A BLONDE VINTAGE

If you love wine, you’re in the right spot. And, if you know me, then you know I also love wine. I remember my first taste of Oregon Wine Country. I was six years old, and my big sister wanted to get married in the lower Willamette Valley, at a winery. It was slim pickings back then (it was the mid 90s after all) but with my mom behind the wheel and my sister riding shot gun we toured five wineries that Saturday in late Autumn. At the very last winery, I remember pulling up to a stone castle, perched high on the hill, over looking the valley below. It was breathtaking and in my six-year old mind, this was where Barbie and Ken were going to get married and live happily-ever-after. We toured the property, which was cutting-edge and way ahead of its time, and at the end of the tour my mom and sister tasted their way through the wines. When we finished, and hopped back in the car to drive home, my sister decided this was where she wanted to get married, at King Estate Winery. Travel Guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country

Ever since that day of touring, I begged my mom to take me for drives out into the country so I could see the “wineries”. She probably thought it was silly, but my folks always indulged me. When I became older (and over the age of 21), we’d go tasting together, keeping up on all the new wineries flooding the Willamette Valley, cataloging which were our favorites. My obsession grew, as did my wine collection. Boyfriends came and went, hardly understanding my growing passion in Oregon’s thriving wine country. Soon thereafter I met my now husband, coincidentally at the winery I was working at at the time, and our collective love for wine (and each other) grew leaps and bounds. So, fast forward to this moment, where I’m so excited to share with you my passion in this travel guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country. Book mark it. Share it. Send it to relatives visiting the area. But most of all, enjoy it. Cheers!

Whereabouts is Wine Country?

With over 750 wineries gracing the hills of Oregon, there is a lot of terrain to cover. If you aren’t familiar with Oregon, or Oregon’s Wine country, it’s important to note that the Willamette Valley is a 150-mile long valley and it’s divided up into the following categories. Travel Guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country

“Lower Willamette Valley” – This area encompases Eugene and the surrounding area.

“Mid Willamette Valley” – This area encompasses Salem and the surrounding area.

“Upper Willamette Valley” – This area encompasses Dundee, Newberg, McMinnville and the surrounding area. This area also has the largest number of concentrated wineries and is the most visited area of Oregon Wine Country.

Arriving in Wine Country

If you’re flying in for your visit, more than likely you’ll want to fly into Portland (PDX), Oregon. However, if the wineries you’re planning to visit are concentrated throughout the lower and mid-valley, I recommend flying into Eugene (EUG), Oregon. Often times you can find better flight deals, and car rental prices into this airport. It’s also fairly small, so you’ll be on your way much more quickly!

Additionally, you should plan to rent a car. We do have Uber and taxis all over the state, but it’s so spread out, you’ll want your own transportation unless you’re planning to stay in downtown Portland and hiring a car service to visit wineries and the surrounding area. Travel Guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country

If you decide to hire a car service, there are several local companies which are reputable and do a great job! They will make all your arrangements for the day ahead of time, so you do not have to do any of the leg work calling wineries to book appointments.

Seasons in Wine Country

Harvest typically begins in late September and runs through early November, depending on the season. As you drive through the countryside, you’ll see the vineyard landscape dotted with crews picking the ripe fruit and bins overflowing with deep purple Pinot noir grapes. It’s one of my favorite times of the year to be out in wine country.

The summertime is wonderful too, but can be quite busy. The sun is high in the sky, the days are long and leisurely and fields of green stretch at every turn.

Fall brings the seasonal change of colors among the vines, the occasional rain shower and the foggy nights.

Winter is a true test for your love of wine country. If you can handle the rain, gloom, frost, with the onset of early darkness…well you’re either an Oregon native or extremely bold.

Just remember! You’re traveling to Oregon, so bring a light raincoat no matter what season you decide to visit!

Where to Stay

If your entire weekend is going to be devoted to wine tasting. I’d suggest staying in Oregon wine country itself. However, if you’re short on time, flying into Portland and want to experience the city too, then I encourage you to stay in downtown Portland and hire a driver for one day in Oregon’s wine country.

Portland Hotels

The Dossier – Each of Dossier’s art-filled rooms and suites features locally-inspired amenities designed to bring the spirit of Portland into the hotel. This is a beautiful and perfectly located hotel.

The Porter – One of the newest hotels to grace Portland’s skyline, The Porter has modern, sumptuous accommodations and a rooftop bar with the best view Portland has to offer.

Marriott Waterfront – If you’re a Marriott member, or simply enjoy being a stones throw from the water, then this is the best hotel in Portland. The rooms are modern and recently refurbished, the lobby has a upbeat, busy lounge and the executive lounge is my favorite in the whole PNW! Travel Guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country

The Nines – The only five-star hotel in Portland, this modern luxury accommodation is the perfect starting point for your explorations.

Upper Willamette Valley Hotels

Allison Inn & Spa – A upscale, high-end, spa resort is located on 35 acres of grounds and is within 10 miles of dozens of wineries. There is also an amazing restaurant onsite.

Atticus Hotel – A boutique hotel in the center of McMinnville. Walking distance from shops, restaurants and tasting rooms!

Inn at Red Hills – This very straightforward, no frills Inn is set along town’s main strip, and within a mile of multiple wineries. You can walk to taste at several of Oregon’s premier locations during the day and then walk to dinner in the evening.

Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard – A B&B with a lovely tasting room. For a high-end, intimate epicurean stay, this is your best choice.

The Vintages Trailer Resort – This quirky trailer resort in the heart of the upper Willamette Valley is 2 miles from both Sokol Blosser Winery and Stoller Vineyards.

Eugene Hotels

Inn at the 5th – A luxe boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Eugene. It’s walking distance from shops, restaurants, and even a wine bar!

Hyatt Place – One of the newest hotels in Eugene, this hotel is located in Oakway center. It’s walking distance from shops, restaurants, fitness studios and anything you could possibly want.

The Graduate – Recently renovated to reflect everything EUG, this hotel is located in downtown Eugene and is walking distance from The Fifth Street Public Market.

Wineries in the Willamette Valley

The following wineries are in alphabetical order and nothing particular, just know that each is unique, delicious and worth going to! Just to let you know, some of these wineries require appointments to be made ahead of time. Plan your visit and call prior to arriving for the best experience!

 

 

Alloro – A small, but gorgeous winery in the Chehalem AVA with beautiful elegant in-style Pinot noirs. Recently, they added a new Tasting House which offers epic views of the surrounding mountain range.

Antica Terra – Female winemaker, Maggie Harrison specializes in small-lot Chardonnay and Pinot noir. One of my very favorite places to visit, the wine is always a stunning reflection of the vintage.

Archery Summit – One of my favorite places to take a tour, as they have wine caves which lead back into the hillside…the wine is delicious as well!

Argyle Winery – Known for their exceptional sparkling wines, this is the best place to begin your day wine tasting, you’ll definitely want to call and reserve your spot ahead of time!

Anne Amie – Known for making delicious Pinot noirs, as well as hosting their yearly event Bubblesfest in February.

Bergstrom – Delicious Pinot noir and Chardonnay make this small tasting room stand out from the rest along the Ribbon Ridge area.

Beaux Frère – Amazing Pinot noir, several choices from their various vineyard sites create variance among the selections.

Dobbes Family Estate – Next to Arygle along the Dundee highway, Joe Dobbes makes incredible wines ranging from Pinot gris, Pinot noir, Chardonnay to heavier whites and reds including Viognier, Syrah and Malbec.

Domaine Drouhin – The Drouhin Family has been producing exceptional wines in Burgundy, France since 1880, and in the Dundee Hills of Oregon since 1987. This French Chateau-like tasting room is unbelievably beautiful, as is the wines.

Domaine Serene – Specializing in Pinot noir, this elegant, Mediterranean-style winery and tasting room offers scenic vineyard views and cellar tours. Make sure to call ahead and book your reservations!

Erath Winery – Erath is one of the pioneers of Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country and the region’s leading producer of Pinot oir. This is a great stop to learn the history of Oregon wine country!

Eminent Domaine – A family run vineyard & tasting room in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Exceptional quality pinot noir and chardonnay, with beautiful views.

Evening Land – Their tasting room is downtown Dundee and walking distance from Argyle and Dobbes Family. Their wines are quite exceptional and it’s worth a quick stop!

Four Graces – The Four Graces is located in a small historic farmhouse in the heart of the Willamette Valley. Their sustainably farmed, well-tended vineyards produce elegant and delicious wines.

Stoller Family Estate – Stoller Family Estate is one of the most highly regarded vineyards and wineries in Oregon, and for good reason! Their wines are superb and every time you visit, you feel welcome.

Sokol Blosser – One of the oldest vineyards in Oregon – Sokol Blosser Winery has played a key role in developing and shaping the now prominent Oregon wine industry.

Soter – Open by advance appointment only, make sure you try the “Soter Pop”, the best sparkling rose of Pinot noir in the valley.

Patricia Green – With a focus on producing Pinot noirs that show the distinct characteristics of the sites and vintage within the context of the wines, you will leave this places with cases upon cases of wine. Guaranteed.

Lower Willamette Valley Wineries

Hayworth – One of the newest wineries to grace the lower Willamette Valley, Hayworth Estate Wines recently opened a tasting room in the town of Coburg which features a covered patio and firepits. It’s cozy and enjoyable!

J. Scott Cellars – One of the best winemakers in Oregon, Jonathan Oberlander makes a wide variety of wines. Their Tasting Room on 5th is open almost daily, make sure to check their website for current open operating hours!

Sarver – Specializing in small lot productions wines, Sarver has a view which cannot be beat. Feel free to bring your own picnic, buy a bottle and stay a while.

Silvan Ridge  – Known for their distinctive Willamette Valley Pinot noir and Pinot gris, Silvan Ridge was originally established in 1979. From the moment you step in the door, you’ll be treated like family.

Sweet Cheeks – This family owned and operated winery produces wide range of wines including, Riesling, Pinot noir, Pinot gris and Chardonnay. The tasting room also boasts beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Where to Eat

There is SO much good food in Oregon, and we have an abundance of restaurants which are locally owned and operated. The current trend is farm-to-table, sustainable and organic. So you’ll be eating good on your trip to wine country!

Upper Willamette Valley

Red Hills Market – A great spot for breakfast or lunch, you can even call ahead and pick up picnics to go! Make sure you stop here at least once during your travels through the upper Willamette Valley wine country!

Jory – A fine dining restaurant located inside the Allison Inn & Spa. It’s delicious, a bit speedy, but the view and service cannot be beat!

Nick’s Italian – Located in McMinnville, this is one of my favorite dinner spots in wine country.

The Newbergundian Restaurant – We kept trying to eat here – but the line was miles long and the wait forever. Finally, we had our chance one evening that we planned ahead and made reservations. It was delicious and lived up to all the hype!

The Painted Lady – I always like to tell people this is like the French Laundry of the Willamette Valley. The Painted Lady is a four-star restaurant that only features coursed out, seasonal tasting menus and has an option to pair wines or purchase wine by the bottle off their award-wining wine list. You will not regret eating here. Reservations should be made ahead of time.

Lower Willamette Valley

Marche – My top pick for places to eat in Eugene, Marche has the best bar, wonderful staff and incredible food. In the summertime, I love sitting out on their peaceful patio and in the winter, it’s fun to cozy up inside over a hot cocktail.

Sabai – This is a beautiful restaurant that serves authentic and fresh Thai food…some of the best I’ve ever had. Try the Avocado Curry! It’s to-die for!

The Excelsior – This refined Italian restaurant serves handmade pasta and homemade deserts you’ll swoon over.

The Etc.

Just a few tips for your adventures in wine country!

– If you had a great host during a tasting in wine country, consider leaving them a tip for their services. $2-$5 per tasting is a nice gesture, especially if the tasting was complimentary and you do not purchase any wine.

– If for some reason you do not enjoy a taste of wine that was poured for you – feel free to dump it out! No one will be offended. I promise!

– No one likes that sloppy drunk person at a winery, and really everyone wants to have a good time. Not play babysitter. Be aware of how much you’re drinking!

– So many wineries and so little time! Just make sure to stay hydrated and well-fed.

Thanks for reading my travel guide to Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country! I hope you’ve enjoyed it..I’d love to hear from you on what some of your favorite wineries are..please leave them in the comments below!

XO,

M

As an affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases as well as other affiliate links found in this post. Please see my Disclosure for more information. 

Girls Weekend in Oregon Wine Country oregon pinot oregon pinot noir oregon travel oregon travel guide oregon wine oregon wine country Oregon Wine Travel pinot gris pinot noir portland travel guide travel guide willamette valley willamette valley travel willamette valley travel guide Wine Country wine country weekend