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Oregon’s wine industry is just a few decades old, but vintners are already producing wines that compete with—and often outshine—some of the world’s best labels. And many of these wines are crafted just 45 minutes southwest of Portland in the heart of the Willamette Valley. With more than 200 wineries, this area is known as one of the premier Pinot noir-producing areas in the world, though it’s gaining recognition for its Pinot gris, Chardonnay, Syrah and others. Among the growing number of wineries in the northern Willamette Valley, many have tasting rooms and wines for sale on-site, as well as picnic areas, live music in the summer and tours of their facilities.
The Ponzi Wine Bar features Ponzi wines in addition to some of the valley’s finest producers. Wines are presented by tastings, rotating flights, bottle or case. Also, an appetizer menu is offered, making the visit even more enjoyable. Just next door is The Dundee Bistro, which features courtyard seating, fireside dining and an enthusiastic staff. The Bistro’s signature fare is Willamette Valley cuisine, celebrating local, sustainably-farmed and seasonal ingredients that complement the award-winning international wine list. This unique place is truly nestled in the wine valley, so don’t be surprised to find a local vintner dining at the next table. In 1967, Dick Erath was one of the first to recognize the grape growing potential of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Today, some of the oldest Pinot noir grapevines in the New World hug the gentle slopes surrounding Erath Winery, the original winery of the unique Dundee Hills. At Erath, using a rare combination of earth and heart, they are disciplined in and dedicated to the art of Pinot. Erath produces highly-acclaimed Pinot noirs that showcase the unique character of the varietal. Not to be outdone are their cool-climate whites, Pinot gris and Pinot blanc – fresh, lively and food-friendly. As the winery enters its fourth decade of winemaking, Erath embraces its leadership role in producing world-class wines that reflect their home terroir. You can taste these elegant, fruit-forward wines at the Erath Winery Tasting Room from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. McMinnville, Dundee, Carlton and other historic towns within the Willamette Valley wine country are well known for their charming bed and breakfasts, In historic downtown McMinnville, you’ll find McMenamins Hotel Oregon, a friendly pub with 42 antique-filled guestrooms. The Hotel’s Cellar Bar serves regional wine, handcrafted ales and spirits and features live music on the weekends. You can’t leave this property without visiting the legendary Rooftop Bar (with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the valley), which offers lunch and dinner in addition to their handcrafted ales, wines and spirits. Another McMenamins property, Grand Lodge, is located in Forest Grove, just north of wine country. This former Masonic Lodge was built in 1922 and now houses 77 European-style lodging rooms, multiple restaurants and small bars, the relaxing Ruby’s Spa and outdoor soaking pool, movie theater and 10-hole disc golf course. This is an ideal place to bring family and friends for an enjoyable lunch at Yardhouse Grill on the sweeping front lawn or live music in the mosaic-tiled basement. Finally, the Willamette Valley has everything it needs to entice visitors to extend their stay—a luxurious destination inn and spa in the heart of wine country, where you’ll enjoy some of the best local wines, cuisine and natural beauty that Oregon has to offer. The Allison, Oregon wine country’s Premier Inn & Spa, opens September 2009 and features 85 exquisite guest rooms and suites, each with a terrace or balcony, fireplace, original art work and custom crafted furnishings. In addition to an expansive menu of delightful personal options from facials to massages, the international caliber spa offers an indoor swimming pool, terrace and fitness suite. Jory, The Allison’s signature restaurant, will reward your palate with creative presentations of the best and freshest of Oregon’s bounty. Stroll the meandering footpaths of The Allison’s 30 acres of hillside gardens and vineyards as you savor the fresh scents of Oregon and, perhaps, enjoy a private picnic lunch. With special occasion and meeting facilities for 10–200 guests, The Allison will exceed your anticipation. Click here for a handy map of Oregon's Wine Country or browse our wine listings.
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excellent restaurants, and antiques and specialty shops that draw visitors year-round.
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