Unmissable Food And Wine Stops In The Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley in Oregon is a paradise for food and wine enthusiasts, offering world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, stunning vineyard landscapes, farm-to-table cuisine, and cozy independent accommodation. What's not to like? Here's a short guide revealing some of the best places to eat, drink, and stay while exploring this very cool wine region.
Known for producing some of the country's most important cool climate wines, it stretches from the outskirts of Portland to the southern edge of Eugene, with a range of elevations and microclimates influencing its various sub appellations. The area is home to an increasing number of wineries, that, despite their growing fame, preserve the collaborative spirit of the region's early winemaking pioneers. There is a strong connection to the land here, and a reverence for the people and work that has come before.
Many producers open their doors to share not just what they make, but how and why they make it. Restaurants work closely with nearby farms and vineyards, while small hotels offer space to slow down and explore the landscape.
Bergstrom is home to one of the best Chardonnays in the United States.
Founded by the Bergström family, the winery has championed biodynamic farming and terroir-driven winemaking since its inception. The portfolio of excellent wines, including single vineyard Pinot Noirs, is exemplified in Sigrid, their flagship Chardonnay, widely regarded as one of the finest in America. Named after the family matriarch, Sigrid showcases the elegance and complexity achievable in Willamette Valley Chardonnay, with vibrant acidity, a layered, creamy texture, and remarkable age-worthiness. The welcoming tasting room is set amidst the rolling hills of the valley.
Penner-Ash Wine Cellars from above.
Penner-Ash Wine Cellars focuses on Pinot Noir from Oregon's northern Willamette Valley, crafting wines that reflect the distinct character of the region's seven major AVAs. Their portfolio draws on fruit from some of the valley's most acclaimed and storied vineyards. The company are now moving quite a bit of volume now. The business has gone from strength to strength over the last few years and is now one of the larger producers in the region. Winemaker Kate Ayres is doing a fantastic job of producing wines with character at attractive price points.
The outdoor hangout at Adelsheim Vineyards in Newburg.
Adelsheim Vineyards is a pioneering estate in Oregon's Willamette Valley, founded in 1971 by David and Ginny Adelsheim. As one of the region's original wineries, it played a crucial role in establishing Chehalem Mountains as a premier site for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Known for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and precise, terroir-driven wines, Adelsheim crafts elegant, balanced expressions that reflect the valley's diverse soils and cool climate. The winery remains a leader in innovation and advocacy, instrumental in defining Oregon's AVAs and shaping the reputation of Willamette Valley wines on the global stage. Walk ins are welcome at this picturesque spot and visitors can try and number of different experiences, including a food and wine pairing session in the Chardonnay barrel cave.
Domaine Willamette offers one of the best winery dining experiences in the Willamette Valley.
Domaine Willamette, in the Dundee Hills, is the state's first winery devoted entirely to traditional method sparkling wines. Located at the biodynamically farmed Bernau Estate Vineyard, the winery reflects a deep commitment to sustainable practices on the land and low-intervention winemaking. Its design and gardens extend this ethos, creating a space where landscape, viticulture, and hospitality are closely connected. Visitors can choose from a range of immersive tasting experiences that incorporate wine and food prepared by chef Zach, along with opportunities to explore the property. Those interested in the technical side of the business would VIP Walking Tour, offering insight into both sparkling winemaking and biodynamic agriculture. Alternatively, the family friendly dining environment is a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy some of the best bubbles in the Pacific North West.
The Drouhin tasting room where you can also buy the company's Burgundy wines.
Drouhin Oregon represents one of the most successful bridges between Burgundy and the New World. Established in 1987 by Maison Joseph Drouhin, the estate was among the first to recognize the potential of the Willamette Valley for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Guided by Veronique Drouhin, the wines emphasize elegance, balance, and site expression, reflecting both Burgundian sensibilities and Oregon's unique terroir. The Dundee Hills estate remains a benchmark for refined, age-worthy Oregon Pinot Noir, while the Roserock vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills adds further dimension to their portfolio. Drouhin Oregon continues to set a high standard for Burgundian influence in American winemaking.
The Soter Ranch Estate in its glory. A great place to spend an afternoon with local Pinot Noir.
Soter Vineyards sits in the hills of Oregon's Yamhill Carlton AVA, where Tony and Michelle Soter have spent more than two decades shaping a property that prioritizes ecology as much as wine. Founded in 1997, the estate at Mineral Springs Ranch spans 240 acres and follows biodynamic farming practices certified by Demeter USA. The team manages the land with an emphasis on biodiversity, soil health, and long term resilience. Guests are welcomed into an experience that goes beyond the tasting room.
The Provisions Tasting pairs estate wines with thoughtful seasonal dishes, while the Vineyard Excursion includes a guided walk through the ranch followed by a chef prepared lunch among the vines. A laid back, casual vibe aligns with a seasonal, farm-to-table food experience. Dishes, as you might expect, are paired with their wines, showcasing the synergy between the region's terroir and its cuisine. The wines themselves are restrained and precise. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the property show freshness, fine structure, and clarity. The sparkling wines, made from traditional varieties, bring finesse without excess weight. Across the range, the style is confident and measured, shaped by a team that values transparency over intervention.
Humble Spirit, located in the heart of Carlton, is part of The Ground, a collective dedicated to fostering harmony between people, animals, and the planet. After establishing the Tabula Rasa Farms in 2015, The Ground follows the principles of regenerative agriculture, The Ground began with the founding of Tabula Rasa Farms in 2015. At Humble Spirit, this philosophy comes to life through a menu showcasing sustainably raised heritage meats, fresh produce, and local ingredients that celebrate the interconnectedness of nature. The restaurant offers a warm, community-focused dining experience, complemented by an evolving selection of wines from the region. Guests can explore more of The Ground's mission through stays at Tabula Rasa Farms or the newly launched bed & breakfast in McMinnville. Humble Spirit encapsulates the essence of the Willamette Valley—deliciously grounded in its surroundings while reaching for inspired, meaningful connections.
Hayward Restaurant, the casual dining spot in McMinnville winning so many admirers.
Hayward is a standout dining destination in the heart of McMinnville and is a cool, casual spot for hanging out after a busy day visiting wineries. Founded by chef Kari Shaughnessy in 2023, the restaurant has quickly earned an excellent reputation for its expressive, hyper-seasonal approach to 'New Northwest' cuisine. Moreover, it has achieved James Beard Award semifinalist recognition in both 2024 and 2025. Housed in the creative, communal space of Mac Market, Hayward menu frequently changes to reflect the valley's agricultural rhythm, with dishes like sesame focaccia with koji butter, carrot cavatelli, and shrimp bánh xèo layered with house-made sambal. At the core of Hayward's ethos is a deep commitment to local sourcing, fermentation, and flavor storytelling. Their 'Kickback' family-style tasting experience invites diners to trust the kitchen and enjoy a generous spread of seasonal plates. For wine lovers, Hayward is perfectly attuned to the surrounding wine country with a thoughtful, ever-evolving list spotlighting small Willamette Valley producers, alongside occasional international selections that echo the restaurant's balanced, expressive culinary style.
Inn The Ground is one of the best places to stay when visiting the Willamette Valley.
Inn The Ground offers a serene and immersive stay in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley, reflecting the ethos of The Ground collective. Located near Tabula Rasa Farms in Carlton, this intimate bed & breakfast invites guests to experience the region's natural beauty and regenerative spirit. Each thoughtfully designed room offers comfort and a connection to the surrounding landscape, with pastoral views and a sense of calm rooted in nature. It's a stunning place to sip your coffee and watch the sun come up, or indeed watch it go down with a glass of wine. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table breakfasts featuring ingredients sourced directly from Tabula Rasa Farms. Whether you're exploring local wineries or seeking a tranquil escape, Inn The Ground provides a restorative base that celebrates the harmony between people, animals, and the land.
The wine cellar at the Tributary hotel, full of great Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Tributary Hotel, located in the center of McMinnville, is a significant statement when it comes to wine tourism in the Willamette Valley. Set within a restored 1917 brick building, the hotel features just eight suites, each named after a regional river. Fireplaces, soaking tubs, and hand built furniture echo the textures and materials of the surrounding landscape. It's high end, without being stuffy, drawing on both the building's historic character and the hotel's deep connection to place.
Guests can also dine at Okta, the hotel's restaurant, where a seasonal tasting menu is built around ingredients from the hotel's own farm and neighbouring producers. Initially a fine dining concept, it briefly closed to reconsider its strategy, but is now back open with a more focussed four course tasting menu. The wine list is equally thoughtful, a fascinating collection that showcases some of Oregon's best wines.
Oregon's first Relais and Châteaux property, Tributary brings together architecture, food, and wine at a high level. You're only a short walk from McMinnville's coffee shops and beer bars, and with valet parking just outside, it's a great base for exploring wine country.
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