10 Willamette Valley Wineries for Newcomers to Oregon Wines
by Penny Sadler
“In 2016, Willamette Valley was named wine region of the year by Wine Enthusiast magazine. As one of the world’s premier pinot noir producing regions, now is a great time to visit Willamette Valley if you love wine. Not only does this cool-climate region produce award-winning pinot noir, but you’ll also find exceptional riesling, chardonnay, pinot gris, and pinot blanc.
Of course, with nearly 600 wineries to choose from, how do you decide where to visit? We’ve compiled our top ten list of the best places so you don’t have to. From hillside views to Tuscan farmhouses, go forth and explore the wonderful wines of Willamette Valley at any of these best wineries for newcomers.
World-Class Sparkling: Argyle
Argyle Winery is consistently recognized for the quality of its sparkling wines – many of which, like a good Champagne, can be aged for years. It is also the only winery in Willamette to produce wines that are consistently rated by Wine Spectator as the Top 100 Wines of the World in three categories: red, white, and sparkling. The tasting room, once a hazelnut processing plant, has been open since 1987 when Argyle produced its first vintage. Book an appointment in advance and enjoy tasting wines from one of Willamette’s oldest and highest rated wineries. Don’t worry if you don’t like bubbles, Argyle also produces a large number of still wines.”