Having been in the industry for some time, I always have people asking me for suggestions on places to eat, stay and wine taste at, so I’ve decided to compile some of the best and share them with you. In this guide you’ll find amazing wineries that have become some of my very favorites. Whether that’s because of the great experiences they offer, or incredible views, or all of the above, these are the top few wineries I would share with my favorite people! You’ll also find some amazing spots to grab a quick bite, or have an amazing sit down experience full of the most delicious cuisine in the area. And of course we can’t forget a place for some good RnR, only to wake up and do it all over again! So let’s go!
Wineries and their Experiences
Having been around Willamette Valley for a bit, the Dundee region has definitely become one of my favorites do to the amazing and delicious quality of wines you can find here, including one of my favorite varietals, Pinot Noir. There’s word on the street that the Pinot Noir produced here is very similar to that of Burgundy, France. And that’s quite a reputation to uphold. But Dundee seems to have proven them selves time and time again. So here are a few of my favorites!
1. Domaine Roy- https://www.domaineroy.com
Jared Etzel definitely saw something special on that rainy November day back in 2012 when he walked through the old filbert orchard. And that’s where Domain Roy begin! Having seen the consistency of the trunks on each tree, he knew this would be the perfect site for incredible Pinot and Chardonnay he was going to produce, and he did just that! Domaine Roy offers some of the most impeccable wines I’ve tasted in the valley. Don’t get me wrong, there’s lots of great vineyards here, but having enjoyed the Pinots and Chardonnays from this winery year after year for the past 5, and getting a consistent and delicious product, it would be wrong not to share it! Be sure to plan on spending some extra time when you come to do a tasting here! Their incredibly knowledgeable staff would be more then happy to take you on a tour of the winery, vineyard and my favorite, the barrel room! Grab yourself a tasty charcuterie board, and go hang out on their deck while you enjoy some of the best views this area has to offer. You can thank you later!
2. Dobbes Family Estate- https://dobbesfamilyestate.com
Having been in the industry for over 17 years, Joe decided to bring something unique and inspiring to the Dundee area and that’s where his Dobbes Estate baby came to be! Now Celebrating 20 years as a winery, the Dobbes Family Estate brings you one of the most unique and tasteful offerings of the area. With a beautiful urban winery right in the heart of Dundee, you’re sure to be in aww of each of the cool areas they have! One of my favorite experiences they offer, is the Oregon Bounty food and wine pairing led by one of their wonderful staff Jessy. Be sure to check it out and make your reservation as these are offered on a limited time basis!
3. Archery Summit- https://www.archerysummit.com
If you’re anything like me, and love a good wine cave, then this is definitely one you’ll need to add to your list! Oregon has several caves, but only one natural cave system that dates back to the early 90s. Carved right out of the volcanic rock, you’re sure to feel some sort of way when exploring this amazing winery! Be sure to ask for a immersed cave tour as you learn about the rich history and the amazing wine making process offered here! They aren’t known for being one of the best spots for Pinot for nothing!
4. Remy Wines- https://remywines.com
Remy wines is one of those wineries that are easy to miss. Small production and tucked off the main road. But this is definitely one you don’t want to miss! Being a true lover of Italian wines, there aren’t many places that speak 100% to my taste and palate, that is until I discovered Remys wines! Unique, delicious, and one of a kind is the way I would describe these wines, which speaks true to the genuine and wonderful person who makes them, Remy! Putting her own spin on old-world Italian wines, you are sure to find something delicious to take home here! And be sure to sign up for their emails and events as they throw some of the most fun events I’ve been to in the area! P.s. I’d be lying if it didn’t mention, that one of the beat things here besides the wine is Wilson, but you’ll just have to go meet him yourself!
Dinning options
As much as we all love wine, we’ll definitely need to find somewhere to eat before, during and after all that wine tasting. So be sure to check out my 3 favorites.
1. The Dundee Bistro- http://www.dundeebistro.com
Offering one of the most delicious menus, there’s is sure to be something here for everyone. The Dundee Bistro is owned by one of our earliest wine producing family’s, the Ponzi’s, and has been serving the region for over 20 years. The bistro brings in world class taste, European sophistication, and a casual atmosphere all in one. Having had the pleasure to taste through the whole menu, I can attest to the amazing culinary expertise that is offered here by their executive chef- Oliver Crawford. You’ll definitely want to make it here for a lunch and a dinner, because you will miss out not having experienced every bite the menu has to offer! P.S. The bistro may be known for having some of the most delicious wines from the region and the world, but you won’t want to miss a night cap with one of their crafted cocktails like the Old-boy, which is a classic spin on the old-fashioned, and my other favorite, the Dundee bypass- paying homage to the by-pass created for thinning out some of the growing regions, traffic!
2. Trellis Wine Bar and Kitchen- https://trellisdundee.com
There’s a time and a place for amazing food, crafted cocktails and a more upscale vibe. And then there’s just wanting a delicious burger, or pasta dish, sit at the bar and hang out with the bartenders and catch up on all the fun the area has to offer. Be sure to stop by this tasty spot, and have a boat load of their tasty rosemary fries with their garlic aïoli, you might hate me later ;), but I couldn’t keep this fan favorite all to myself!
3. Red Hills Market- https://www.redhillsmarket.com
While I love me a sit down place, I also enjoy finding cool grab and go places, that also offer sit down options and great coffee, and you’re sure to find that and more at the Red Hills Market. From delicious soups and sandwiches, to wonderful pizza, and incredible coffee, there’s something here for everyone. You want a glass of wine and snack on some olives, they have it. You want a half a sandwich with some soup, they have it. You want a beer while the rest of your group wants to share a bottle of wine, they have it all! Be sure to stop by, you won’t leave here empty handed, I can promise you that!
Rest and Relaxation
After a full day of fun, you’ll want somewhere to rest and relax to be ready to do it all over again the next day. So be sure to check out my friends at The Dundee Hotel.
The Dundee Hotel- https://thedundee.com
A great central location only a couple minute drive to each of the mentioned spots on the guide making it super easy to have access to everything right at your finger tips. You’ll get a great nights rest in their cozy suits, enjoy a hot cup of coffee in the morning, and be able to relax and kick your feet up lounging in their cozy robes, while you enjoy the beautiful and tasteful decor the hotel has to offer!
If I haven’t talked you into coming to visit this beautiful region, then I hope the pictures do just that for me! Be sure to leave me your thoughts and what else the guide could use for people to check out!
The Whole Wine Yards 