In the heart of Oregon’s acclaimed Willamette Valley, a remarkable fusion of technology, science, and the timeless art of wine tasting awaits visitors at the Stoller Experience Center. This innovative destination redefines what a winery visit can be, offering an unparalleled journey into the world of winemaking for enthusiasts, novices, and curious minds alike.
When planning a wine country outing that caters to every type of visitor – from seasoned connoisseurs who delight in granular details, to those new to wine tasting, or simply friends seeking a relaxed weekend escape – the Stoller Family Estate in the heart of Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley stands out. With the magnificent addition of the Stoller Experience Center, opened to the public on July 17, 2020, this estate has truly cultivated a unique space designed to captivate and educate everyone.
Discover the Stoller Experience Center: A New Era in Wine Tourism
Nestled a short, scenic walk west of the main tasting room, perched gracefully above the historic grain silo, lies the impressive 8,000 square foot Stoller Experience Center. This state-of-the-art facility was conceived to make the intricate processes of winemaking and vineyard management more accessible and engaging than ever before, leveraging cutting-edge technologies. From the moment it opened, it has offered guests expanded wine tasting areas, sophisticated event spaces, and immersive educational opportunities that set a new standard for winery visits.
The design of the Stoller Experience Center thoughtfully integrates with the natural beauty of the Willamette Valley. Its architecture balances modern elegance with rustic charm, featuring expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the rolling vineyards. The interior is bright, open, and inviting, creating an atmosphere that is both luxurious and comfortable. Every detail, from the sustainable materials used in construction to the careful placement of seating areas, contributes to an experience that feels deeply connected to the land and the craft of winemaking.
More Than Just a Tasting Room: The Fusion of Wine and Innovation
Step inside the Stoller Experience Center, and you might at first perceive it as a beautifully appointed, large-scale tasting room, reminiscent of Stoller’s existing main building. Guests are welcomed with the signature Stoller hospitality, with wine tasting taking center stage. Yet, as you delve deeper, it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary wine destination. The technology is not merely an add-on; it’s intricately and organically woven into the very fabric of the experience, enhancing rather than overshadowing the enjoyment of the wine itself.
High-Tech Wine Exploration: Engaging All Your Senses
The Stoller Experience Center is a playground for those fascinated by the science and artistry behind every bottle. To your right, just beyond the elegant main wine tasting bar, an imposing 20-foot interactive screen commands attention. This massive display acts as a dynamic canvas, controlled to present a rich variety of multimedia content. Visitors can delve into detailed information about Stoller’s vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, explore historical archives, and even visualize the impact of climate and geology on the grapes. It transforms passive observation into an active learning journey, making complex data digestible and exciting.
Across the room, another equally impressive 20-foot display presents a truly unique art installation. This is no static masterpiece; it’s an augmented reality installation, where technology is seamlessly embedded within each canvas. Corvallis, Oregon artist Jonmar’s captivating paintings come to life through the use of Stoller-provided iPads. Guests can interact with the art, uncovering hidden layers of information, animations, and narratives that tell the story of the vineyard and the region. This innovative blend of traditional art and digital interaction provides a fresh perspective, engaging visitors in a dialogue between creativity and technology that deepens their connection to the Stoller brand.
Delve Deeper: For the Ultimate Wine Geek
For many passionate wine lovers and students of viticulture, the desire to understand every nuance of what’s in their glass is profound. The Stoller Experience Center caters to this curiosity with its revolutionary interactive touchscreen tables. Take a comfortable seat at one of these innovative stations, and prepare to embark on an educational odyssey. While savoring Stoller’s exquisite wines, you can access an astonishing wealth of detailed information that goes far beyond a typical tasting note. These tables allow you to explore intricate data about Stoller’s vineyards, including specific elevations, soil compositions across different blocks, sophisticated vineyard management practices, and precise climate data for various growing seasons.
Want to pinpoint the exact vineyard block your Pinot Noir originated from, or understand the characteristics of a particular vintage? A simple touch of the screen provides answers. Information is meticulously organized by grape varietal, offering a comprehensive look at how each grape expresses itself in the unique Willamette Valley terroir. Furthermore, a rich repository of historical information about the land and the Stoller Family Estate’s pioneering journey is readily available, connecting you to the legacy behind every bottle. These interactive displays are strategically placed for comfort and accessibility: two are integrated into low tables accompanied by plush indoor couches, perfect for a relaxed deep dive, and two are positioned at high tables near the windows, offering stunning vineyard views as you learn.
Adding another layer of sensory immersion, the stunning wall of roll-up windows that elegantly separates the indoor tasting area from the expansive outdoor patio harbors a hidden technological marvel: a sprawling 136-foot immersive display. This breathtaking screen can transform the ambiance, showcasing dynamic vineyard scenes, historical footage, or custom content for private events. It’s an exceptional feature for corporate gatherings, weddings, and Stoller’s own special events, creating an unforgettable backdrop. Furthermore, a virtual reality experience is a current highlight in the new space, allowing guests to journey into the vineyards, explore the cellars, or even witness a virtual harvest, transcending the physical boundaries of the estate.
While the technological prowess of the Stoller Experience Center is undoubtedly impressive, it never overshadows the core mission: delivering an exceptional wine tasting experience rooted in genuine hospitality. The innovations serve to enrich, not replace, the classic enjoyment of Stoller wines. The attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and cared for, blending high-tech discovery with the warm, personal touch that Stoller is renowned for.
Planning Your Wine Tasting Journey at the Stoller Experience Center
The Stoller Experience Center offers a multitude of inviting spaces for wine tasting. In addition to the stunning indoor areas, the expansive outdoor patio can comfortably accommodate a significant number of guests, providing an idyllic setting amidst the vineyards. While specific guidelines may evolve, Stoller consistently prioritizes guest comfort and safety, ensuring ample space between tables for a relaxed and enjoyable visit, both in the Experience Center and the main tasting room.
To ensure a personalized and seamless experience, reservations are highly recommended, and often required, for wine tasting at Stoller Family Estate. You can easily make your reservation online and specify your preference to be seated in the new Stoller Experience Center. Priority seating is often extended to valued club members, reflecting Stoller’s appreciation for their loyal community. Upon arrival, guests are warmly greeted in the driveway and directed to the center. The greeter will promptly notify the tasting room of your presence, ensuring your wines are prepared for a smooth start to your tasting journey. For the comfort of all guests, common courtesies, such as being seated while enjoying your wines, are appreciated.
Each reservation typically spans one and a half hours, a duration carefully chosen to allow guests ample time to relax, explore the center, and savor their wines without feeling rushed. This also provides the dedicated Stoller staff with sufficient time to meticulously clean and disinfect all spaces, glassware, and interactive equipment between reservations, upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction. Wine flights are thoughtfully presented, often poured all at once, allowing guests to appreciate the full spectrum of wines at their own pace. Each flight is priced at $20, with the tasting fee graciously waived with the purchase of two bottles of wine. Stoller Family Estate club members continue to enjoy the privilege of a complimentary wine tasting flight as part of their membership benefits.
Elevated Culinary Offerings: A Perfect Pairing
No wine tasting experience is complete without exquisite culinary pairings, and Stoller delivers with a thoughtfully curated food menu designed to complement their exceptional wines. Guests can choose from a delightful selection of light bites and more substantial offerings. Indulge in freshly prepared sandwiches, priced at $16, perfect for a satisfying lunch amidst the vineyards. For those seeking classic wine country fare, the elegant cheese and charcuterie board, or the dedicated cheese board, both available for $30, feature an array of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, nuts, and delectable accompaniments, meticulously selected to enhance your tasting experience.
Stoller Family Estate embraces families, making it a welcoming destination for visitors of all ages. While children are always welcome, parents are kindly asked to maintain close supervision to ensure a serene and enjoyable atmosphere for all guests. To cater to younger palates, Stoller offers a specially designed Kids Snack Pack for $10, and a refreshing juice box for $2. These snack packs are thoughtfully assembled with child-friendly items such as cheese, crackers, a selection of fresh fruit and/or vegetables, almond butter, and jam, providing a wholesome and delicious treat for little ones.
A significant enhancement brought by the Stoller Experience Center, particularly thrilling for culinary enthusiasts, is the addition of a gleaming, state-of-the-art full kitchen. This impressive facility is overseen by Chef Becca Richards, affectionately known as Chef Bex, Stoller’s highly acclaimed Culinary Director. Widely recognized as one of the region’s most talented winery chefs, Chef Bex now has an expanded canvas to express her exceptional culinary creativity. This new kitchen empowers her to craft even more sophisticated and innovative food and wine pairings, develop special event menus, and perhaps even host exclusive culinary experiences, all to the immense benefit of Stoller guests seeking a truly integrated gastronomic and vinous journey.
Plan Your Visit to the Stoller Experience Center
The Stoller Experience Center has been welcoming guests since its grand opening on Friday, July 17, 2020, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination in the Willamette Valley. Immerse yourself in the future of wine tourism and discover the harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and unparalleled hospitality.
Stoller Family Estate
16161 Northeast McDougall RoadDayton, OR 97114
(503) 864-3404
HOURS: Open daily, 11am – 5pm
Wine tasting reservations are highly recommended and often required in advance to ensure your preferred time and a personalized experience.
Make your wine tasting reservation online
Wine tasting flight cost: $20 per person, generously waived with a qualifying 2-bottle purchase. Esteemed Stoller Family Estate club members receive a complimentary wine tasting flight as part of their exclusive benefits.
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