In 2016, Willamette Valley was named wine region of the year by Wine Enthusiast magazine. As one of the world’s premier pinot noir producing regions, Willamette Valley is a great place to visit if you love wine, but Pinot Noir in particular. Not only does this cool-climate region produce award-winning Pinot Noir that rivals some of the best around the world, but you’ll also find exceptional Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc.

Of course, with nearly 600 wineries to choose from, how do you decide where to visit? We’ve compiled our list of the nine best places so you don’t have to. From hillside views to intimate experiences, go forth and explore the wonderful wines of Willamette Valley at any of these best wineries for newcomers.

Off The Beaten Path

Courtesy of Utopia Vineyard

Utopia Vineyard & Winery

17445 NE Ribbon Ridge Road, Newberg, OR 97132, (503) 687-1671

Utopia, located in the Ribbon Ridge AVA of Willamette, began winning awards for their estate Pinot Noir almost as soon as they began producing wine. All of the vineyards are dry-farmed, ensuring complex flavors and sustainability. Known for their “fun and games” approachable style, newcomers to Willamette Valley will love that owner Dan Warnshuis can usually be found in the tasting room greeting guests and answering questions. In addition to Pinot Noir, Utopia produces Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and a Rosé of Pinot Noir.

Heritage Food & Wine Pairings

Courtesy of Alloro Vineyard

Alloro Vineyard

Alloro is a small production (3,000 cases annually) winery producing 100% estate-grown Pinot Noir. Alloro also farms produce and raises Heritage sheep and Hereford cattle, employing sustainable, organic, and LIVE certified principles (a high level sustainability certification that includes every aspect of winemaking, including the vineyards) in all aspects of viticulture and farming. You’ll definitely want to visit this Chehalem Mountain winery in September when they host their annual farm-to-table dinner; 80% of the food is produced right there at Alloro. In 2017, their 2014 Estate Pinot Noir was on Wine Enthusiast’s ‘Top 100 Wines of the World’ list.

Pioneers in Pinot

Courtesy of Erath

Erath Winery

1439 NW Marshall Street, Portland, OR 97209, (503) 538-3318

No visit to Willamette Valley would be complete without a taste of Erath wines, the first winery to commercially produce Pinot Noir (216 cases) in the Dundee Hills and a pioneering winery in Oregon. Erath is widely considered a leader in making Pinot Noir which truly represents a distinct sense of place. Though the tasting room is located in Portland, it’s worth a stop before or after your time in the Willamette Valley, and no tasting reservations are required.

Private Tastings With The Owner

Courtesy of Bells Up Winery

Bells Up Winery

27895 NE Bell Road, Newberg, OR 97132, (503) 537-1328

Bells Up is a micro-boutique winery in the Chehalem Mountains AVA making classic Pinot Noir, and is the only winery in Willamette Valley to produce Seyval Blanc, a white wine made from a French hybrid grape. The tasting room and each of the wines are classical music-themed, as owner and winemaker Dave Specter was a professional French horn player. Be sure to book your appointment in advance, as the winery only offers three tastings per day. You will meet Dave Specter and possibly Sara Specter, the brains behind the scene, who will be your private hosts.

A Leader in Biodynamics

Courtesy of Brooks

Brooks

21101 SE Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity, OR 97101, (503) 435-1278

There are many reasons Brooks should be on your list of wineries to visit in Willamette Valley, one of the top reasons being that Brooks is known for its outstanding Riesling and Pinot Noir wines. Wine and Spirits Magazine agrees – Brooks was listed in the top 100 wineries in the world in 2019. Then there are the pizza parties on Fridays, winery concerts, vineyard tours in an all-terrain vehicle, and many options for food and wine pairings throughout the year. Finally, if you’re seeking biodynamic wines, you definitely want to visit Brooks, one of the only Demeter certified wineries in Willamette Valley.

Wake Up In a Vineyard

Courtesy of Youngberg Hill

Youngberg Hill

10660 SW Youngberg Hill Road, McMinnville, OR 97128, (503) 389-8174

Only 25 miles from the Oregon Coast in McMinnville, Youngberg Hill’s mountain-view tasting room offers several tasting experiences, including a winemaker tour that includes all aspects of managing a vineyard and winemaking. The family-owned winery is also equipped to host weddings and corporate events in the ten-bedroom Inn, located on-site. Specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown in organic and biodynamic vineyards, Youngberg Hill has been recognized as a top winery in Willamette Valley and is worth a visit.

Sustainability First

Courtesy of Stoller Family Estate

Stoller Family Estate

16161 NE McDougall Road, Dayton, OR 97114, (503) 864-3404

Stoller is located in the Dundee Hills AVA, a region best known for producing award-winning Pinot Noir – and that is the focus at Stoller. However, Stoller also produces wine from nine other varieties so there is no doubt you will find something you love. Located just 28 miles from Portland on a picturesque 400-acre property, a poll by USA Today 10 Best named Stoller the nation’s number one tasting room experience in 2018. A visit to the LIVE Certified and LEED Gold winery overlooking the vines is a treat, but if you decide you need to extend your visit, Stoller has a number of beautiful guest house options to accommodate groups and couples.

World-Class Sparkling

Courtesy of Argyle

Argyle

691 OR-99W, Dundee, OR 97115, (503) 538-8520

Argyle Winery is consistently recognized for the quality of its sparkling wines – many of which, like a good Champagne, can be aged for years. It is also the only winery in Willamette to produce wines that are consistently rated by Wine Spectator as the Top 100 Wines of the World in three categories: red, white, and sparkling. The tasting room, once a hazelnut processing plant, has been open since 1987 when Argyle produced its first vintage. Book an appointment in advance and enjoy tasting wines from one of Willamette’s oldest and highest rated wineries. Don’t worry if you don’t like bubbles, Argyle also produces a large number of still wines.

Historical Perspectives

Courtesy of The Eyrie Vineyards

The Eyrie Vineyards

935 NE 10th Avenue, McMinnville, OR 97128, (503) 472-6315

The Wall Street Journal named The Eyrie Vineyards “A ‘Must-Visit’ Willamette Valley Winery,” but that’s especially true for newcomers who want to learn more about the region’s early days of winemaking. The Eyrie Vineyards was founded by the late pioneering grape grower David Lett, who planted his first vines in the Willamette Valley in 1965. Today, under the direction of his wife Diana and son Jason Lett, David’s legacy lives on through The Erie Vineyards’ artisanal wines made from organically-grown estate fruit. When visiting the winery and tasting room, you’ll get to taste through a diverse selection of wines, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir, each highlighting the unique terroir of Eyrie’s estate vineyards.

– Best Oregon Pinots to Enjoy Now –

– Best Places to Stay in Oregon Wine Country –

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Whether you’re visiting Wine Country in California, Oregon, or even Virginia, there’s no better way to get a bird’s eye view than a hot air balloon excursion. Regardless if you’ve got romance on your mind, or are just looking for a fun excursion with friends, hot air ballooning is one of the most memorable experiences you can find in Wine Country. So, when you’re ready to soar high above the vineyards, here are a few top balloon companies to look for – in California and beyond.

California

Napa Valley

Courtesy of Napa Valley Balloons

Napa Valley Balloons, Inc.

Napa Valley is spectacular from any vantage point, but soaring over the vineyards of Napa is truly something else. Since 1980, Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. has remained one of the premier hot air balloon companies in California, offering unforgettable balloon experiences for groups and couples looking to celebrate a special occasion. They even offer packages that pair balloon excursions with bike tours and wine tastings for the ultimate Wine Country experience.

Napa Valley Aloft

As one of the original hot air balloon companies in Napa Valley, founded in 1978, Napa Valley Aloft has welcomed thousands of people to experience the breathtaking views and unforgettable memories that come with ballooning over the world-famous Napa Valley. From one of three different balloon launch sites, guests will enjoy a serene 40-60+ minute flight, along with the option to enjoy a post-flight Champagne toast to complete the morning adventure. Sign us up.

Temecula

Courtesy of Facebook: California Dreamin’

California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures

A prime wine destination for Southern Californians, Temecula offers plenty of sunshine, wine, and good fun year-round; there’s a reason why it’s a top Wine Country region for hot air ballooning. Hop aboard a flight with California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures and you’ll be taking in epic views of the region’s vineyards, along with citrus groves, mountains, and lakes. On weekends, all flights include a post-flight breakfast at a local winery, complete with eggs, fresh fruit, bread, cheese, and mimosas.

A Grape Escape

With over 30 years of experience soaring above the Temecula Valley, A Grape Escape knows a thing or two about making the most of Temecula from above. From group flights to private flights, each 60-75+ minute sunrise ballooning experience includes beautiful views of Wine Country, naturally, as well as post-flight mimosas and sparkling wine at a local winery.

Santa Barbara

Courtesy of Facebook: Sky’s the Limit

Sky’s the Limit Ballooning Santa Barbara

With over 200 wineries in Santa Barbara County and mild weather year-round, you can imagine the views over this region are breathtaking – think vineyard, mountain, ocean, and island vistas. After taking in the scenery from above, you’ll cap off your Sky’s the Limit balloon experience with a post-flight Champagne toast. Well deserved, we think. And, while most regions only do sunrise balloon rides, Sky’s The Limit offers sunset flights, as well, which makes for one incredible way to close out the day. Just don’t forget your camera!

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Courtesy of Vista Balloon Adventures

Vista Balloon Adventures

While visiting Oregon, you can’t miss making time to explore the Willamette Valley, and while wine tasting may be a big draw here, don’t sleep on the opportunity to take to the sky. With Vista Balloons, you’ll fly over this gorgeous Wine Country for about an hour, touching down back in Newberg where you can easily continue your wine tasting journey at some of the area’s many incredible wineries. It’s a win-win.

Virginia

Charlottesville

Courtesy of Monticello Country Ballooning

Monticello Country Ballooning

While lesser known than the wine regions of California and the Pacific Northwest, grapes have been grown in Charlottesville and Albemarle County since Thomas Jefferson started cultivating them in the late 1800s. Monticello Country Ballooning will have you soaring over the historic buildings of Monticello (Thomas Jefferson’s Estate), along the valley beside the Blue Ridge Mountains, and even over the University of Virginia. Whether you take a sunrise or sunset flight, your experience includes digital photos and a Champagne toast. Cin cin.

– Fun Things to do in Temecula –

– Weekend in Los Olivos, Santa Barbara County –

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As winemakers from all over the world bring their experience and energy to this pocket of the Pacific Northwest, there’s no better time than now to explore all Oregon has to offer. Here are 10 Oregon pinot noir wines to reach for this season.

Evening Land, La Source Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills

Sommelier Rajat Parr and winemaker Sashi Moorman made a name for themselves with their Santa Barbara pinot noir-focused labels, Domaine de la Cote and Sandhi, and their first project in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills continues the tradition of elegant pinot noirs. Vines for La Source are planted on shallow, rocky soils at the top of the Seven Springs Vineyard, and grapes express red fruit, mushroom, and floral notes.

Penner-Ash, Estate Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton

Founded in 1988, Penner-Ash’s 15 acres of LIVE-certified estate vineyard continues to produce riveting pinots. Blackberry, pepper, and violets on the nose give way to concentrated fruit on the palate. Though fruit-forward, there’s a lightness to the wine, with fine-grain tannins that provide a lovely texture.

Ken Wright, Savoya Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton

Ken Wright thinks of his wines as having both soprano and bass components and looks for an equal balance in his award-winning pinots. Black fruits and black tea notes often define the wines from this vineyard, which is named after the Spanish word for “onion” as the soils often carry the sweet scent of this vegetable.

Et Fille, Fairsing Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton

From this higher-elevation site comes a pinot with plummy, very expressive fruit, a hint of mocha, pepper, and baking spices. Founded by father-daughter duo Howard and Jessica Mozeico, the focus on single vineyards shows off the diversity of Willamette Valley pinot noir.

Elk Cove, La Bohème Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton

The Pommard clone (originally from Burgundy) dominates in Yamhill-Carlton — one of the highest elevation sites in Willamette Valley. Because of the cool climate and slow ripening conditions, grapes are picked as late as November. Blueberry, violets, and plum on the nose meet a mineral, flinty undertone. Along with bright tannins, on the palate, the wine has good acidity, plus silky but crunchy fruit.

Domaine Nicolas Jay, L’Ensemble Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

What happens when a music executive and a famous Burgundy producer get together? They create one of Oregon’s most exciting new labels. With Nicolas Jay, Jean-Nicolas Meo of Domaine Meo-Camuzet, and Jay Boberg, a music entrepreneur, seek out top vineyard sites in the region to craft their Burgundy-inspired pinots. L’Ensemble is comprised of the best blocks from the entire Willamette Valley and shows off dark fruit, forest floor, and a long, lengthy finish.

Domaine Drouhin, Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills

The Drouhins brought their centuries of winemaking experience in Burgundy to Oregon in the 1980s and were the first to plant Dijon clones in Oregon, which influenced others to follow suit. Black cherry, floral notes, and rose all shine in this signature pinot noir from Dundee Hills, balanced by structure and fine tannins from time spent in French oak.

Archery Summit, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

The small-production estate predominantly works with vineyards from renowned Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills AVAs, and their Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is an elegant balance of power and finesse from the two different areas. Black cherry, black tea, and spice jump out of this highly aromatic wine.

Geodesy, Chehalem Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountain

The aim of Geodesy isn’t just to craft beautiful wines, but it aims to empower and support the next generation of women in agriculture. The label was founded by Judy Jordan, the founder of J Vineyards and Winery. All proceeds from Geodesy support the WG Edge program (Women Gaining an Edge), which educates and provides leadership opportunities for its mentees. This elegant wine smells of red and black fruits, forest floor, with hints of cardamom and clove on the finish.

Gran Moraine, Rosé of Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton

Rosé is fast becoming a favorite wine for the Thanksgiving table due to its food-friendly, versatile nature. Marry the best of both worlds with this rosé of pinot noir. Strawberry and ripe berry fruits meet delicate floral tones, but there’s a streak of savory minerality that makes this complex quaffer a great match for the feast.

– Celebrate With These Sparkling Wines for the Holidays –

– 9 Willamette Valley Wineries for Newcomers to Oregon Wines –

The post The 10 Best Oregon Pinot Noirs to Enjoy Right Now first appeared on WineCountry.com.

“Oregon Wine Country is vast and diverse,” says Carrie Wynkoop, founder and CEO of Cellar 503, an Oregon-only wine club centered on the discovery of wineries and grape growers throughout Oregon’s many winemaking regions. “Most folks associate Oregon with pinot noir grown in the Willamette Valley, but there is wine produced literally in every part of the state.”

Planning a trip? The state’s 18 AVAs feature many different meso-climates, allowing an A-Z of wine grapes grown. Each region is dotted with boutique and luxury hotels, charming B&Bs and cozy Wine Country inns, on-site winery guest houses, and offbeat lodging options. We have compiled a list of ten of our favorites to help you plan the perfect Oregon Wine Country getaway.

Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast

Courtesy of Chehalem Ridge

This upscale bed and breakfast is located in Newberg, Oregon, 1000 feet up on Chehalem Mountain, overlooking Willamette Valley’s Wine Country. Recently named a 2021 Travelers’ Choice Award winner by TripAdvisor, Chehalem Ridge features five tastefully appointed rooms with attached private bathrooms, stunning views, and modern amenities like heated balconies, jetted tubs, fireplaces, and gourmet breakfasts centered around homemade and local ingredients.

The Allison Inn & Spa

Courtesy of The Allison Inn & Spa

Travelers looking for Wine Country luxury will want to book a stay at this stunning resort and spa, set in the foothills of the Willamette Valley, with views of snow-capped mountain ranges, rolling hills, farmlands, and, of course, vineyards. Enjoy creative farm-to-table cuisine inspired by the Willamette Valley’s abundant local agriculture, not to mention one of the most noteworthy wine lists in the Pacific Northwest at JORY Restaurant, rejuvenate with a healing spa treatment, or simply take in the many opportunities to enjoy your surroundings through walking trails, an open-air art gallery, lush gardens, and vineyards.

The Vintages Trailer Resort

Courtesy of The Vintages Trailer Resort

If glamping is more your speed, The Vintages Trailer Resort offers a unique, family-centered lodging experience in the heart of the Willamette Valley. The resort features 35 refurbished and stylishly decorated retro trailers with outdoor grills and cruiser bikes to make the most of your outdoor surroundings. Luxury touches include gourmet pour-over coffee, cozy terry cloth robes, and premium hotel-quality linens, while the classic glamping vibe offers firepits, outdoor lawn games, and a pet-friendly policy.

Abbey Road Farm’s Silo Suites B&B

Courtesy of Abbey Road Farm

At Abbey Road Farm, three functional grain silos were combined and converted to create a luxurious, one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast experience. Guests enter the inn through a grand lobby and sitting area with wet bar to one of five suites featuring foam topped beds, Jacuzzi tubs, premium bedding, and ambient floor heating. Stays include a bounteous Oregon breakfast prepared by on-site chef/innkeeper, Will Preisch. Guests will delight in meeting the grounds’ resident ducks, alpacas, sheep, donkeys, goats, and chickens, warming themselves in the evening around the outdoor fireplace, or tasting the newest vintages from resident winemakers.

The Independence Hotel

Courtesy of The Independence Hotel / Emily Crilley Miller

This 75-room boutique hotel on the banks of the Willamette River in the small, historic town of Independence is the perfect home base for wine travelers. With a design that integrates natural elements inspired by the outdoors with premium hotel amenities like in-room bike storage, luxury robes, a restaurant and bar overlooking the outdoor patio, and a rooftop deck with 360-degree views of the Willamette River, wine enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle will find an ideal sanctuary here.

Lumos Wine Company

Courtesy of Reed Lane Photography

Located on a historic family farm in the Willamette Valley just 40 miles east of the Oregon Coast, this winery, known for its award-winning wines from USDA/Oregon-certified organic vineyards, was once a 1940s dude ranch. Elements of the property’s unique history can be found throughout: The tasting room is located in an old barn originally built as a dance floor, and the winery’s delightful guest accommodation – one of the original dude ranch guest cabins – invites visitors to unplug in a cozy, rustic farm setting that feels like a moment in time in Wine Country’s storied past.

Domaine Serene

Courtesy of Domaine Serene

In search of something more exclusive? Visit Domaine Serene Winery, which features four on-site guest houses that sleep anywhere from two to ten guests in the Dundee Hills AVA of the Willamette Valley. Accommodations are only available to members of the Domaine Serene Wine Club, the perks of which include access to these guest winery accommodations, as well as highly allocated wines, Member’s Lounge Privileges, and membership awards accrual that can be redeemed for wines, merchandise, exclusive events, and even guest house stays at their sister winery, Château de la Crée, in Burgundy, France.

Ashland Springs Hotel

Courtesy of Ashland Springs Hotel

Located in the charming town of Ashland, in the Rogue River Valley of Southern Oregon, this downtown landmark was built in 1925 and restored to recreate the aesthetic of a boutique European hotel, while preserving the elegant history of the original property. Guests can enjoy premium amenities like Frette linens, soaker tubs, and rain shower heads, as well as complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and cookies, and a meal or cocktail at the award-winning Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine, featuring innovative comfort dishes that celebrate Oregon’s farms, orchards, creameries, and meat ranchers, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and a wide selection of local wines.

The Brenner Suite at C.H. Bailey House

Courtesy of C.H. Bailey House Bed and Breakfast

This private “green” bungalow located at the historic C.H. Bailey House in Southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley is surrounded by countless hiking trails and waterfalls along the Umpqua River, inviting guests to reconnect with their natural surroundings. The bungalow is deeply committed to protecting and preserving the earth, using solar power, earth-friendly cleaning products, and sustainable gardening practices. Each stay includes complimentary gourmet breakfasts, in-room cheese and crackers, and local wines and beer on-tap.

The Gordon Hotel

Courtesy of Andrew Nelson

Travelers looking for a hip lodging experience in a more urban setting should check out The Gordon, an art-centric, 82-room boutique hotel in Eugene Oregon, housed in the 5th Street Public Market. While Eugene is the gateway to the Southern Willamette Valley, wine lovers could easily curate their own city wine getaway by touring the four tasting rooms located within the market itself, not to mention many downtown tasting rooms. The hotel also offers an “art bar” in the lobby, inviting guests to create their own artistic masterpieces with clay, paint, Polaroids, and more.

— 8 Willamette Valley Wineries for Newcomers to Oregon Wines —

— The Most Sustainable Wineries in America —

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It’s Only Natural

Organic

Sustainable

What Makes It Vegan?

Certified Organic

California

Pacific Northwest

Other Areas

Final Word

The post Discover Vegan and Organic Wines: What’s The Difference and What To Look For first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Flights and a View

The Hills Are Alive

Sips in the City

Between Mount Hood and Hood River

Oregonian, not French

The post Put These 5 Oregon Wineries On Your Radar first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Deschutes Brewery

Rogue Ales Brewery

Full Sail Brewing Co.

Barley Brown’s Beer and Brew Pub

Cascade Brewing Barrel House

Hair of the Dog Brewing Company

Ten Barrel

Alameda Brewing Co.

The post Oregon’s Breweries first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Cuisine from Elegant to “Home Dining Room”

Image Source: The Painted Lady Restaurant

An Array of Lodging Choices

Image Source: Dundee Manor

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