If you have spent any time in the Willamette Valley, you know the struggle. There are way too many beautiful wineries and not enough weekends in the year to visit them all.
I have spent plenty of time hopping between Newberg and Dundee, and I have learned that it’s almost too hard to choose which winery to book. Whether you are looking for a fancy afternoon or a low key glass of bubbles, here is my personal shortlist for the best spots to soak up those gorgeous Oregon views.
How to Get There & Get Around
Planning a trip to the Willamette Valley is easy, but because the region is spread out, a little planning goes a long way. Here is the lowdown on getting from Portland to Newberg and Dundee.
The Drive: Portland to Wine Country
Newberg and Dundee are the gateways to the Willamette Valley. Both are a relatively quick trip from Portland, making them perfect for a day excursion or a full weekend getaway.
- Distance & Time: Newberg is about 25 miles southwest of Portland (approx 50-60 minutes) via OR-99W. Dundee is just another 3–5 miles further down the same highway (approx 60 minutes total).
- The Route: You will primarily take OR-99W South.
- Pro Tip: Traffic can get heavy on summer weekends as people head toward the coast.
Getting Around: Why You Need a Car
While you can take an Uber or Lyft to get from Portland to the valley, ride-sharing services are unreliable once you are out among the vineyards.
- Designated Driver: If you plan on tasting at more than one or two spots, the best move is to hire a private driver or join a guided wine tour. They handle the navigation and keep you safe between estates.
- Rental Cars: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, a rental car is the most flexible option. Just ensure your group has a designated driver who sticks to small pours or water.
Know Before You Go
- Reservations are Essential: Gone are the days when you could just wander into any tasting room. Most high-end estates in the Dundee Hills now strongly prefer or require reservations on weekends to ensure they have staff ready for you. Always book at least 1–2 weeks in advance for popular spots.
Where to Sip: The View First Wineries
Chehalem Winery
If you want the wow factor without breaking the bank, this is your place. Their outdoor space is fantastic, but the real star is the view of Mt. Hood on a clear day. It feels accessible, friendly, and just plain fun. It is the perfect spot to start your day and get that quintessential I am in Oregon photo.
Alloro Vineyard
Honestly, walking into Alloro feels like being transported straight to Italy. With its Tuscan style farmhouse and rolling hills, it is arguably the most aesthetic vineyard in the area. They do incredible food pairings, and if you are into that rustic, old world vibe, you will not want to leave.
Domaine Willamette
Do you like bubbles? Because this is the sparkling wine division of Willamette Valley Vineyards, and they are doing it right. The outdoor space is stunning, and because they are part of the larger family, you can order practically any Willamette Valley wine you want. Plus, their food menu is genuinely amazing. This is not your standard cheese plate experience.
Avidity Wines
If you want to experience the true spirit of the Willamette Valley without the pretension, this intimate, family-owned spot is your go-to for approachable, high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It feels exactly like hanging out at a stylish friend’s house, making it the perfect low-key palate cleanser between larger estates. Check out their summer Friday evening events with live music, food trucks and fun times.
Winderlea Wine Company
If you are tired of the massive, crowded tasting rooms, head to Winderlea. It is intimate, cute, and feels like you have been invited to a private estate. It is the perfect slow down stop where you can actually chat with your server and learn about the wine.
Furioso Vineyards
Feeling fancy? Furioso is the definition of bougie. It is modern, sleek, and has been named one of the most beautiful wineries in the world for a reason. Go here when you want to treat yourself, grab a wood fired pizza, and feel like you are living your best life.
Even More Wineries to Explore
Still have room in your glass? The Newberg and Dundee area is packed with world class spots. Here are a few more must visit additions to round out your perfect itinerary.
The Iconic Views List
- Sokol Blosser Winery (Dundee Hills): This is architectural eye candy. The tasting room is a stunning, modern space with floor to ceiling windows looking out over the Dundee Hills. It feels elevated and chic, but the terrace and summer pizza oven make it feel approachable.
- Archery Summit (Dundee Hills): If you want commanding views, this is it. They have an open air terrace that offers one of the best vantage points in the valley. It feels very exclusive and is definitely the place to go if you want to impress guests.
- Adelsheim Vineyard (Newberg/Chehalem Mountains): One of the founding families of Oregon wine. Their tasting room is set right next to the vines, and they offer cool experiences like vineyard hikes. It is sophisticated but very unpretentious.
The Hidden Gems and Locals Favorites
- Argyle Winery (Dundee): You might have seen their bottles everywhere, but their Tasting House in downtown Dundee is fantastic. It is a great spot to stay walkable in town rather than driving up into the hills. Their sparkling wine flights are the best way to start or end a day.
- Natalie’s Estate Winery (Newberg): This is a family owned, intentionally small spot. It is a Montana style tasting room that feels super cozy. They do intimate barrel tastings and food pairings that make you feel like family rather than just another customer.
- Antica Terra (Dundee): If you want a sommelier secret experience, this is it. It is appointment only, very intimate, and produces some of the most respected wines in the region.
Where to Eat: Because You Need a Base
You cannot wine taste on an empty stomach! Here is where I always stop to grab a bite:
- Red Hills Market: A total staple. It is a cute market with killer sandwiches and wood fired pizzas. It is the quintessential Willamette Valley lunch spot that I like a bit too much.
- Trellis: If you want a proper, yummy sit down meal, Trellis is reliable and delicious. The vibe is super welcoming and perfect for refueling after a long day of tasting.
- The Newbergundian Bistro: Do not let the surprising spot fool you. The food here is fantastic. It is a local hidden gem that serves up seriously good bistro fare.
- Stoller Wine Bar (Downtown Newberg): If you cannot make it out to the main estate, their downtown bar is so cute. They have a food cart pod right there, so you can grab a glass of Stoller’s finest and pair it with whatever food truck sounds good that day.
- JORY at The Allison Inn: The splurge option. It is bougie, but for a reason. I had the best scrambled eggs of my life here and still think about them years later. It is perfect for a celebratory dinner or brunch! nh
Final Pro Tips
Most of these spots require or at least strongly suggest reservations on the weekends. Book ahead so you can spend your time sipping instead of standing in line! Also, mix it up. A great day is usually one big view spot, one downtown tasting room, and one small production winery.