Tucked into the rolling hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley you’ll find small, boutique wineries with big, stunning views. In a region known for its world-class Pinot Noir, these five boutique wineries offer intimate, unforgettable tasting experiences with views worth the drive up their (gravel) hillside driveways. You’ll find more than just great wine; there’s stunning views, a chance to meet the passionate people behind the bottle, and an intimate glimpse into the craft of winemaking. Be sure to book an appointment with them for your tasting, or have us arrange it through our Winery Itinerary Service when you stay with us. Whether you’re a seasoned wine traveler or just beginning your journey, our guide will help you savor the soul of the Willamette Valley, one glass – and vista – at a time.
Compris Vineyard – This small winery atop Hillside Drive has a beautiful view looking out over the vineyards and rolling Dundee Hills beyond. Dru and Erin purchased this established vineyard in 2020, switching careers to follow their passion for winemaking. In addition to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the vineyard has blocks of Tempranillo and Syrah and a smattering of Viognier. Recently, they’ve added Cabernet Franc and Gamay to the plantings and we are excitedly anticipating the wines from these blocks. Tastings are available in the Tasting Room, the Covered Patio, or, to really enjoy the expansive view of their 12.5 acres of vineyards, snatch a tasting reservation on the Terrace.
Pro-tip: The crew at Compris also puts together a nice cheese and charcuterie board, so plan for them to be your 1pm tasting for a light lunch.
Winter’s Hill Winery – Before wine country was wine country, and the before the hill on Breyman Orchards Road hosted some very large, very famous wineries, winemaker Russel’s grandparents settled on this hilltop where his parents would later plant Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris. Producing wines solely from their estate vineyard, Winter’s Hill focuses on small lots so guests can taste individual clones or try the estate blends (including Hans & Lena… a tasty dessert wine!). The beautiful view from this small winery is to the southwest towards the Coast Range.
Pro-tip: check out the Oak Savannah and Emily’s garden of bird-friendly habitat which is a certified Willamette Valley Birding Trail.
Anderson Family Wines – Setting their vineyard to wrap 270 degrees around the hill side, Cliff and Allison planted their hilltop vineyard in 1992. The 20 acres focuses on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, some sold to other wineries, and some kept for their own label. The resulting wines showcase the terroir of the Jory basalt soil and highlight the conditions of each vintage year. The private tastings, led by winemakers, are always a vertical tasting of consecutive years. Guests can get a deeper understanding of what effect a cool spring or wet fall might have on the final wine.
Eminent Domaine – With a legal story behind their name, these 5.5 acres of vineyards are a labor of love for Jeff and his family, with another nearby 9 acres added recently. They grow Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay Noir on their vineyards, located on the tiny Ribbon Ridge AVA with a beautiful view over their vines and into a forested hillside. They also source from other vineyards in the valley to complement their harvest.
Pro-tip: we like to visit in the mornings in the summer to enjoy the view without too much direct sun. Enjoy the covered tasting areas when the sun is blazing.
Bells Up Winery – Our friends Dave & Sara started out as our guests in 2008 when they were exploring their wine country relocation options. Fortunately, we made a good impression, and they moved just down the road to set up their micro-boutique winery with a beautiful view of the valley beyond their estate vines. Winemaker Dave works hard to produce small-lot Pinot Noirs and whites like Pinot Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc. Recently, they’ve planted some more unique grape varietals, so be on the lookout for their Seyval Blanc and Schioppetino, an Italian grape. Tastings at Bells up are private tastings with Dave, who loves to share his vast knowledge and winemaking philosophy.
Come visit the Willamette Valley to experience these wineries where you can stand on a hilltop, drink in a breathtaking view, and taste a wine that truly reflects this specific corner of the world. Of course, staying at Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast gives you the opportunity to enjoy valley views before and after wine tasting. Perched on a hill at 1000ft elevation, our mountain retreat is a peaceful home base for your adventures. Four of our five rooms have private decks with expansive valley views and our living room has a public deck for all to enjoy. We serve our gourmet breakfasts on the deck as often as we can… nearly every day in the summer months.
