Top Pick! Bryn Mawr Vineyards
Bryn Mawr’s view is one of the most expansive in the valley, but it also serves as a fantastic Willamette Valley geography lesson. This tasting room is one of the few places where you can follow the abundant hills and valley floor all the way to the Van Duzer Corridor! Here’s how: from the tasting patio, view the valley to the right. In the distance you will see where there is a large gap between the two sides of the valley. This natural opening in the coastal range is what allows cool ocean breezes to flow in, and is an important factor in the region’s success with cool-climate grapes. Their cozy indoor fireplace setting is an excellent winter option, with fantastic views as well.
#2 – Bethel Heights Vineyard
A unique experience can be hiding within a wine tasting at Bethel Heights Vineyard. It is easy to unpack the terroir nuances that go into each bottle thanks to the uniquely situated tasting room, located above their entire swath of vines below. With each elegant glass that is poured, your wine guide can walk you through where every individual grape came from, as you gaze into the vineyards below. Subtle nuances in flavors can be deciphered as you realize that one plot may have higher winds, or more sunlight than another. The view in general is spectacular by itself – organized rows, and expansive skies always create a dramatic backdrop for a relaxing day of wine tasting.
#3 – Eola Hills Legacy Estate
The Legacy Estate is full of views, depending on your level of adventure. The easiest option is to sit at the tasting room, which overlooks vines with a pretty view of the countryside beyond. For those interested in a bit more adventure, there is a relatively easy vineyard hike that can be taken all the way to the top of their vineyards. From there you will have an awe-inspiring view of the quintessential Willamette Valley wine region – a sea of rolling vineyards, surrounded by evergreens, and countryside. The walk is relatively easy, but does have an uphill incline. You can pre-order a charcuterie board, or pack a picnic with items from home or Roth’s supermarket on your way up!
