box, tobacco leaf, and orange zest. There’s great mouthfeel and just a touch of salinity in the long finish.

Walt 2019 Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton District Willamette Valley Oregon

Dick and Dierdre Shea source fruit from several vineyards but their eponymous one is located in the Yamhill-Carlton sub-appellation of Willamette Valley. The winemaking team feel this expanse produces grapes that exemplify classic Oregon terroir. This Pinot Noir is light garnet in color with aromas of strawberry, cinnamon, and pomegranate. It has opulent, voluptuous tannins with flavors of caramelized orange peel, cranberry, and a touch of forest floor in the finish.

Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, also known as the World Wine Guys, are wine, spirits, food, and travel writers, educators, and hosts. They have been featured guests on the Today Show, The Martha…

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Vote for your favorite bike tour!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel for their fantastic guided and self-guided tours that take you around the globe on two wheels.  Which bike tour company would you most like to tour with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour companies will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel...   Read More

Best Bike Tour Nominees

Photo courtesy of Adventure Cycling, photo from Bruce Malarky

Adventure Cycling

A dedicated advocate for all forms of biking, Adventure Cycling has compiled more than 50,000 miles of bike routes across North America since their inception in 1973. While seasoned cyclists are welcome to peruse their interactive map as they plan their next journey, the company also offers a wealth of guided tours, with regions ranging from the Florida Keys to the Pacific Northwest.

Photo courtesy of Backroads

Backroads believes in the transformative power of going at your own pace, which is why the company offers bike tours for every type of rider. Guests ride custom-built titanium bikes on itineraries in some 55 countries. In the United States, tours include everything from Death Valley or Saguaro National Park to Martha’s Vineyard or the Hudson Valley.

Photo courtesy of Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures’ motto is "stay curious, eat well, and pedal happy." With more than 35 years of experience in the industry, that’s just what many a guest does, whether biking the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway in Wyoming or riding through Oregon’s Columbia Gorge. Itineraries cover 11 states, along with around a dozen countries.

Photo courtesy of BikeHike Adventures

BikeHike Adventures

With curated tours across five continents, BikeHike Adventures showcases the diverse landscapes and cultures across the globe from the comfort of a bicycle. While strictly-cycling excursions can be booked across destinations like Colombia, Ireland, and Morocco, ambitious adventurers can also sign up for a multi-sport itinerary for some added hiking and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Kruck20 // Getty Images

BikeTours.com

BikeTours.com specializes in organizing biking tour experiences in over 30 European countries. They offer both guided and self-guided tours geared towards all experience levels from leisure riders to biking enthusiasts. Riders can also enjoy family-oriented tours and a combination of biking/boating adventures.

Photo courtesy of Patrick Laughlin

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers offers the ultimate bicycling vacation options. Whether taking a weeklong or cross-country tour, or simply overnighting at a hotel or bed-and-breakfast, you'll experience some of the best scenery from D.C. to Colorado or the sunny coasts of Florida. 

Photo courtesy of Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation. From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Photo courtesy of Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico is a woman-founded bike tour company that specializes in educational trips to European countries and the Northeast United States. Cyclists are fully immersed in the local art, language, music, and delicious cuisine of each unique area, aiming to meet the company's goal of providing an adventure their guests will never forget.

Photo courtesy of DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co. / Gwen Kidera

DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

DuVine's mission is "for every traveler to experience the world by bike." These luxury bike tours focus heavily on food and wine, and itineraries often include family-run restaurants and boutique accommodations. You’ll find tours around the globe, including domestic options in California, the Hudson Valley, Maine, and Vermont, among others.

Photo courtesy of Exodus Adventure Travels

Exodus Adventure Travels

Founded 50 years ago, Exodus Adventure Travels offers small group and self-guided cycling trips to over 100 countries. Cycling tours include leisurely exploration in places like Portugal and the Baltics, as well as more challenging routes in places like Sicily, Panama, and Sri Lanka.   

Photo courtesy of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! is one of the oldest and most well-respected bike touring companies based in the United States. For more than a half-century, adventurous cyclists and active travelers have joined their guided bike tours and followed along some of the most delightful roads in the world. ExperiencePlus! provides both novice and seasoned cyclists alike with local tour leaders, thoughtful routes, and plenty of cultural immersion.

Photo courtesy of Daniele Mazierli / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Great Explorations

Built around being environmentally conscious, Great Explorations believes in leaving the environment around the biking trips the way it was found. As a boutique travel company with tours taking place across multiple continents, they create one-of-a-kind experiences that include charming hotels and unique dining experiences with cycling days that range between 25-40 miles.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Launched in 1989, Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 voyages across the globe — and cycling tours are no exception. In addition to classic biking destinations like Provence and Tuscany, the company has mastered the art of shining a spotlight on underrated regions, operating bike excursions to Sri Lanka, Slovenia, Tanzania, and a wealth of other countries.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

REI is a household name for adventure seekers and outdoorsy tourists alike. Cycling enthusiasts will want to check out their biking adventures around some of the nation's best national parks, which range from three to six days in duration.

Photo courtesy of Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling was founded more than two decades ago, offering bicycle tours of Maine. Today, the company continues to introduce visitors to the Pine Tree State, with additional tour offerings in Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Europe.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Hoyt

Timberline Adventures

Timberline Adventures provides guided and self-guided cycling tours throughout the United States and Canada. All guided adventures include lodging, support from a sag wagon, and most meals. Destinations include Death Valley National Park, the Northwest Passage, Aspen, and more.

Photo courtesy of U. J. Alexander / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Trek Travel

Trek Travel leads all kinds of adventure tours to all corners of the globe, but the company got its start in bicycling trips. From North America to Europe, and South America to the Asia-Pacific region, see the world with personalized care and fantastic guides for your type of cycling style. 

Photo courtesy of VBT Bicycling Vacations

VBT Bicycling Vacations

Guests traveling with VBT can choose their trip by activity level: easy, easy/moderate, moderate, or moderate/challenging. Guided and self-guided itineraries explore destinations around the globe, including the Vermont countryside, South Carolina Lowcountry, and the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.

Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs

Wilderness Voyageurs

From the arid depths of New Mexico to the lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula, Wilderness Voyageurs provides guests with an opportunity to traverse some of the most gorgeous bike paths across the lower 48. While road, gravel, and mountain bike tours are all available, the company's inn-to-inn rail trail tours offer a more relaxing perspective on the sport, combining outdoor adventure with cozy accommodations throughout the trip.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.