Tried to tour the Dundee Hills wineries the day after Thanksgiving. Over 160 wineries were open, most only open to the public for drop-in that one day.
Happily I was the designated driver of a rental van full of 5 adults and 2 very patient youngsters.
In 5 hours we covered 4 vineyards!
Tastings run about $15, and you get a souvenir glass, and snacks. Number of pourings depends on the vineyard
http://www.willamettewines.com/thanksgiving.shtml
Starting with Duck Pond in Dundee:
www.duckpondcellars.com
No ducks. No pond. Absolutely beautiful grounds and a nice gift shop with non-alcoholic drinks for the kids.
Next stop:Â Red Ridge – Between Dundee and Lafeyette
It’s a nursery, with a garden shop, and they are now pressing their own olive oil. In addition to wine tastings from neighboring vineyards, they had an olive oil tasting as well. Gorgeous views, and a nice deck looking over the hills. I bought an adorable button fern. They sell an eclectic selection of medicinal herbs as well.
Vista Hills Vineyard – Dayton, OR
We seemed to stay longer as the tour progressed. Vista hills is surrounded by trees, overlooking the hills, of course. They have a huge deck with a view, and an outdoor fireplace downstairs. We packed lunch in Portland and stayed here to eat. Apparently, at a nearby vineyard, you can rent horses and sign up for a tour of vineyards by horseback.
Belle Pente
Belle Pente is open by appointment only. Glad we stopped by for the tasting. More amazing views, and a pen of chickens and geese.
