TOURING GUIDE 2026 — 2027 Choose True Character 500+ WINERIES | 20 MAPS | 7 ITINERARIES
Welcome to Tualatin Valley, where wine is our love language. Explore the more than 40 estate wineries and wine tasting rooms at the closest wine region to Portland, and experience our intimate world of wine. TUALATINVALLEY.ORG Sosta House THE PERFECT PLACE TO DEVELOP A CRUSH. EXPLORE THE COUNTLESS VARIETIES OF WINES, JUST WEST OF PORTLAND. etvor.com/wine17
dancin and the wine dress are the trademarks of dancin vineyards, llc. all rights reserved. 4477 south stage road, medford, oregon 1 dancin.com 1 541.245.1133 Meet me at Dancin. “A perfect wine country experience.” ~ Hilarie Larson “One of the most innovative producers…in Southern Oregon.” ~ Forbes Day or Night chardonnay pinot noir port syrah zinfandel
Learn more and make reservations at wvv.com/Visit 8800 Enchanted Way SE · Turner, OR 97392 · (503) 588-9463 · info@wvv.com Jim Bernau, Founder/President · · · · Wine Tastings & Food Pairings Experience our classic Oregon wines paired with seasonal cuisine in a relaxed setting featuring indoor/outdoor dining and cozy fireplaces.
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 3 No Place Like This Place When people ask why grow grapes and produce wine in Oregon, we glance around at the land and the vineyards and the cellars, and we say: Because look at it. This is why we invite people to eat and drink at our table. Why we trust the rain and value the sun. Why we always work together to give the world our best. Why we mean what we do and do what we mean and why we say, Here, you’ve got to try this. We’re eager for you to discover, for the first time or the 10th time, the Oregon wine experience that’s best for you. If you’re looking for Pinot noir, you’ll find it. If you’re looking for Riesling, Syrah or nearly 100 other varieties, you’ll find them, too. If you want a glass by a roaring river, you can have it. If you prefer a vintage bottle at an intimate table with flickering candles, well, you can have that, too. In Oregon wine country, someone’s passion is waiting to become your postcard. Here is a warm and welcoming community to help you discover Oregon. Choose True Character. Explore Oregon wine country. On the cover: Analemma Wines. Photography by Aubrie LeGault.
Come Explore With Us mpqua O r e g o n ’ s Hidden Gem Valley
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 5 Contents FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF JORY; JOHN VALLS 9 OREGON GRAPES 101 Over 100 different types of grapes are grown across Oregon’s American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). These are some of the most popular varieties and how to pair them with local cuisine. WINE REGIONS & TOURING MAPS From Oregon’s small towns to big cities and everywhere in between, it’s easy to sip award-winning wine all year round in the fresh air. These itineraries and more than 500 tasting room listings will show you how. 27 COLUMBIA GORGE & COLUMBIA VALLEY 34 WALLA WALLA VALLEY & THE ROCKS DISTRICT OF MILTON-FREEWATER 39 ROGUE VALLEY 45 UMPQUA VALLEY 51 SOUTH & CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY 57 NORTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY 73 PORTLAND 12 WINE EXPERIENCES From wineries with cozy fireplaces and dining rooms to vineyards where you can enjoy a wine-fueled hike, here are a few great places for a wine experience in Oregon. 16 WINE TRENDS Enjoy Oregon wine with everything from horseback rides to no-reservations tastings. Stay on trend with our award-winning bubbles and restaurants with great wine lists. Kriselle Cellars JORY restaurant
DISCOVER THE ESSENCE OF ONE OF OREGON’S MOST AWARD-WINNING WINERIES Please enjoy our wines responsibly. © 2025 Lingua Franca, www.linguafranca.wine VISIT US IN THE HEART OF WILLAMETTE VALLEY 9675 Hopewell Rd NW, Salem, Oregon | 503-687-3005 | info@linguafranca.wine | linguafranca.wine/visit Immerse yourself in the heart of Oregon’s wine country while experiencing the elegance and tranquility of Lingua Franca’s vineyards, where each glass tells a story of the land and our dedication to exceptional winemaking.
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 7 Oregon Wine Official Touring Guide A publication of the Oregon Wine Board info@oregonwine.org www.oregonwine.org EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Gina Bianco CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Sally Crawford MARKETING DIRECTOR Carissa Cook PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER Ben Engel EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Stacey Kohler RESEARCH & EDUCATION DIRECTOR Jess Willey KEY CONSULTANT – INTERNATIONAL MARKETING & EXPORT Margaret Bray KEY CONSULTANT Bree Stock MW DIRECTORS Chair Greg Jones Vice Chair Tiquette Bramlett Treasurer Adam Ramirez Cristina Gonzales, Dionne Irvine, Austin Kraemer, Gary Mortensen, Robert Moshier, Anna Maria Ponzi The Oregon Wine Official Touring Guide is published by MEDIAmerica DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING Megan Kirkpatrick CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nickie Bournias EDITOR Jennifer Burns Bright CONTRIBUTORS Margot Bigg, Andrew Collins, Kerry Newberry, Margarett Waterbury COPY EDITOR Morgan Stone SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Betsy Hand ADVERTISING PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Max Cyphers DIGITAL PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Alison Kattleman MEDIAMERICA INC. President/CEO Andrew Insinga Controller Bill Lee CORPORATE OFFICE 12570 SW 69th Ave, Suite 102 Portland, OR 97223 Phone: 503.223.0304 Fax: 503.221.6544 www.mediamerica.net Copyright © 2025 by the Oregon Wine Board. All rights reserved. Neither the Oregon Wine Board nor MEDIAmerica Inc. is responsible for changes or variances that occur following publication. Printed in Oregon by Journal Graphics. 19255 N HWY 99W, Dayton, OR 97114 Jim Bernau, Founder/President Taste our Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wine and Oregon-grown red wines paired with warm hospitality, local cuisine, guided tours and views of Demetercertified biodynamic Bernau Estate Vineyard. Plan your visit at DomaineWillamette.com
Atticus Wine
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 9 Over 100 different types of grapes are grown across Oregon’s 23 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), which helps explain the vast diversity of Oregon wine. Here are some of our favorites and food-pairing suggestions to go with your glass pour. RIESLING Though less common in Oregon, Riesling has a unique profile and a loyal following. Often dry, it offers floral aromas, crisp apple and vivid minerality. >> You’ll find it lovely with spicy Thai food or Rogue Creamery blue cheese. PINOT GRIS Pinot noir’s white counterpart excels in the Willamette Valley and Southern Oregon. You’ll find several styles of this wine, with notes ranging from zesty citrus to lush pear and melon. >> Try a glass alongside Dungeness crab or a goat-cheese salad. CHARDONNAY Common in the Rogue and Willamette valleys, Oregon Chardonnay is usually unoaked or lightly oaked, with apple, pear and lemon flavors. >> It’s a perfect match for pan-seared trout or hazelnut-crusted chicken. VIOGNIER Suited to warmer climates like those in Southern Oregon, this white varietal offers stone fruit, floral notes and minerality. >> Pair with roasted root vegetables or crab cakes topped with citrus aioli. GAMAY Light-bodied and juicy, Oregon Gamay boasts red-berry flavors and a touch of spice. >> Perfect at holiday gatherings, it’s a natural partner for charcuterie, roast chicken and turkey, or Tillamook white cheddar. PINOT NOIR Oregon’s signature grape, originally from Burgundy, loves the cool climate in much of the state. Light to medium-bodied, it has bright acidity and flavors of cherry, earth and herbs. >> Enjoy it with wild-mushroom risotto or cedar-planked salmon. TEMPRANILLO A warm-climate favorite in Southern Oregon, Tempranillo is rich and bold, with blackberry, dark cherry and spice notes. >> It’s an excellent choice to accompany marionberry-glazed duck or roast lamb. SYRAH Flourishing in Eastern and Southern Oregon, this deep, spicy red wine features blackberry, pepper and smoke. >> Great with elk burgers or smoked brisket. CABERNET SAUVIGNON Big and structured, Oregon’s Cabernets grow best in sunny areas. Expect dark fruit, firm tannins and hints of tobacco when you take a sip. >> The rich complexity of this wine becomes evident when it’s paired with a grilled ribeye or mushroom-lentil stew. Oregon Grapes 101 GIVING BACK Wineries across the state work to give back to the communities and organizations that help our planet. One key program is ¡Salud!, a collaboration between Oregon winery owners and the Hillsboro Medical Center Foundation, designed to ensure that wine workers and their families have access to health services. There’s even a mobile health-outreach program that brings health care services straight to vineyards. Other industry-supported initiatives include AHIVOY, a nonprofit organization that supports the professional development of Latinx vineyard stewards through educational programming, and the Willamette Valley Wine Foundation, which supports affordable housing, health care and education for wine workers and their families. You too can support wine businesses and activities in the state with an Oregon wine-country license plate, available when you register your vehicle in Oregon. AARON LEE
10 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE FROM TOP: ANDRÉA JOHNSON; CHERYL JUETTEN While most wine lovers are familiar with organic wine production, biodynamic winemaking is less understood. The biodynamic approach, which treats the farm as a living entity and relies on the lunar calendar for plantings, was conceptualized in the 1920s by Rudolf Steiner, who is best known as the father of the Waldorf education system. Key practices include using natural preparations, which are made by stuffing cow horns with manure or pulverized quartz crystals and then burying them for a set number of days or weeks. These preparations are then dug up and transformed into sprays. Biodynamic farmers also use cover crops and “teas” made from bark and herbs to help keep their farms’ ecosystems harmonious. These treatments translate into healthier land and better-quality grapes for wine without the need for pesticides. It also helps foster the wild yeasts that allow the wine to ferment naturally without the aid of commercial yeasts. DEMETER-CERTIFIED BIODYNAMIC WINERIES Although many wineries in Oregon use biodynamic methods to varying degrees, look for wines that bear the Demeter Association’s certification label to be sure that you’re getting a biodynamic product. Demeter-certified biodynamic wineries can be found across the state, from Analemma Wines in the Columbia River Gorge to Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden in Southern Oregon’s Applegate What Is Biodynamic Wine? Valley. The bulk of the state’s Demeter-certified wineries, however, are in the Willamette Valley, including McMinnville’s Maysara Winery; Johan Vineyards in the Van Duzer Corridor; Montinore Estate, which has plantings in the Tualatin Hills and Yamhill-Carlton AVAs; and King Estate near Eugene, one of the country’s largest biodynamiccertified wineries. BEYOND BIODYNAMICS Many biodynamic wineries take their commitment to sustainability a step further by adding additional ecology-focused certifications to their repertoire. Southern Oregon’s Troon Vineyard is one of the select vineyards in the world to have received Regenerative Organic Gold certification, which is awarded to farms that follow practices that help nourish and protect topsoil. The Willamette Valley’s Ambar Estate is Oregon’s only other Regenerative Organic Certified® vineyard. Here farmers rely on natural methods such as the use of native cover crops to nourish plantings. Other certifications include LIVE (Low-Impact Viticulture and Enology), which is awarded to producers who emphasize sustainable practices, and Salmon-Safe, which certifies wineries that integrate practices designed to protect waterways and fish. Soter Vineyards in Carlton has both and is also a flagship partner with the Oregon Bee Project for bee-safe viticultural practices. Maysara Winery Montinore Estate
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 11 Uncork the Good Life Your Oregon Wine Country Realtor Amanda Hagen amandahagen.com 503.744.7557 REAL Broker, LLC DUNDEE CARLTON NEWBERG MCMINNVILLE AMITY DAYTON YAMHILL SHERWOOD live in the and surrounding areas Yamhill Valley TASTING ROOM OPEN FRIDAY-SUNDAY 11-6 9500 SE Eola Hills Rd, Amity 971.267.5267 RED, WHITE, ROSÉ AND SPARKLING, WINE COCKTAILS & BEER. OREGON’S BEST SELECTION OF SPARKLING WINES. OREGON’S FIRST NON-ALCOHOLIC WINES. MADE TO DRINK. DON’T OVER THINK. WALK-INS WELCOME varnumvintners.com varnumvintners@gmail.com ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ Visit our Tasting Room, Live Music, Paint & Sip, and much more! (SCAN HERE) Taste our variety of Wines: Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rose, Specialty Primitivo, Sparkling, & Marionberry Dessert wine. Join our Wine Club! – 3 tiers with special events & discounts! – The feel of the Italian countryside in the heart of the Willamette Valley You’ll find us at the top of the hill ◆ Cheers! – Becky, Terry, Bella 19740 NE Sunnycrest Road | Newberg, Oregon 97132 503.554.5792 info@newbergwinery.com
12 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE Wine Experiences From wineries with cozy fireplaces and dining rooms to vineyards where you can enjoy a wine-fueled hike, here are a few great places for a wine experience in Oregon. Amaterra GREGOR HALENDA
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 13 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JOSH CHANG / FOUNDRY 503; COURTESY OF HUMMINGBIRD ESTATE; COURTESY OF BLACK WALNUT INN & VINEYARD WINERIES WITH LODGING There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Oregon’s wine scene than by staying the night. Located in a charming hundred-year-old house in the heart of Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley, Hummingbird Estate offers elegant rooms that come with free tastings. The Vineyard Cottage with a kitchen is perfect for extended stays. Also in the Rogue Valley, Weisinger Family Winery offers a lovely cottage with a kitchen and an outdoor hot tub, all right next to a Pinot noir vineyard. High in the Dundee Hills in the Northern Willamette Valley, Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard has elegant, serene rooms, many with sweeping valley views. For an alternative take on a night in Willamette Valley wine country, head to Willamette Valley Vineyards’ glamping experience near Salem — Into the Woods RV Park rents out fully equipped Airstream trailers and RV sites for a night among the vines. WINERIES WITH DINING Many Oregon wineries go all out with dining rooms and restaurants showcasing local bounty that pairs beautifully with wine. Perched on a hilltop just west of downtown Portland, Amaterra offers a gourmet dinner menu that features locally sourced ingredients, with a lovely terrace for alfresco summer dining. Its second location in Bend offers fine cuisine and a convivial atmosphere in the heart of downtown. Hood River’s Hiyu Wine Farm serves hearty multicourse lunches and dinners with European-style dishes and seasonal ingredients harvested just steps from the tasting room. In the Willamette Valley, you’ll find tasting menus with pairings, from Soter Vineyards’ seated seven-course lunch to exquisite nibbles at Antica Terra, where you might sample smoked white-fish rillettes and rabbit pâté. For a full restaurant menu, head to Willamette Valley Vineyards’ flagship property near Salem (one of four locations in the Portland and Bend areas). Ashland’s grand Belle Fiore Estate plates up gourmet meals like fresh pasta and filet mignon with a port demi-glace. Dine overlooking the vines on its expansive terrace in warmer seasons. Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard Hummingbird Estate Soter Vineyards
14 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE WINERIES WITH WALKS Many of Oregon’s wineries in the Willamette Valley take advantage of their natural settings by offering guests ways to hike on their properties, either self-led or on a tour. At Eola Hills’ Legacy Estate Vineyard, guests can take a self-guided stroll on the estate’s pet-friendly trail, a great way for Fido to enjoy a wine-tasting jaunt. In the Dundee Hills, guides at Knudsen Vineyards lead hikers through Pinot noir plantings, followed by wine tasting with lunch. If you’re feeling meditative or just need time to decide which bottles to purchase, take a walk through the seven-circuit labyrinth at Fairsing Vineyard. For views of Mt. Hood, head to Grateful Vineyard, which has an alpine meadow where you can go for a wander. In Southern Oregon, take a relaxing stroll at Schmidt Family Vineyards near Grants Pass, featuring sprawling grounds with ponds, gazebos and walking paths, or learn more about Spanish varietals on an expert-led vineyard tour at Abacela near Roseburg — be sure to reserve ahead on the website. WINERIES WITH A VIEW Many tasting rooms provide picturesque backdrops for taking in the scenery while savoring fine wine. One of Dundee’s newest wineries, LucidWild Estate, pairs single-vineyard estate wines with sweeping views of rolling hills dotted with trees and vines. For mountain views, try Bryn Mawr Vineyards near Salem — atop one of the highest peaks in the Eola-Amity Hills — or Hawks View Winery in Sherwood, south of Portland, where you can sip while gazing at Mt. Hood. For an even closer and breathtaking mountain view, head to Mt. Hood Winery in the Columbia Gorge. In the Umpqua Valley, Melrose Vineyards offers postcard-worthy views of the countryside from its 300-acre estate. Eola Hills’ Legacy Estate Vineyard Knudsen Vineyards Hawks View Winery CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY OF HAWKS VIEW WINERY; JOHN VALLS; COURTESY OF EOLA HILLS WINE CELLARS
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 15 WINERIES WITH FIREPLACES Few things are cozier in the cold winter months than sipping wine by a fireplace, and tasting rooms are happy to oblige. Björnson Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills lets guests warm up next to a large stone fireplace in the tasting room at its sprawling regenerative farm. The big fireplace at the modern tasting room of Willamette Valley classic Ponzi Vineyards adds an extra layer of warmth to an already inviting environment filled with art and light. The fireplace at Hood River’s Stave and Stone Wine Estates brings an equally comfy feel to the space, perfect for relaxing with a flight and admiring the architecture. Near Ashland, nestle up to your companion at the fireplace at Dana Campbell Vineyards, where the stunning views include Mt. Ashland and Pilot Rock. Ponzi Vineyards JOHN VALLS
16 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE Wine Trends Enjoy Oregon wine with everything from horseback rides to no-reservations tastings. Stay on trend with our award-winning bubbles and restaurants with great wine lists. Equestrian Wine Tours ANDRÉA JOHNSON
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 17 UNIQUE ADVENTURES Many wineries around the state now offer tasting experiences with a side of adventure. Ride horseback through leafy vineyards in the Willamette Valley with Equestrian Wine Tours. Enjoy a scenic bicycle tour with Wine de Roads in the Chehalem Valley. Practice your tree pose with seasonal yoga classes at Cória Estates near Salem, Namaste Vineyards in Dallas and Jacksonville’s DANCIN Vineyards. To add arts and culture to your tasting, enjoy art-filled spaces at Saffron Fields Vineyards, Trisaetum and Artist Block in the Willamette Valley. In Southern Oregon, you can discover local artists on display at Freed Estate Winery, South Stage Cellars and Hummingbird Estate. The art of cinema comes alive at Domaine Lumineux — owned by the legendary Francis Ford Coppola — with thematic screenings set in an intimate theater in Newberg. Cooks should visit Durant in Dundee to taste a flight of olive oil before sampling excellent wines at the tasting room next to the mill. At Melrose Vineyards in Roseburg, sign up for a cooking class to learn how to make sushi or paella. Between Eugene and Corvallis, RainSong Vineyard offers more than seasonal tastings — visiting groups can sign up to bottle their very own wines, straight from the barrel. Durant Saffron Fields Vineyards FROM TOP: ANDRÉA JOHNSON; COURTESY OF DURANT
18 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE OREGON’S SPARKLING WINE Oregon’s history with sparkling wine dates back almost 40 years with early believers like Argyle Winery, Soter Vineyards and R. Stuart & Co. Winery. But recently, the movement has started to skyrocket with new award-winning wineries specifically dedicated to bubbles. In 2024 Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Wines featured five from Oregon — and they were all sparkling wines. The top bottle on the publication’s list hailed from ROCO Winery in Newberg. Domaine Serene, CHO Wines, Corollary and Irvine & Roberts Vineyards also landed on the list. Primed with the perfect climate for Pinot noir and Chardonnay, producers like Gran Moraine, Lytle-Barnett and Domaine Willamette continue to elevate the state of traditional-method sparkling wine in Oregon. But you’ll also find a range of fun and funky pétillant naturel popping up across the state. Unlike traditional-method sparkling wines, pét-nats use a variety of grapes and allow for more playful options. Seek out producers like Landmass Wines, Day Wines, Fossil & Fawn, and Quady North to try these playful bubbles. And head to Champagne lounge En Tirage in Dundee for a wine list dedicated to selections that sparkle. ROCO Winery JOHN VALLS
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 19 WINERIES WELCOMING WALK-INS Many of the state’s wineries don’t require reservations for tastings, but check each winery’s hours and policies ahead of time. It’s always a possibility to stop in and see if they can accommodate you, if you’re on a spontaneous wine-tasting trip. Of many options for walk-in wineries, you may enjoy these: Cooper Mountain Vineyards can introduce you to the world of organic and biodynamic wines. Sip estate wines in a beautifully renovated horse stable at Benza Vineyards, or take in sweeping views of evergreens and hillside vineyards at Jachter Family Wines. Near Salem, Willamette Valley Vineyards offers daily wine-and-food pairings in an idyllic setting with cozy fireplaces and elegant patios. In the Columbia River Gorge, you can taste Italian varietals like Barbera and Dolcetto at Marchesi Vineyards or Pinot noir paired with picnic provisions at Phelps Creek Vineyards. In Southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley, swing by Abacela to try Spanish varietals like Albariño and Tempranillo. Near the town of Jacksonville, Wooldridge Creek Winery is home to the state’s first joint winery and creamery. Willamette Valley Vineyards Marchesi Vineyards Wooldridge Creek Winery CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY OF WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS; JAK WONDERLY / TRAVEL SOUTHERN OREGON; JORDAN & DANI / TRAVEL OREGON
20 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE WINE-FOCUSED RESTAURANTS Portland’s unparalleled culinary culture is even better with wine. At chic OK Omens, you can match small plates with an extensive list of glass pours devoted to natural wines. Award-winning L’Orange serves its own winery’s Golden Cluster wines and others with an intimate selection of succulent dishes. Elsewhere in the state, wine-country restaurants never fail to show how well Oregon wine pairs with food. At The Joel Palmer House in Dayton, fourth-generation restaurateur Christopher Czarnecki offers a feast that pairs 10 playful courses with local wines. You’ll also find rare bottles on a wine list that’s 95% dedicated to Oregon. At Riverside in Hood River, you can pair Gorge wines with show-stealing pastas. On the sprawling outside patio, look for Albariño vines planted by nearby Analemma Wines. JORY Restaurant at The Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg recently debuted a nine-course tasting menu centered on Native cooking traditions under the helm of executive chef Jack Strong, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The wine list includes vintages made from the property’s vineyards. At Eugene’s Lion & Owl, a James Beard-nominated chef serves hyper-seasonal fare accompanied by a bubbles-focused wine list brimming with small producers. OK Omens JORY Restaurant chef Jack Strong Riverside CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JOHN VALLS; COURTESY OF JORY; COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE
OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 21 BOOK YOUR STAY theallison.com PREMIER DESTINATION RESORT OREGON WINE COUNTRY'S
From Oregon’s small towns to big cities and everywhere in between, it’s easy to enjoy sipping award-winning wine in the fresh air. Pair an outdoor adventure or a culinary trip with your tasting experience — these itineraries will show you how. Plus: Oregon’s wine trails are ready-made road maps for exploring. Navigator p. 27 COLUMBIA GORGE & COLUMBIA VALLEY p. 34 WALLA WALLA VALLEY & THE ROCKS DISTRICT OF MILTONFREEWATER p. 39 ROGUE VALLEY p. 45 UMPQUA VALLEY p. 51 SOUTH & CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY p. 57 NORTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY p. 73 PORTLAND EUGENE PORTLAND PENDLETON MEDFORD ROSEBURG WALLA WALLA BEND HOOD RIVER SALEM ONTARIO OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 23
Columbia River Gorge & Columbia Valley Just 60 miles east of Portland, the Columbia Gorge AVA stretches along a winding river corridor that straddles the Columbia River along the borders of Oregon and Washington. The fairy-tale terrain is also home to over 90 waterfalls and mountain bike trails, and Hood River is world-renowned for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Rent bikes or e-bikes, or cruise along the county’s famous Fruit Loop to pick fruit in season as you make your stops at area tasting rooms. Eastern Oregon If you are drawn to big reds and big sky views, the sun-soaked Walla Walla Valley is calling your name. To understand the appellation, you’ll need to visit both Walla Walla, Wash., and Milton-Freewater, Ore., northeast of Pendleton. About a third of its area — and almost half of its grapes — are located in Oregon. You’ll find everything from orchards and wheat fields to a boutique chocolatier that also stocks local wines. The Rocks District of MiltonFreewater AVA, on the Oregon side of the border, features wines imbued with a special minerality from the unique rocky soil. Southern Oregon Head to the ruggedly beautiful Rogue Valley in Southern Oregon for an exhilarating mix of culture and adventure pursuits. Thrill seekers can ride the rapids on the Rogue River with guided whitewater rafting or kayaking trips or take advantage of numerous mountain trails. You’ll find world-class theater and musical venues from Ashland to Jacksonville. Sample the region’s blue-veined cheese and pears — and be sure to ask for pairing recommendations at tasting rooms or wine shops. For a serene oasis, the Umpqua Valley’s patchwork of ancient forests and pristine streams offers nature lovers and wine enthusiasts a chance to find their bliss. While there, visit the oldest continually operating post-prohibition estate winery in Oregon, and book a fly-fishing excursion on the North Umpqua River. Enjoy waterfalls on the route to Crater Lake National Park, which features the crystal-blue waters of the deepest lake in the United States. Wine Regions As you chart your path to explore Oregon’s diverse wine regions, get set for a world of natural wonders and showstopping beauty. Each region has its own character, landscape and vibe. COURTESY OF MOMENTUM RIVER EXPEDITIONS Stair Creek Falls
Willamette Valley With miles of rich, fertile agricultural land, the Willamette Valley is home to many of Oregon’s renowned wineries and exceptional farm-totable restaurants. Take a scenic bike ride through the countryside, stopping at historic covered bridges around the South and Central Willamette Valley. In Eugene catch an event at the iconic track stadium or visit one of the city’s engaging museums. Nearby Corvallis offers a vibrant downtown and riverside trails, gardens and cultural events. In the North Willamette Valley, you’ll find the highest concentration of tasting rooms in the state, including several in the charming and walkable towns of Newberg and McMinnville. Here you’ll find vineyard hikes, immersive wine tastings and world-class dining. Choose a wellness retreat, a balloon ride high over the valley or a tree-climbing lesson at a nearby state park. A leisurely drive along winding back roads through vine-covered hills is always a good idea. Portland Portland’s energy, creativity and resilience is becoming stronger than ever and on full display. Its dynamic restaurant scene offers a mix of fine dining in casual spaces and food carts led by award-winning chefs. Savor Oregon wines perfectly matched to farm-to-table fare, or sip flights at the city’s urban wineries after a day of enjoying museums and galleries. You’ll also want to take advantage of tax-free shopping downtown. Spend the day hiking tree-lined trails in urban green spaces or book a city tour with a local guide. There’s never been a better time to experience this bold, creative and welcoming city. ROAD TRIPS For weekend trips from wine country, enjoy sunny skies and sagebrush plains with a side trip to Central Oregon. Bend may be famous for its world-class outdoor adventures, but this high-desert hub includes a surprising number of tasting rooms pouring wines from Oregon’s acclaimed AVAs. The neighboring communities of Sisters and Redmond feature intimate dining with great wine lists. Of course, adventure abounds — pristine rivers, alpine lakes and the slopes of Mt. Bachelor make this region a year-round playground for kayaking, fly-fishing, skiing and more. For more sensational landscapes where wilderness rules, the Snake River Valley blends deep canyons with high desert. The rich red wines produced in this region are perfect with steaks and burgers served at local restaurants. For ocean breezes, take a jaunt to the Oregon Coast, a 363-mile stretch of wildly beautiful coastline. Spend your day exploring colorful tide pools and historic lighthouses. Then head to one of the many seafood restaurants found in small fishing towns and artsy enclaves. Purchase a bottle for your picnic at bottle shops and wine bars along the route. McMinnville CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: RICHARD HALLMAN; EMILY STOCKS; SHAWN LINEHAN L’Orange in Portland Hood River Fruit Loop OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 25
Fabulous 4 – Top PNW Wineries of 2025 – Washington State Wine Awards Milton-Freewater, OR • Wenatchee, WA WATERMILLWINERY.COM Two Gold Medals – Decanter World Wine Awards 26 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE Open Daily @11am Reservations Preferred Walk-Ins Welcome
AUBRIE LEGAULT Grateful Vineyard Columbia Gorge & Columbia Valley Where inspiration runs steep. The Gorge wine region is a powerful place. It’s a place of extremes — extremes in climate, scenery and style of wine — where the beauty of the landscape is inextricable from its allure as a world-class wine region. It’s a modern frontier of sorts, experiencing growth but holding fast to the heart of what makes it special. The extreme conditions that shape the wine are unique to this region — to be embraced, cultivated and celebrated. OREGON WINETOURING GUIDE 27
Sip In downtown Hood River, stroll between tasting rooms including Stoltz Winery and Cerulean Wine, or pop into Porron Cellars to taste wines from around Oregon and the world. Named after the valley’s famously strong winds, Viento Wines just west of town specializes in Riesling, Pinot noir and sparkling wines. A short drive east, Mosier is home to another cluster of wineries. Savor Spanish-inspired wines and local snacks on a lavender-lined terrace at the biodynamic Analemma Wines. Grapes are just one of more than 100 varieties of fruiting plants at Idiot’s Grace, where making terroir-driven wines is also about cultivating biodiversity. Garnier Vineyards, located nearby on a historic estate built by a wealthy New Yorker a century ago, is distinguished by its Colonial Revival home. Delightful Double Strand Wine pays homage to the region’s deep history of orchard fruits by growing cherries as well as grapes. Rather have somebody else do the planning and driving? Hood River Tours picks up in Hood River or The Dalles for half-day winery tours, no wheels required. Eat At the west end of the Gorge, Sugarpine Drive-In serves a seasonally shifting menu of playful sandwiches and ornate soft-serve confections. Thunder Island Brewing Co. in Cascade Locks makes refreshing ales to enjoy alongside Asian-fusion cuisine. In Hood River, get aebleskiver pancakes and aquavit brunch cocktails at Scandi hot spot Broder Øst. At Solstice Wood Fire Pizza, Cafe & Bar, you’ll find sourdough pizzas and more. The smoked brisket at Grasslands Barbecue food cart is worth getting in line for — it’s just across the lawn from Hood River’s popular Ferment Brewing Co. Or head downtown for eco-friendly fine dining at Celilo, where sourcing locally is a way of life, or fish tacos at cozy Lake Taco, which resides in a converted old house with a cozy patio out back. CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: AUBRIE LEGAULT (2); COURTESY OF VISIT HOOD RIVER On the Hood River Fruit Loop tour, you’ll find fruit stands and U-picks of berries and orchard fruit, along with baked goods at Apple Valley Country Store and Packer Orchards & Bakery. Crispy-cheese lovers should head to Freebridge Brewing in The Dalles for Detroitstyle pizza and German-style lagers. Play The century-old Historic Columbia River Highway was the first planned scenic roadway in the country. It’s still a twisty delight to drive with views galore, and some sections have been set aside for car-free travel. Cruise those segments on a bike or electric bike on a tour with Bike the Gorge, or join an e-bike wine tour with Sol Rides. You can also pedal custom two-person railbikes past orchards and vineyards with Mount Hood Railroad. Curious to try kiteboarding? Rent gear or take a lesson at Kite the Gorge or Cascade Kiteboarding. To take in the river at a slower pace, Heart of the Gorge Sailing and Gorge Sail Ventures offer seasonal WINE TRAILS Columbia River Gorge Fruit Loop This 35-mile scenic drive through the valley’s orchards, forests, farmlands and friendly communities in the hills south of Hood River is a year-round delight. Spring brings vast vistas of billowing blossoms, followed by the sweet flavors of summer fruits and fall harvest. Wineries on the loop are open year-round, many serving up stunning views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding landscape alongside every pour. At Mt. Hood Winery, get incredible views of the mountain that inspired its name while trying Pinot noir, Chardonnay and pear wine. Stave and Stone Wine Estates offers guided walking tours, complete with paired tastings of wine and food. Pair your Pinot noir with a wood-fired pizza and a pour of local whiskey at Hood Crest Winery and Distillers. hoodriverfruitloop.com sailboat tours on the mighty Columbia River. If you’d rather keep your feet dry, hit one of the many hiking trails on the Oregon side of the Gorge, like Eagle Creek Trail, which offers amazing views from the first mile. At Bonneville Lock & Dam, you can watch salmon and lamprey swim their way up the fish ladder via an underwater viewing window. The whimsical National Neon Sign Museum in The Dalles displays vintage signage in a stately old building downtown. Stay The elegant Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa, built in 1921, makes a stylish Hood River home base, complete with the opportunity to get a Himalayan hot salt stone massage or other treatment at the on-site spa. Stays at the luxury Sakura Ridge Farm & Lodge, about 8 miles southeast of Hood River, include luxury Italian linens and seasonal breakfasts often featuring produce grown on-site. The Celilo Inn, a boutique motor lodge, overlooks The Dalles and the Columbia River. Cathedral Ridge Winery Broder Øst Multnomah Falls Keep exploring at gorgewine.com 28 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE
Inquire to confirm hours and availability 1 15 Mile Winery 623 E. Second St., The Dalles 15milewinery.com (541) 965-1445 • B2 2 Analemma Wines 1120 State Road, Mosier analemmawines.com (541) 478-2873 • A1 3 Cathedral Ridge Winery - Hood River 4200 Post Canyon Drive, Hood River cathedralridgewinery.com (541) 386-2882 ✈ • A1 4 Cerebella Winery 30 SW Emigrant Ave., Pendleton cerebellawines.com (541) 612-4440 • A3 Columbia Gorge 5 COR Cellars 151 Old Highway 8, Lyle, WA corcellars.com (509) 365-2744 • A2 6 Double Strand Wine 953 Quartz Drive, Mosier doublestrand.wine • A1 7 Garnier Vineyards 8467 Highway 30 W., Mosier garniervineyards.com (541) 478-2217 • A1 8 Grateful Vineyard 6670 Trout Creek Ridge Road, Mt. Hood gratefulvineyards.com (541) 399-6665 • B1 9 Hood Crest Winery & Distillers 1900 Orchard Road, Hood River hoodcrestwinery.com (541) 716-0140 ✈ • A1 10 Idiot’s Grace Wines 8450 Highway 30, Mosier idiotsgrace.com (541) 399-5259 ✈ • A1 11 Marchesi Vineyards 3955 Belmont Drive, Hood River marchesivineyards.com (541) 386-1800 ✈ • A1 12 Maryhill Winery 9774 Highway 14, Goldendale, WA maryhillwinery.com (509) 773-1976 • A3 13 Mt. Hood Winery 2882 Van Horn Drive, Hood River mthoodwinery.com (541) 386-8333 ✈ • B1 14 Phelps Creek Vineyards 301 Country Club Road, Hood River phelpscreekvineyards.com (541) 386-2607 ✈ • A1 15 Stave and Stone Winery at the Vineyard 3827 Fletcher Drive, Hood River staveandstone.com (541) 946-3750 ✈ 16 Sunshine Mill & Quenett Winery 901 E. Second St., The Dalles sunshinemill.com (541) 978-9588 • B2 17 Tierra de Lobos 201 Osprey Lane W., The Dalles tierradelobos.com (541) 769-0277 • B2 18 White Salmon Vineyard 63281 WA-14, Underwood, WA whitesalmonvineyard.com (509) 493-4640 • A1 19 Wy’East Vineyards 3189 OR-35, Hood River wyeastvineyards.com (541) 386-1277 ✈ • B1 Hood River (Detail) 20 Cascade Cliffs Hood River Tasting Room 211 Oak St., Hood River cascadecliffs.com (541) 436-4215 21 Evoke Winery - Hood River Tasting Room 708 Oak St., Hood River evokewinery.com (541) 386-3700 ✈ 22 The Pines 1852 415 Oak St., Hood River thepinesvineyard.com (541) 993-8301 ✈ 23 Stoltz Winery 514 State St., Hood River stoltzwinery.com (541) 716-1330 ✈ Echo Area 24 Echo Ridge Cellars 551 N. Thielsen St., Echo echoridgecellars.com (541) 376-8100 25 Sno Road Winery 111 W. Main St., Echo snoroadwinery.com (541) 376-0421 84 84 14 14 14 141 142 35 281 197 30 30 218 WASHINGTON OREGON THE DALLES WHITE SALMON 90 MILES TO ECHO COLUMBIA RIVER MARYHILL COLUMBIA VALLEY AVA COLUMBIA GORGE AVA 5mi 3 1 14 13 19 11 9 18 5 7 2 17 16 10 12 SEE HOOD RIVER DETAIL 15 100 MILES (OFF MAP) 4 6 8 3 MILES (OFF MAP) 84 HOOD RIVER DETAIL COLUMBIA ST 2ND ST 4TH ST 6TH ST OAK ST STATE ST CASCADE AVE RAILROAD ST SHERMAN AVE 22 23 21 20 84 395 ECHO AREA ECHO ECHO RD OREGON TRAIL RD THIELSEN ST 1/2mi 25 24 90 MILES TO MARYHILL 1 2 3 A B ✈ Oregon Wine Flies Free participating winery ● Off-map winery OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 29
In Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory, wine tasting isn’t rushed. It’s thoughtful, rooted in the land and often paired with a conversation with the very person who made your glass possible. At these wineries you can chat with the winemakers and hear firsthand how their passion became their career. Nestled in the north end of the Willamette Valley, this part of Oregon is dotted with on-farm wineries where tasting rooms are surrounded by grapevines, rustic barns and views of Mt. Hood — not crowds from tour buses. Enjoy the peacefulness of the fields and have the chance to see where the grapes are grown and harvested. Here, you don’t just taste wine, you experience the place it came from. Slower Paced Cellar Season While summer and fall are popular times to visit wine country, Cellar Season (January through March) RELAX AND SIP ON-FARM WINERIES OFFER A LAID-BACK ESCAPE Tumwater Vineyard offers a different kind of magic. With fewer visitors, winemakers have more time to chat, tasting room hosts are unhurried and the cozy ambiance — often accompanied by a fireplace or candlelight — makes every glass feel extra special. During Cellar Season the focus shifts to the craft behind the wine. You can often meet the winemaker, hear about the impacts of the most recent seasons on their grapes and sip new releases in a relaxed, personal setting. It’s a behind-the-scenes vibe without the velvet rope. Overnight In Style What’s a day in wine country without a dreamy place to spend the night? Thankfully, the Willamette Valley region of Mt. Hood Territory has some standout lodging options that extend the farm-focused experience. The Whiskey Hill Store and Mountainview Suite in Hubbard is a renovated 1920s schoolhouse that’s now a boutique rental and SPONSORED CONTENT Pete’s Mountain Vineyard
omht.us/sip SCAN TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY! community hub. Vintage touches, a curated market and local events add to its charm. Our Sweet Retreat in Wilsonville is a lovingly restored farmhouse surrounded by blooming hydrangeas, fruit trees and even a Shasta trailer dubbed “Miss Lazy Daisy Lou.” It sleeps up to 12 and features a fire pit, smoker and cozy gathering spaces. Both spots blend comfort with local character — and put you close to tasting rooms and farm shops for the next day’s adventure. If more traditional hotels are your thing, don’t worry — we have plenty of those too. Try the Hilton Garden Inn located in the heart of Wilsonville and featuring a great farm-to-table restaurant onsite in the Parkway Grille. Farm-To-Fork Experiences Because so many wineries in Mt. Hood Territory are literally on the farm, it’s no surprise that the agricultural connection of this area goes beyond the wineries. There are plenty of farms that incorporate other crops or livestock into the products they produce. These are just a few of the stops that pair perfectly with a day of wine tasting. Fir Point Farms in Aurora makes sandwiches with house-baked bread and sells local jams, honey and produce. Grab lunch, a pastry to go or visit the resident treeclimbing goats between tastings. Triskelee Farm, just outside of Canby, raises ostrich and lamb and serves it up at their on-site market. After a farm tour, don’t miss the ostrich sliders — lean, flavorful and unlike anything else in Oregon wine country. Also, near Canby, TMK Creamery is home to a number of Holstein cows — and finds a variety of inventive ways to celebrate its adorable residents (dubbed “Cowlebrities”). An on-site market and food cart dish up snacks and light bites that spotlight numerous farm-raised ingredients. Visitors 21 and older can wash it down with cocktails made from TMK’s own vodka — produced with leftover whey from the creamery’s cheesemaking process. Together, these spots round out a day of exploring with filling fare that’s thoughtfully prepared, just like the wines nearby. Sip, Stay And Slow Down Whether you’re planning a cozy winter getaway during Cellar Season or a sun-soaked weekend with friends, Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory offers a wine country experience grounded in authenticity. From meeting the winemakers to savoring farmraised meals and relaxing in unique overnight stays, this slice of the north Willamette Valley invites you to slow down, sip deeply and enjoy the view of Mt. Hood. Our Sweet Retreat TMK Creamery
32 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE Find your center The wine is for drinking. The scenery is for drinking in. Start planning at visitcentraloregon.com. Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 07216TT0725 CASINO • HOTEL • GOLF • RV • DINING • FUNPLEX 800.654.9453 • Pendleton, OR I-84 Exit 216 • wildhorseresort.com F EVERY SIP WINS Savor an exceptional dining experience thoughtfully crafted to pair with your favorite wines—then explore even more ways to indulge with over 1,100 Vegas-style slots, table games, scenic golf, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun.
1 Bend Wine Bar and Winery Tasting Room 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend bendwinebar.com ✈ 2 Bledsoe Family Winery - Bend 550 SW Industrial Way, Ste. 198, Bend bledsoefamilywinery.com (541) 797-6502 3 Elixir Wine Co./Ermisch Cellars 11 NW Lava Road, Bend elixirwinegroup.com (541) 388-5330 ✈ 4 Evoke Winery Bend – Old Mill Tasting Room 330 SW Powerhouse Drive, #110, Bend evokewinery.com (541) 386-3700 ✈ 5 Faith Hope and Charity Vineyards 70450 NW Lower Valley Drive, Terrebonne faithhopeandcharityevents.com (541) 526-5075 ✈ 6 Maragas Winery 15523 SW Highway 97, Culver maragaswinery.com (541) 546-5464 ✈ 7 Stoller Wine Bar | Bend 555 NW Arizona Ave., #30, Bend stollerwinegroup.com/stoller-wine-bar-bend (503) 864-3404 ✈ 8 Willamette Valley Vineyards in Bend 916 NW Wall St., Bend wvv.com/visit-us/bend (541) 306-6000 ✈ ✈ Oregon Wine Flies Free participating winery TERREBONNE REDMOND BEND 5mi 6 5 4 23 7 2 1 8 While Central Oregon is best known for its ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and its ever-expanding brewery scene, this high-desert region provides plenty for oenophiles, from quiet country wineries to chic urban wine bars. Quick Trip Central Oregon Sip Central Oregon is world-famous for its craft-brewing scene, but there’s plenty here for wine lovers, too. Downtown you can find tasting rooms for excellent wineries west of the Cascades, such as Willamette Valley Vineyards, Stoller and Amaterra. In a cozy spot with an outdoor patio, Good Drop Wine Shoppe serves Oregon and global glass pours accompanied by nibbles from next door Bos Taurus steakhouse. Nearby FERM & fare wine bar and bottle shop specializes in eclectic wine and vermouth, with classes taught by its sommelier/chef owner. South of downtown, uncork the flavors of the Yamhill-Carlton AVA at the Laurel Ridge Tasting Room, or savor full-bodied reds from Eastern Oregon at Va Piano Vineyards Tasting Room or Bledsoe Family Winery Tasting Room. It’s worth making the trek up to Maragas Winery in Culver, where local winemaker Doug Maragas crafts wines using techniques that were passed down to him from his Greek winemaking ancestors. Or head over to Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards in Terrebonne to enjoy a tasting while you take in views of the Three Sisters mountains that gave the winery its name. Eat Bend is packed with great dining options, from casual to special occasion. Start your day right with Benedicts and French toast at McKay Cottage Restaurant, located in a historic Craftsman bungalow. For lunch swing by The Podski for food-cart fare in a pod with global options and a full bar. BOSA Food & Drink serves regional French and Italian fare with a focus on handmade pasta, and new Yoli offers a contemporary twist on Korean cuisine. If a hearty steak sounds more your speed, head TYLER ROEMER Mt. Bachelor for Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge, a cowboy-chic steakhouse with a big patio, live music on Fridays and perfect wines for red meat. Play In Central Oregon, outdoor adventures beckon in every season. Head to Prineville Reservoir State Park for camping, swimming and incredible stargazing that earned it certification as an International Dark Sky Park — be sure to ask about evening ranger-led starry-sky programs. Or make your way to Mt. Bachelor in the winter for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state. For natural and cultural history of the region, spend an afternoon at Bend’s High Desert Museum, or learn about the traditions of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs at the beautifully curated Museum at Warm Springs. Stay Bend offers the bulk of Central Oregon’s accommodation options, from the quirky McMenamins Old St. Francis School hotel — a historic school converted into a sprawling hotel complete with an on-site brewery, a movie theater and a soaking pool — to luxurious Tetherow, with its 18-hole golf course and cabana-flanked pool. Outside Bend, SCP Redmond Hotel offers airy, contemporary rooms in Redmond, just a short drive from the trails and rock-climbing fun at landmark Smith Rock. If you’d rather stay away from the city lights, consider an overnight at Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort near Madras, owned by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, where you can soak in thermal pools, play pickleball and sleep in a tepee. OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 33
MICHAEL HOWARD The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA Walla Walla Valley & the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater Where obsessions take root. Hemmed in by the Blue Mountains to the southeast, the Palouse to the north and the Columbia River westward, the Walla Walla Valley AVA straddles Southeast Washington and Northeast Oregon. The modern-day wine industry began in the 1970s. Today there are more than 100 wineries working in this warm and distinct climate. 34 OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE
Sip On the Oregon side, Los Rocosos Vineyards pours award-winning wines in a laid-back, dog-friendly space where the tasting is often led by the winemaker. Spain inspires the winemakers at Castillo de Feliciana Vineyard & Winery, from the Tempranillo and Albariño grown in the vineyard to the Europeanstyle decor in the tasting room. Try elegant red wines, balanced whites and the occasional dessert wine at Zerba Cellars. Make a reservation for a guided tasting at Rotie Cellars, which specializes in Syrah and Syrah blends inspired by France’s Rhône Valley. You can see the state line from Saviah Cellars’ covered patio — a great place to sample the earthy, savory reds for which this region is known. Book a seated tasting at Force Majeure, where you can taste the same variety grown at different estate vineyards. At the intimate, modern Grosgrain tasting room on one of its vineyards, you can sample Syrah, Carignan and Grenache by a cozy fire. If your travels keep you on the west side of the Cascades, visit Violet Vines in the Willamette Valley town of Carlton to taste wines made from The Rocks District grapes. Eat In the heart of downtown Walla Walla, flavors pop at Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen, where you can pair a pistachio-carrot salad with a cocktail made with saffron-infused gin. Salted Mill serves inventive takes on American classics — think pork chops with cipollini onions or braised lamb with beans and leeks — alongside an immense list of local wines. For classic diner vibes, head for Clarette’s Restaurant for omelets, French dip sandwiches, and a bounty of pancakes and waffles. In Milton-Freewater, tuck into fajitas, enchiladas and chile rellenos beneath colorful murals at La Ramada Family Mexican Restaurant. Hearty breakfasts at Wee Bit O’Heather are a tradition; there you’ll find classics like thick French toast, omelets and chicken- fried steak. For something sweet, check out chocolatier Petits Noirs, where you’ll find everything from nougat and hot cocoa to chocolates designed specifically to be paired with wine. Play Want to get some steps in between tastings? Head to Whitman College for its outdoor sculpture walk, which features 21 sculptures spread across its lush grounds, including many made by alumni. Or head out of town to over 715 miles of hiking and biking trails for every skill level in the nearby Umatilla National Forest. You can even rent bikes at Bicycle Barn, including tandem and e-bikes, to take a spin in the countryside. If you like history, you’re in the right place. You can learn more about what life was like in this rural part of the Northwest with a trip to the Frazier Farmstead Museum in Milton-Freewater, which preserves the history of the area in a beautifully maintained 1892 farmhouse. Or take a tour of the Kirkman House Museum, a stately Victorian Italianate home completed in 1880, providing a glimpse of domestic life in Walla Walla’s olden days. Stay The historic Marcus Whitman Hotel is the best-known place to stay, featuring classically furnished rooms in Walla Walla’s tallest building. If BEN LINDBLOOM The Walls WINE TRAILS Downtown Walla Walla There’s so much to see and do in this world-class wine destination, but don’t be overwhelmed. Start with a visit to The Walls in downtown Walla Walla. Its tasting room might be north of Oregon’s border, but with two vineyards in Oregon, this is a great place to taste Bordeaux- and Rhone-style wines that exemplify what makes fruit from the Rocks District so unique. Television buffs will love Pursued by Bear, the stylish tasting room owned by “Twin Peaks” star — and Northwest local — Kyle MacLachlan. Then stroll Main Street, where you’ll find close to a dozen boutique tasting rooms. Ask the winemakers for recommendations for your next visit, or pop into The Thief, a bottle shop specializing in Northwest wines, to stock up on souvenirs. Keep exploring at rocksdistrict.com your tastes run more contemporary, head over to The FINCH to find bright, modern rooms in a refurbished motor hotel. For a romantic weekend, book a suite at The Wesley, a historic Victorian home converted into 12 suites with expansive outdoor spaces featuring multiple soaking tubs, gas grills and fire pits. Want to stay close to the vines? Several wineries have on-vineyard homes for rent, including the Walls’ Petros Vineyard House and Grosgrain’s Casa Grosgrain. Most have several bedrooms, making them an appealing option for groups. Or book a room at The Inn at Abeja, offering a collection of individually decorated suites and cottages on a working winery with acclaimed prix-fixe dining. OREGON WINE TOURING GUIDE 35
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