In the vibrant heart of Portland, Oregon, a unique partnership between a renowned local winery and a stylish boutique hotel is bringing the essence of Oregon’s famed wine country directly to urban travelers. Chehalem Winery, a pioneer in Willamette Valley winemaking, has collaborated with the modern Hi-Lo Hotel to create the exclusive Hi-Lo Cuvée wines. These special releases, crafted from grapes sourced across three distinct Oregon AVAs, offer Hi-Lo Hotel guests an unparalleled taste of the region’s diverse terroir without ever leaving the city.
The spirit of collaboration thrives in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, extending far beyond the vineyards. This ethos of mutual support and creative partnership is a defining characteristic of the Pacific Northwest’s dynamic culinary and beverage scene. From celebrated chefs joining forces for limited-edition creations to distilleries partnering with breweries, and chocolatiers finding common ground with wineries, a beautiful synergy ignites and sustains innovation. It’s this very spirit that Hi-Lo Hotel Manager Eric Paul sought to infuse into the guest experience, leading to the creation of the exquisite Hi-Lo Cuvée wines now proudly poured at the hotel.
The Hi-Lo Hotel: Your Urban Gateway to Oregon Wine Country
The Hi-Lo Hotel stands as one of Portland’s most exciting boutique destinations, a haven for discerning foodies, creative artists, ambitious young professionals, and savvy business travelers alike. While Oregon’s renowned wine country is just a short drive from downtown Portland, many visitors find their itineraries too packed for a full day of vineyard tours. Recognizing this, the Hi-Lo Hotel offers a thoughtful solution: a curated selection of Oregon’s finest through its exclusive Hi-Lo Cuvée wines. These exceptional wines, a direct result of the partnership with the esteemed Chehalem Winery, allow guests to savor the authentic flavors of the Willamette Valley and beyond, right from the comfort of their urban retreat. This unique offering bridges the gap between city exploration and wine appreciation, ensuring every guest can connect with the heart of Oregon’s vinicultural heritage.
Chehalem Winery: A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability
To truly understand the depth of this special collaboration, a visit to Chehalem Winery is indispensable. Located just a stone’s throw from Newberg, Oregon, the winery embodies the pioneering spirit of the Willamette Valley. Chehalem’s story began in 1980, laying roots that would eventually flourish into one of the region’s most respected estates. The historic Corral Creek Vineyard, which we had the privilege of touring, was first planted in 1983 – a landmark year that also saw the official approval of the Willamette Valley AVA. This deep connection to the land and its history is evident in every bottle produced.
Chehalem Winery’s philosophy centers on crafting wines with exceptional balance, allowing the unique characteristics of each vineyard site to shine through. Their wines are a testament to the distinct microclimates and soils found across three premier Oregon AVAs, showcasing the incredible diversity of the region. Grapes are meticulously sourced from:
- Ridgecrest Vineyards in the prestigious Ribbon Ridge AVA, known for its marine sedimentary soils and elegant Pinot Noirs.
- Corral Creek Vineyards within the sprawling Willamette Valley AVA, where the winery’s legacy began, offering a broader expression of the valley’s character.
- Stoller Vineyards in the celebrated Dundee Hills AVA, renowned for its iron-rich Jory soils that yield vibrant, fruit-forward wines.
During our visit, Chehalem Winery was abuzz with the release of their 2017 Three Vineyard Rosé, a true masterpiece priced at $25 a bottle. This rosé immediately captivated with its elegant, graceful character and alluring light salmon hue. It presents a remarkable balance of crisp acidity and delicate fruit notes, making it an ideal companion for spring and summer evenings on the porch, yet sophisticated enough to elevate any special occasion. It’s a testament to Chehalem’s ability to produce wines that are both approachable and deeply refined. Beyond this delightful rosé, Chehalem Winery boasts a diverse portfolio that includes several acclaimed Pinot Noirs, vibrant Rieslings, crisp Pinot Gris, nuanced Chardonnays, refreshing Pinot Blancs, intriguing Gamay Noirs, and even a unique Grüner Veltliner, each reflecting the winery’s commitment to quality and expression of place.
Our comprehensive tour provided invaluable insights into Chehalem’s operations and philosophy. We were guided by the knowledgeable Cellar Master Greg Martin and the talented Associate Winemaker Katie Santora. They passionately shared the rich history behind Chehalem Winery’s vineyards, detailing the evolution of their winemaking practices over decades. Their dedication to sustainable viticulture and enology was immediately apparent.
A striking feature they highlighted was the extensive array of solar panels that gracefully flank the top of Corral Creek Vineyard. These panels are a testament to Chehalem’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, generating up to 50 percent of the winery’s energy needs throughout much of the year, and an impressive 30% even during the demanding harvest season. This focus on sustainability extends throughout their operations; all three of Chehalem’s vineyards proudly hold both LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) Certified Sustainable and Salmon Safe certifications, ensuring that their practices not only produce exceptional wine but also protect the delicate ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest.
No visit to an Oregon winery would truly be complete without the charming presence of its resident vineyard dogs. Our tour was made even more memorable by greetings from several delightful canine companions, including Katie Santora’s lovable dog, Mani. These furry friends add an extra layer of warmth and hospitality, making the Chehalem experience feel truly welcoming and authentic. Mani, with his friendly demeanor, was certainly a highlight, and his presence alone is enough reason for a return visit!
Following our enlightening tour of the Corral Creek Vineyard, we moved to an exclusive barrel tasting session. This rare opportunity allowed us to sample the highly anticipated 2017 Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Gris, directly from the barrel, even before its official bottling. The nascent flavors hinted at the vibrant, food-friendly wine it would soon become, a testament to the meticulous care and expertise that goes into every bottle from Chehalem.
A Culinary Showcase: Lunch by Alto Bajo
Our immersive Chehalem Winery experience culminated in a truly unforgettable spring luncheon, expertly catered by Alto Bajo, the Hi-Lo Hotel’s distinguished signature restaurant. Chef Chip Barnes, Brandon, and their exceptional team orchestrated a magnificent feast, prepared with artistry and skill, emphasizing the unique flavors born from cooking by fire. This culinary partnership perfectly mirrored the collaborative spirit of the Hi-Lo Cuvée, blending the finest local ingredients with inspired techniques.
The menu was a delightful exploration of flavors, blending traditional Mexican culinary artistry with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest:
- Guacamole “Alto” – A refreshing starter featuring housemade guacamole, complemented by a rich salsa macha, served with crispy Three Sister’s Nixtamal tortilla chips.
- Cochinita Pibil – A Yucatan-style pork dish, slow-cooked to tender perfection, accompanied by vibrant pickled onions, a zesty habanero slaw, hearty black beans, and fluffy white rice.
- Tikin Xic – A show-stopping whole king salmon, expertly seasoned with annatto and wrapped in banana leaf, then cooked over an open fire to achieve a smoky, succulent finish.
Every dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The chefs demonstrated remarkable skill in harmonizing the fresh, vibrant ingredients characteristic of the Pacific Northwest with the rich, traditional nuances of Mexican cuisine. This luncheon was not just a meal; it was a testament to the creative potential of cross-cultural culinary dialogue. I eagerly anticipate a return visit to Alto Bajo to further explore their impressive gastronomic offerings.
The Hi-Lo Cuvée: A Perfect Reflection of Oregon’s Terroir
Throughout our delightful lunch at Chehalem Winery, we had the pleasure of pairing each course with the distinctive Hi-Lo Cuvée wines. Both the Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Gris and the Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Noir proved to be exceptionally food-friendly and remarkably versatile. These “drink now” wines are specifically crafted for immediate enjoyment, embodying the vibrant freshness and approachability that characterize many Oregon wines. What makes them truly special is their ability to beautifully represent the diverse terroirs of Oregon, thanks to the careful selection of grapes from Chehalem Winery’s three distinct vineyards, spanning multiple prestigious AVAs.
The Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Gris offers a bright, crisp profile with notes of citrus and orchard fruits, making it a perfect complement to a wide range of dishes, particularly seafood and lighter fare. The Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Noir, on the other hand, presents a charming balance of red fruit flavors, subtle earthy undertones, and a smooth finish, ideal for pairing with heartier meals like the Cochinita Pibil or the salmon. Both wines are designed to offer a delightful and accessible introduction to Oregon’s world-class winemaking. Guests at the Hi-Lo Hotel can easily indulge in these exclusive wines at the hotel’s restaurant and bar. The Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Gris is available for $9 per glass or $45 per bottle, while the Hi-Lo Cuvée Pinot Noir can be savored for $11 per glass or $55 per bottle. For those wishing to take a piece of Oregon wine country home, bottles can also be conveniently purchased at the hotel’s shop, making for a perfect souvenir or gift.
Dine at Alto Bajo: An Unforgettable Portland Culinary Experience
For those eager to experience the culinary artistry showcased during our luncheon, Alto Bajo restaurant & the Lo Bar await your visit. Nestled within the elegant Hi-Lo Hotel, this dining destination promises an exceptional journey through modern Mexican cuisine, infused with the vibrant bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or simply seeking an outstanding meal in downtown Portland, Alto Bajo offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Discover their innovative menu and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails.
Alto Bajo restaurant & the Lo Bar
310 SW Stark Street
Portland, Oregon
Visit www.AltoBajo.com for more information and reservations.
Visit Chehalem Winery: Explore Oregon’s Wine Country Firsthand
To fully appreciate the dedication and passion behind the Hi-Lo Cuvée wines, a trip to Chehalem Winery itself is highly recommended. Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, the winery offers a welcoming environment where you can taste their full range of acclaimed wines and immerse yourself in the beauty of their vineyards. Whether you prefer the charm of their downtown Newberg tasting room or a direct visit to the vineyard and production facility, Chehalem provides an authentic Oregon wine country experience. Explore their commitment to sustainability, learn about their diverse vineyards, and perhaps even meet their friendly winery dogs.
Chehalem Tasting Room & Wine Bar
106 South Center Street
Newberg, Oregon 97132
503.538.4700
Chehalem Winery (Vineyard & Production)
31190 NE Veritas Lane
Newberg, Oregon 97132
503.537.5553
For more detailed information about their wines, history, and visiting hours, please visit www.ChehalemWines.com.
This remarkable collaboration between Chehalem Winery and the Hi-Lo Hotel truly embodies the best of Oregon – exceptional wine, innovative cuisine, and a spirit of community. It offers both locals and visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s rich culture and savor its finest flavors, whether in the heart of Portland or amidst the serene beauty of wine country. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Hi-Lo Cuvée and the vibrant world it represents.
I was graciously invited to a media luncheon at Chehalem Winery, and all opinions and accompanying photographs in this article are, as always, entirely my own.