Looking for the best wineries in the Willamette Valley, Oregon? You’ve come to the right place! As a local, I’ve explored many of the wineries here, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you.
Whether you’re into cozy, family-owned vineyards or larger, renowned estates, this beautiful region has something for everyone.
Imagine sipping a delicious Pinot Noir while soaking in breathtaking views of towering volcanoes. Sounds perfect, right?
If you’re ready to discover the best wineries in the Willamette Valley, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Trisaetum Winery: One of the Best Wineries in the Willamette Valley
If you’re starting your adventure in Willamette Valley, make sure to visit Trisaetum Winery, a charming family-owned spot just under an hour’s drive from Portland.
Nestled in the Ribbon Ridge area, Trisaetum offers a variety of wine tasting options starting at $40 per person. The best part? If you buy any $100 bottle of wine, the tasting fee is waived.
I recommend going for a mixed selection so you can try both white wines like Riesling and reds, including the famous Pinot Noir.
If the weather’s nice, grab your wine and relax on the outdoor terrace with stunning views of the vineyards and hills around you. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a glass of wine.
Before you leave, don’t forget to check out the winery’s art gallery, which showcases paintings and photographs from the owner’s personal collection. Definitely worth a stop!
Practical Info
The tasting room and art gallery at Trisaetum Winery are open daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Reservations for tastings are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome based on availability.
2. Penner-Ash Wine Cellars
Another must-visit spot in Willamette Valley is Penner-Ash Wine Cellars. This place has breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the iconic Mount Hood.
The tasting room is housed in a sleek, modern building that blends seamlessly with the landscape, giving you an incredible view of the vineyards. It’s the kind of place that makes you fall in love with wine country!
Penner-Ash specializes in Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Riesling wines. You can enjoy a 1-hour tasting for $45 or a 2-hour tasting for $90.
The best part? Tastings are held outdoors, where you can relax in comfy chairs and enjoy the view (they even provide special glass holders!).
It’s easy to see why this winery is so popular—who wouldn’t want to sip amazing wine while soaking in those incredible views?
Practical Info
Penner-Ash Wine Cellars is open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Reservations are required for tastings, but walk-ins are welcome and accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Bergström Winery: One of the Best Wineries in the Willamette Valley
Next up on the list of must-visit spots is the Bergström Winery, just around the corner from the last one.
This charming winery offers private, 75-minute tastings for $90 per person, where you’ll get to try amazing wines made from Chardonnay and, of course, the beloved Pinot Noir grapes.
Each tasting comes with the purchase of 3 featured bottles.
Like many other places in Willamette Valley, Bergström Winery has deep-rooted family traditions, and it’s still run by the same family whose origins trace all the way back to Sweden.
What really stood out to me during my visit was the iconic wooden barn adorned with the winery’s logo—it’s the perfect picture spot, especially with the green hills in the background.
It really feels like something straight out of a postcard. Definitely worth a visit, but make sure to book in advance!
Practical Info
Private tastings at Bergström Winery are by appointment only, available Thursday to Tuesday (closed on Wednesday), between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
4. Domaine Drouhin Winery
Another spot I highly recommend is Domaine Drouhin Winery, nestled in the picturesque hills of Dundee Hills.
This charming winery is run by a friendly family from Burgundy, France, and it instantly wins you over with its inviting vibe.
Tastings are held on the terrace, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with a snow-capped volcano in the distance.
They offer several tasting packages, starting at $40 for six glasses of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
All the wines come from family estates in both Oregon and Burgundy, and the tasting fee is waived if you purchase at least three bottles.
If you’re after great wine and a relaxing atmosphere, Domaine Drouhin is definitely worth a visit!
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Practical Info
The tasting room at Domaine Drouhin Winery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Just be sure to make a reservation for the tasting ahead of time!
5. Domaine Serene Winery
If you’re a wine lover, Domaine Serene Winery is definitely a place you shouldn’t miss.
It’s one of the most respected wineries in the U.S., known for its amazing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, plus a gorgeous tasting room and stunning views.
The tasting experience here is fantastic, with wide-open views of vineyards and valleys all around.
The 90-minute tasting of 6 great wines costs $60, and while it’s a bit more formal than some other places, it’s definitely worth it.
As soon as you walk in, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at a spot made for wine lovers.
It’s not just about tasting wine—it’s about enjoying the rich flavors and stunning views that come with the experience.
Practical Info
The tasting room at Domaine Serene Winery is open daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Just remember to make a reservation in advance for the tasting!
6. Youngberg Hill
Youngberg Hill is one of the most beautiful wineries I’ve visited in Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
It’s perched on a hill with amazing views, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some great wine.
Along with their top-notch Pinot Noir, they also offer other tasty wines like Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and some refreshing sparkling wines.
For just $30 per person, you can taste six different wines, which is a steal! And you don’t even need to book ahead, so it’s easy to stop by whenever you’re in the area.
If you really love the place, you can even stay overnight at their charming hotel on-site. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic weekend getaway!
Practical Info
The tasting room at Youngberg Hill is open every day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. No need for a reservation in advance!
7. White Rose Estate: A Hidden Gem Among Wineries in the Willamette Valley
Last but definitely not least, White Rose Estate is a hidden gem in the Willamette Valley that you won’t want to miss.
This beautiful vineyard not only serves up incredible, handcrafted wines but also offers breathtaking views of Mount Hood and the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re enjoying a sunny outdoor tasting or cozying up inside when it rains, you’ll have a great time at their elegant tasting tables.
The winery’s story goes back to 2000, when founder Greg Sanders turned a charming farmhouse on Dundee Hills into his dream winery, dedicated to crafting top-notch, artisanal wines.
Today, White Rose Estate is famous for its amazing Pinot Noir, crafted from the finest local grapes. For just $60, you can taste four incredible wines, and then enjoy a complimentary espresso or affogato of your choice!
Plus, the staff here is super friendly and professional, making the experience even better. Could it get any better?
Practical Info
The tasting room at White Rose Estate is open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that advance reservation for tastings is required.
How to Get to the Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley is just about an hour’s drive south of Portland.
The best way to get there is by renting a car at Portland Airport (PDX). From the airport, simply take Interstate 5 (I-5) south for about 45-60 minutes.
Along the way, you’ll pass through popular towns in the region, such as McMinnville, Dundee, Newberg, and Salem—perfect starting points for exploring the valley’s wineries.
Best Time to Visit the Willamette Valley
The best time to visit Willamette Valley is from April to September, when everything is in full bloom and the views are just breathtaking.
The vineyards look amazing, and the whole area is super picturesque.
That said, if you visit from late September to early November during harvest season, the vibe is a bit different, but it’s still a great time to be there.
Honestly, Willamette Valley has something special to offer no matter the time of year. So go ahead—pack your bags and get ready for an awesome adventure!
Where to Stay in the Willamette Valley
For your stay in Willamette Valley, consider McMinnville, Dundee, Newberg, or Salem—all close to top wineries, offering a range of accommodations from cozy inns to upscale hotels.
I especially recommend the charming town of McMinnville for its cute downtown, fantastic dining options, and nearby wine tasting rooms.
Here are my top picks for every budget:
- Budget: McMenamins Hotel Oregon – A historic, quirky hotel with a rooftop bar, perfect for a unique stay.
- Mid-Range: Douglas on Third – A boutique hotel with spacious rooms blending vintage and modern styles.
- Luxury: Atticus Hotel – An elegant, high-end boutique hotel offering a cozy and sophisticated experience.
Best Places to Eat in the Willamette Valley
La Rambla
A day in the Willamette Valley wouldn’t be complete without a great dinner at La Rambla, a cozy spot in McMinnville.
This restaurant mixes the best of Northwest freshness with delicious Spanish cuisine, and it’s definitely worth the visit. La Rambla has earned a reputation for its amazing wine list, too.
You can’t go wrong with their empanadas, filled with savory beef and Manchego cheese, or the mouth-watering seafood paella.
And if you want to take your meal to the next level, pair it with a glass of local Oregon Pinot Noir—it’s a perfect match.
For a place where the food, atmosphere, and wine all come together, La Rambla is the spot to be in the Willamette Valley.
Practical Info
La Rambla restaurant is open Monday to Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Fridays until 10:00 PM, Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance!
Humble Spirit
If Spanish food isn’t your thing, check out Humble Spirit in the historic center of McMinnville. This charming restaurant has a cozy, stylish vibe and offers fantastic service.
The menu is full of delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and you can pair your meal with some great local wines.
Vegetarians should try the roasted pumpkin pasta or vegetable ragout, while meat lovers will enjoy the pork-beef meatballs, roasted chicken, or trout.
And definitely save room for dessert – the baked pear in wine syrup or Italian ginger ice cream are amazing.
Humble Spirit is a perfect spot for a special dinner, with every detail thoughtfully done.
Practical Info
The Humble Spirit restaurant is open daily from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays, they also serve from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. No need for advance reservations!
Willamette Valley: Fun Facts
- Willamette Valley is Oregon’s largest wine region with nearly 600 vineyards.
- It’s world-renowned for exceptional Pinot Noir.
- Winemaking dates back to the 19th century, but it took off in the 1970s.
- The region has a mild, long growing season and Pacific marine influence.
- Willamette also grows Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and more.
- Most wineries are small, family-run businesses focused on quality.
- Willamette wines have won numerous global awards.
- Harvest season (September-November) is packed with cool events.
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7 Best Wineries in the Willamette Valley: Summary
The wineries in the Willamette Valley are a must-see for any wine lover.
This stunning region in Oregon is a true contender to California’s Napa Valley, and in some ways, it even outshines it.
If you’re craving a more relaxed, less crowded wine-tasting experience, this is the place to be.
The best wineries in the Willamette Valley offer exactly that—breathtaking landscapes, charming vineyards, and a peaceful, laid-back vibe.
Trust me, after visiting, you’ll fall head over heels for the Willamette Valley and leave with unforgettable memories from this amazing wine region!
If you enjoyed this guide, leave a comment below or share it with your friends! I’d love to hear about your favorite wineries in the Willamette Valley!
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What a gorgeous area! I feel like this would be a fabulous area to go hiking as well as tasting the wine. It’s just so pretty!
p.s. I love your dress too!
I’ve never thought about that area as a hiking destination but that seems to be a brilliant idea 🙂 I had to check some trails next time I would be in Oregon.
PS. Thank you so much! I love that dress so much 🙂
This looks like such a lovely place! As I´m curently pregnant I really miss a good glass of wine haha, definitely saving this for our next USA visit – I had no clue the countryside is so wonderful so close to Portland, thanks for sharing!
Portland is a great starting point for trips. You have Willamette Valley, ocean coast on west side, Columbia river and many hiking trails around and if you go south-east you can visit desert landscapes like painted hills. On top of that Portland is great town itself 😀
Coming from a country with a long tradition of viticulture I’m always up for some wine tasting! Willamette Valley looks exactly like a place for me 😀
Sounds like a perfect match 🙂
This looks like the perfect day. My niece lives in that area and I’m jealous of her access to such yummy Pinot.
Pinot is one of the reason why Oregon is such wonderful place to live 😉
Beautiful wineries! Visiting vineyards is one of my favorite things to do when traveling.
Wow! How stunning. I have never even heard of Williamette Valley. I just moved to Seattle so I will definitely have to make my way there at some point. I also love wine tasting so that’s a plus!
You will have a great time there 🙂 But Seattle is also wonderful location.