By Scott Cotrell, February 21, 2019
WILLAMETTE VALLEY WINE COUNTRY
This is an awesome drive with stunning views: Start in the Morning and drive SW Scholls Ferry Rd (210 to 219) a beautiful drive. Stop at the Smith Berry Barn for coffee and a quick visit then off to Argyle Winery in Dundee taking a scenic route via 219 then W99. Argyle has some of the best sparkling wine in the valley. Next, visit Archery Summit Wineryin the Red Hills. They produce some of the best pinot noir in the world. Continue up the hill first to Domain Drouhin then back to Domain Serene. Domain Drouhin has the most amazing views of the valley and is a beautiful winery. Domain Serene is know for producing award winning pinot noir and they are proud of it. They also make an elegant chardonnay. A great stop off for lunch is in Carlton at The Horse Radish. After lunch walk down the street to K&M Wines and visit with winemaker, Ken Morrison. Ken pours delicious and approachable wines with a friendly smile. Check out the art on display. One of our favorite stops is Lenne Estate which is a smaller winery producing elegant pinot noir and amazing views. Last on the list and just across from Lenne is WillaKenzie Estate. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Portland through the valley via Spring Hill Rd and 47 to Forest Grove and then to Hwy 26.
There are so many great wineries in the Willamette Valley. Here are some others to consider: Sokol Blosser Winery,Adelsheim, Vidon, J. Christopher, Penner-Ash, Carlton Wine Maker Studio, Carlton Cellars, Lemelson, Soter Vineyards
COLUMBIA GORGE, HOOD RIVER, FRUIT LOOP AND MOUNT HOOD
Start in historic Troutdale on Hwy 30 the Historic Columbia River Hwy driving through quaint downtown. Cross the Sandy River on the narrow steel bridge then travel to Vista House for breath-taking views of the Columbia River Gorge. Continue on Hwy 30 to famous Multnomah Falls. Your drive continues to the lovely town of Hood River, Oregon. Stroll through main street for great shopping, wineries, art galleries and delightful restaurants. Try Boda’s Kitchen or Celilo. Take a scenic drive via Eastside Rd and stop a the Panorama Point County Park (part of the “Fruit Loop”, click for Map). Make a stop by Hood River Lavender Farms then drive to Parkdale. Parkdale is a great place for a picnic in the park. Continue on Hwy 35 and 26 then travel to Mt Hood and drive up the mountain to Timerline Lodge.
COLUMBIA GORGE WINEMAKERS REGION
Start in Hood River and travel over to Washington. You will find: Syncline, Cor, Domaine Pouillon, Cascade Cliffs Vineyard, Jacob Williams and Maryhill Wineries. The unique geography in this region allows for the production of diverse wines like: Cab Franc, Syrah, Rhone varietals, Mourvedre and Italian style Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Barbera to name a few. Your drive eastward also delights with more breathtaking views of the gorge. On the Oregon Side visit Analemma Wines and Garnier Vineyards for some exciting wines.
DAY TRIP TO THE OREGON COAST
From Portland drive west to Tillamook via Hwy 26 to Hwy 6. Start with Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint and see the lighthouse. A quick drive takes you to Oceanside. Enjoy a walk on one of our favorite beaches. If able, be sure to walk through the tunnel to the northerly second beach. An easy delicious food stop is Blue Agate. Drive north on 101 to Manzanita and Cannon Beach. Both offer a romantic and quaint village gorgeous beaches. (Eat at Cannon Beach Cafe for a delicious meal.) Make sure to stop at the many wonderful scenic views on the way. Both towns has great hotels, restaurants and good shopping.
A DAY IN PORTLAND
Visit some of the uniquely beautiful and lovely sites around the city such as: the Portland Japanese Garden, Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University (on Saturdays). In May through August visit the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park. Portland is a creative culinary mecca with tons of breweries, micro distilleries, food carts and renowned restaurants to enjoy. Visit the 72 food carts at SW10th and Alder for a taste of the food cart scene. A ride on the street cars around town is always fun. You will find great shopping all over, but suggest focusing on NW 23rd St., Stroll around the Pearl District for a glimpse at Portland’s urban living scene. A visit isn’t complete with out a stop at Powell Books and of course a walk along river front parks.
SOME AWESOME PORTLAND RESTAURANTS
- Beast
- Expatriate
- Le Pigeon
- Pok Pok
- Little Bird
- Lucca
- Nostrana
- Laurelhurst Market
- Ava Genes
- Screen Door
- Boke Bowl
- Ken’s
- Artisan Pizza
- Salt and Straw
BREAKFAST
- Lauretta Jeans (for the best Biscuits and Pie)
- Arleta Library Bakery Cafe (my favorite)
- St. Honore Boulangerie
- Tasty and Sons
- Sweedeedee
- Byways Cafe
- Broder
WINE COUNTRY RESTAURANTS
Newburg:
- Painted Lady (fabulous) great wine paring
- Jory at the Allison Inn
- Recipe
Carlton:
Dayton:
Dundee:
McMinnville:
