We're obvs fans of a stellar view, and there is no short supply of them here in wine country. Here are the ones that top our list.
Sherwood
About 15 minutes north of our homes in Newberg, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is a close-by, calm oasis filled with birds and other wildlife. It’s a nice little spot to go for a nature walk and get some exercise and fresh air without the long drive. The walks are flat and easy to manage, with the entire perimeter trail open from May – October for the best viewing opportunities. No running, no dogs.
McMinnville
Having a beautiful nature walk within 15 minutes of downtown McMinnville is a gift, and Miller Woods is a total local treasure: 130 acres of woodlands, with a 3.7 loop hike (easy with small hills, and runnable), two ponds, picnic areas and wildlife viewing opportunities. Day use donation of $5 is suggested. No dogs or drones.
Newberg
Located near the northern end of Ribbon Ridge, this perfectly situated winery is producing elegant and beautiful Chardonnay and estate Pinot Noir. They have one of the best views in the valley, and a large picnic area where you can bring a meal, buy a bottle, relax and soak it all up.
Dundee
Tucked away up in the Dundee Hills, this is our favorite home goods, nursery and high-end gifting shop in the valley. Try the olive oil, and try your best to not buy every tea towel and beautiful handmade wood bowl in the shop.
Dundee
Pretty much every winery along the Dundee Hills’ Worden Hill Road is worth a visit – the views are stunning and the pinot pitch-perfect. Winderlea is one of our favorites, for the cozy and beautiful tasting room, upbeat crew, and fun food & wine events. Open during the week, appointments needed on the weekend, open until 6pm on Fridays in the summer. Estate vineyard wines are bio & organic starting in 2016.
Dundee
We consider Stoller a must-do when visiting the valley, for their deep local roots, the gorgeous wines, stunner of a tasting room and sweeping vineyard views. This is our favorite “wine country happy hour” spot, with a bottle of rosé and a nice lounge in the adirondacks while taking in the view.
Carlton
One of the best views you’ll find in the valley, along with some of the most beautiful wines, and a truly stunning biodynamic estate. They have a cozy fireplace and host some of the best can’t-miss events.
Dundee
Beautiful small-production pinot and chardonnay, a gorgeous tasting room, the sweetest winery dogs, and warm, welcoming hospitality. Make sure to also try Chase’s Tuscan-made sangiovese.
Amity
If riesling is your thing, Brooks can’t be missed, but they have a full lineup of pinot noir and other whites, too. They also have a really fun tasting room team, a great food menu, a stunner of a view, and a constant calendar of events. It’s always a really fun time there, making it our go-to spot with guests. Dog-friendly outside. Estate wines are biodynamic.
Salem
Stunning views, friendly people, beautifully designed tasting room and of course, lovely wines. Their estate chardonnay is one of our favorites – whole cluster, mostly neutral oak, unfined. LIVE certified sustainable.