The annual Feast Portland festival is much more than a culinary showcase; it’s a vibrant celebration where the artistry of food meets the elegance of wine. The Fifth Annual Feast Portland, held in 2016, proved to be an unforgettable experience, offering a magnificent array of flavors to tantalize every palate. As a four-time attendee, I can confidently say that each year surpasses the last, with 2016 being no exception. The festival is a testament to the Pacific Northwest’s thriving gastronomic scene, bringing together acclaimed chefs, passionate winemakers, and enthusiastic food and wine lovers from across the globe.
My journey through Feast Portland 2016 was packed with exciting events, from the exclusive Media Breakfast to the bustling Grand Tasting, and from the innovative Fun Size Event “Peace, Love, and Cocktails” to the high-energy Oregon Media Group SMOKED! and the lively Eater after-party at Irving Street Kitchen. While I indulged in an incredible selection of dishes crafted by some of my most admired chefs, my senses were equally captivated by the exquisite wines poured by both long-standing favorite wineries and exciting new discoveries from Oregon and Washington. These wines, carefully curated and passionately presented, were the perfect companions to the weekend’s gastronomic adventures.
Join me as we uncork the memories and explore some of the most memorable Feast Portland wines of 2016. This curated selection highlights the diversity, quality, and innovative spirit that define the Pacific Northwest wine industry.
Exploring the Grand Vintages at Feast Portland’s Grand Tasting
The Grand Tasting is often considered the heart of Feast Portland, a sprawling, immersive experience that gathers dozens of top chefs, artisan food producers, and, of course, a remarkable lineup of wineries under one roof. The energy is palpable, with eager attendees navigating through a mosaic of flavors, aromas, and culinary creativity. For wine enthusiasts, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to sample a broad spectrum of regional wines, interact directly with winemakers, and discover new favorites. My exploration of the 2016 Grand Tasting began with a destination in mind.
Upon our arrival at the Grand Tasting, my group made a direct path to the enticing USA Pears pop-up tent. Here, the incredibly talented Chef Doug Adams, a Top Chef Boston finalist and then-chef at Portland’s renowned Imperial, was orchestrating a magnificent culinary demonstration. Chef Adams, who would later open his own highly anticipated restaurant in 2017, masterfully prepared four distinct pairings designed to complement the exquisite wines of Chateau Ste. Michelle. This Washington State powerhouse is celebrated for its diverse portfolio, producing everything from crisp Rieslings to robust Cabernet Sauvignons. The pairings were a revelation, showcasing how the subtle sweetness and delicate texture of pears could enhance the nuanced profiles of Chateau Ste. Michelle’s offerings, creating a harmonious dance between food and wine that set a high bar for the rest of the tasting.
The Gem of Oregon: Willamette Valley Wines at Feast Portland
The Willamette Valley stands as the crown jewel of Oregon’s wine country, particularly revered for its world-class Pinot Noir. Stretching for over 100 miles, this verdant valley boasts a unique climate and diverse soil types, including volcanic, marine, and loess, which contribute to the distinctive terroir of its wines. The cool, moist springs, warm summers, and long, gentle autumns provide ideal conditions for Pinot Noir grapes to ripen slowly, developing complex flavors and elegant acidity. It’s a region where passion and precision in winemaking converge, producing wines that speak eloquently of their origin. Feast Portland is always an exceptional platform to experience the depth and breadth of Willamette Valley’s offerings.
Among the many delightful moments at the Grand Tasting, this particular photograph, capturing a genuine moment of joy, remains a cherished memory. The 2013 Aubichon Reserve Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley was an absolute standout. This wine was everything one could hope for in a premium Oregon Pinot: a lovely, luscious expression, brimming with notes of ripe red cherries, a hint of forest floor, and a silky-smooth finish that lingered beautifully. Its elegant structure and vibrant acidity made it incredibly appealing. The woman’s radiant expression in the photo perfectly mirrors the pure bliss this wine evoked. I may not recall the exact joke that sparked our laughter, but her happiness is a vivid reminder of the sheer pleasure found in a truly exceptional glass of Pinot Noir.
Dobbes Family Estate Winery always brings a welcoming presence to Feast Portland, and 2016 was no different. They showcased not only their distinguished signature wines under the Dobbes label but also their approachable and beloved everyday Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir under the Wines by Joe label. These wines are crafted to be enjoyed regularly, offering excellent quality and value, making them perfect for any occasion. Beyond the delicious sips, the Dobbes team captivated attendees with their vibrant energy, offering cool temporary tattoos and an abundance of genuine smiles. The warmth and hospitality of the folks at Dobbes truly make every interaction a memorable one.
Cristom Vineyards, renowned for its commitment to biodynamic farming and single-vineyard expressions of Pinot Noir, was generously pouring three different iterations of their signature grape at the Grand Tasting. Each offered a nuanced glimpse into the unique characteristics of their distinct vineyard sites. To be completely honest, by this point in the Grand Tasting, with so many exceptional wines vying for attention, my detailed note-taking had given way to pure enjoyment. I’ve entirely forgotten which of the three Pinots stood out as my ultimate favorite. But perhaps that’s the best kind of problem to have, isn’t it? It simply means I have a delightful reason to plan a visit to their winery and re-taste them all, a journey I wholeheartedly recommend to any fellow wine lover!
My admiration for Maysara Vineyard Pinot Noirs runs deep. Their wines, recognized for their biodynamic farming practices and profound sense of place, are frequently found on the wine lists of many of Portland’s finest restaurants, a testament to their consistent quality and appeal. Their flagship Pinot, the Jamseed Pinot Noir, is particularly exceptional, and the 2012 vintage I tasted at Feast Portland was nothing short of AMAZING – rich, complex, and beautifully structured. While I cherish every sip I find in the city, I’m truly determined to make a pilgrimage out to their stunning winery in McMinnville. It’s a region bursting with top-tier wineries, and Maysara promises an immersive experience into the world of truly sustainable and soulful winemaking.
As longtime club members, my husband and I hold a special affection for Ponzi Vineyards, a true pioneer and one of Oregon’s oldest and most respected wineries. Their dedication to crafting exceptional wines is evident in every bottle. Their Pinot Noirs are consistently delicious, offering elegance, depth, and a vibrant fruit profile that beautifully expresses the Willamette Valley terroir. Beyond their renowned Pinots, I absolutely adore their unique Cin Cin wine, a delightful sparkling blend that’s perfect for any celebration, big or small. For those looking to experience the magic firsthand, Ponzi boasts a fabulous tasting room in Sherwood, Oregon. It features abundant outdoor and indoor seating, complete with bocce ball courts and breathtaking views of their meticulously tended vineyards, creating an idyllic setting for a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting.
We are also proud wine club members at Stoller Family Estate, a testament to our deep appreciation for their consistently outstanding wines. While I’m intimately familiar with their portfolio, it never hurts to re-taste, just in case things have evolved! Stoller is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, being the first LEED Gold certified winery in the world. Their unoaked Chardonnay is a particular favorite of mine in the Willamette Valley, offering crisp acidity and pure fruit expression without the heavy influence of oak. I also thoroughly enjoy their refreshing Pinot Noir Rosé, a vibrant and versatile wine perfect for warm weather or pairing with a variety of lighter dishes. Every sip reaffirms why we’re such loyal fans.
I was genuinely excited to discover Omero Cellars making an appearance at Feast Portland this year. I had the pleasure of meeting winemaker Chad Stock the previous year, and his innovative and thoughtful winemaking style left a lasting impression. Omero is known for pushing boundaries while respecting the unique terroir of Oregon. While their Pinot Gris is a beautifully crafted wine, offering crispness and aromatic complexity, it’s their Gamay Noir that truly captured my heart. Oregon’s Gamay Noir is an emerging star, offering bright fruit, lively acidity, and a charming freshness that makes it incredibly approachable and food-friendly. Chad Stock’s interpretation is particularly captivating, showcasing the grape’s vibrant potential in the Willamette Valley.
My dear friends at Sokol Blosser were on hand, pouring wines from their popular Evolution Wines line, which I absolutely LOVE. Sokol Blosser is a pioneering force in Oregon wine, known for its commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices, which shines through in the quality of their wines. The Evolution sparkling is, without a doubt, my favorite every-occasion sparkling wine; it’s bright, festive, and incredibly versatile, making any moment feel special. The Evolution Pinot Noir is equally impressive, an excellent red wine to serve with practically any meal, especially as the cooler temperatures of fall and winter begin to set in. Its approachable fruit profile and soft tannins make it a crowd-pleaser and a superb introduction to Oregon Pinot Noir.
Rex Hill Winery holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the first wineries my husband and I frequented when we began our wine tasting adventures in the Willamette Valley. Their estate boasts a truly gorgeous location, offering picturesque views and an ambiance that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Oregon wine country. We even considered it among our top three wedding venues, a testament to its charm and elegance! Rex Hill’s Pinot Noirs have consistently been excellent, showcasing the classic red fruit and earthy undertones typical of the region. I also thoroughly enjoy the crisp and aromatic Pinot Gris produced under the A to Z line, which is owned by Rex Hill, offering another fantastic expression of Willamette Valley’s diverse varietals.
Smoky Delights: Feast Portland Wines at the OMG Smoked Event
The Oregon Media Group (OMG) SMOKED! event at Feast Portland is an experience unto itself, a vibrant evening affair dedicated to all things grilled, smoked, and charred. It’s a sensory feast where the smoky aromas of expertly prepared meats and vegetables mingle with the rich notes of accompanying wines, creating a truly unique culinary atmosphere. While I’ll be sharing a more comprehensive visual recap of OMG SMOKED! soon, for now, let’s dive into a couple of my favorite wine highlights from this fabulous and flavorful evening event.
Naturally, the Oregon Media Group SMOKED! event began with a celebratory pop and a pour of refreshing bubbly! There’s something inherently festive about sparkling wine that perfectly complements the excitement and convivial atmosphere of such an event. It cleanses the palate and prepares it for the rich, smoky flavors to come. It was a pleasure to see familiar faces from the Grand Tasting, with Dobbes Family Estate and Sokol Blosser both making an appearance, offering their stellar wines. Adding an intriguing twist to the beverage offerings, I also had the chance to sample Union Wine Company’s brand new Wine Cooler, an exciting preview of a product set to be released the following year, signaling an innovative direction for the region’s wine scene.
Domaine Serene has carved out a formidable reputation for producing exquisitely beautiful and elegant wines, often considered benchmarks for Oregon Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir they were pouring at OMG SMOKED! was absolutely no exception. This wine embodies luxury, with its sophisticated layers of dark fruit, refined tannins, and a long, graceful finish. It was an indulgent wine that found its perfect match in the equally indulgent, gourmet smoked foods presented at the event. The interplay between the wine’s complexity and the food’s rich, savory notes created a truly memorable and opulent tasting experience, proving that fine wine can elevate even the most robust flavors.
Beyond the Plate: Why We Feast
Amidst all the incredible flavors, delightful sips, and festive atmosphere that define Feast Portland, it is profoundly important to remember the meaningful purpose behind this grand celebration. Beyond the gourmet experiences, there’s a vital mission: proceeds from Feast Portland tickets are dedicated to benefiting Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon. This remarkable organization works tirelessly to combat child hunger across the state, primarily by expanding crucial school breakfast programs. These programs serve as an incredibly effective tool, providing nutritious meals that empower children to focus, learn, and thrive, ensuring that the next generation has the energy and support they need to succeed. Participating in Feast Portland is not just about indulgence; it’s about making a tangible difference in the community.
Continue the Feast Portland Journey
My culinary adventures at Feast Portland 2016 extended far beyond the wines, encompassing a spectacular array of dishes from some of the nation’s most innovative chefs. In my upcoming Feast Portland recap post, I’ll be sharing a closer look at the delicious food that I savored throughout the weekend, offering another perspective on the festival’s diverse gastronomic landscape. For those eager to delve deeper into past festivals, you can explore more of my Feast Portland posts from the previous four years of my attendance on my dedicated Feast Portland page. It’s a treasury of memories and recommendations for anyone planning a future visit or simply curious about this incredible event.
In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you! Have you had the pleasure of trying wines from any of the exceptional wineries featured here? If so, which one stands out as your absolute favorite, and what makes it so special to you? If you haven’t yet explored these vineyards, based on my descriptions, which wine or winery sounds most intriguing and makes you want to uncork a bottle? Share your thoughts and let’s continue the conversation about the wonderful world of Pacific Northwest wines!
Please note: I received a blogger pass to Feast Portland and attended the events featured here as a guest. As always, all opinions and photographs shared in this article are entirely my own, reflecting my genuine experience and appreciation for the festival and its incredible offerings.