While the wine harvest is underway here in the Willamette Valley, a number of wineries offer socially distant outdoor tastings to enjoy this autumn, offering a perfect escape for the beautiful weather in the forecast for early October. Just remember to dress for the weather, and make a reservation, as most of these exceptional experiences require an appointment.
Adelsheim Vineyards, a pioneering winery in Newberg, has thoughtfully redesigned their outdoor seating and launched Adelsheim Wine Cabanas. These cabanas allow for a private wine tasting experience outdoors, just steps from where their award-winning wine is made. Guests can choose from the Adelsheim Tasting ($35) or Library Tasting ($55), and add on a Market Box of delicious local treats to accompany their flights.
Outside Eminent Domaine’s modern tasting room are a number of picnic tables overlooking their vineyard. The winery also invites guests to “BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket)” on sunny days. Guests can enjoy their Classic Wine Tasting with five current releases for $20 per person. More information can be found here, where you can also make a reservation.
During harvest at Colene Clemens, the tasting patio becomes a crush pad, but the winery continues to invite visitors, who can get a peek of the harvest action. Tastings are $20 per person and take place under an open-air tent. Charcuterie boxes and a selection of nuts and snacks are available for purchase. Harvest activities are ever-changing and Colene Clemens’ hospitality staff find creative ways each day to share what’s happening behind the scenes.
Claygate Vineyard boasts an expansive outdoor patio with sweeping views of the golden Willamette Valley every fall. This family and dog-friendly winery focuses on Pinot Noir and rosé, and is open Friday through Sunday, by reservation. Tastings Monday through Thursday are available by appointment.
Parrett Mountain Cellars specializes in bold reds, like Tempranillo, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah, as well as Pinot Noir. Perched on Parrett Mountain and surrounded by trees, the winery’s outdoor patio and lawn offer a perfect backdrop for wine flights, small plates and charcuterie boards. This bike-friendly tasting room also features local beer on tap. No reservations are needed at Parrett Mountain Cellars, which is open Thursday through Sunday. Tastings are $15 per person.
In downtown Newberg, both Chehalem winery and Anam Cara Cellars feature outdoor patios for seated tastings, with the option of delectable cheese and charcuterie plates to enjoy alongside flights of wine. Downtown Newberg boasts seven winery tasting rooms, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy a shopping stroll post-wine tasting.