Bells Up Winery: A Must-Visit in Oregon’s Willamette Valley

When planning your wine tasting adventure in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley, a visit to Bells Up Winery is an absolute must. This micro-boutique winery offers an unparalleled, personalized experience, showcasing an interesting and diverse selection of wines. You’ll find everything from classic Oregon Pinot Noir to unique and exciting varietals. What truly sets Bells Up apart is the opportunity to connect with some of the most genuine and approachable winemakers you’ll ever have the pleasure of meeting.

I vividly remember my first trip to Bells Up Winery. Navigating the picturesque backroads of Oregon wine country towards Newberg, the anticipation grew with each turn. The final stretch, a gently winding unpaved path, offered breathtaking vineyard vistas that perfectly set the stage for the experience to come.

Upon entering the winery, I was greeted with warm smiles by winemaker Dave Specter and his wife, Sara, the self-proclaimed “Money Honey” and indispensable co-owner. They presented an impressive array of their latest wine creations, ready for tasting and exploration.

What makes that first visit so memorable is that every subsequent experience – and there have been many! – has been infused with the same welcoming warmth and genuine hospitality. While the specific wines on offer may evolve with each season, the constant at Bells Up Winery is the engaging presence of the Specters, their infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to crafting small-batch, high-quality, and intriguing wines.

Wine tasting in Oregon? Check out our comprehensive Oregon Wine Guide.

The Unique Story of Bells Up Winery

The origin story of Bells Up Winery is a compelling narrative best told directly by Dave and Sara Specter, who are natural storytellers with a gift for weaving tales both through their words and within their wines. However, I’ll provide a condensed version of their journey.

Dave Specter’s passion for winemaking began in his Cincinnati basement in 2006. As a corporate tax attorney, he found himself captivated by the intricate process of transforming grapes into wine. After Sara experienced the loss of a close friend and mentor to pancreatic cancer, coupled with Dave’s own work-related health challenges, the couple decided it was time to embark on a new and fulfilling chapter in their lives.

While still working full-time, Dave dedicated himself to studying wine through the prestigious Washington State University enology certificate program. He also gained valuable experience working at a local wine shop and volunteering at Henke Winery under the mentorship of Joe Henke.

After achieving notable success by winning two national amateur winemaking competitions, Dave and Sara made the bold decision to sell their Cincinnati home in 2012 and relocate to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, realizing their shared dream of opening a winery.

The name “Bells Up Winery” was carefully chosen, reflecting two interconnected aspects:

1. The winery’s location on Bell Road.
2. “Bells Up” is a musical term used to instruct French horn players to lift the bells of their instruments upward, projecting the sound with maximum intensity and resonance.

For Dave, a dedicated French horn player for over 20 years, establishing Bells Up Winery represents his personal “Bells Up” moment – a moment of profound self-expression and passion.

Exploring the Vineyard at Bells Up

The land that now encompasses Bells Up vineyard was once a neglected Christmas tree farm, overgrown with withered fir trees and thorny blackberry bushes. The initial vineyard plantings took place in 2014, with the first harvest yielding its bounty in the fall of 2017.

Nestled on a gently sloping, south-facing hillside in Newberg, Oregon, the 9-acre vineyard boasts a diverse selection of grape varietals. Currently, it features multiple clones of Pinot Noir, alongside the Willamette Valley’s inaugural planting of Seyval Blanc. The Specters also cultivate Pinot Blanc and the rare Italian varietal, Schioppettino, adding further depth and complexity to their wine offerings.

With a current annual production of just over 600 cases of wine, the Specters have firmly established their commitment to maintaining a small-batch approach. In a recent webinar, Sara Specter emphasized that even their present production level is more than sufficient, reflecting their dedication to quality over quantity and a balanced lifestyle.

The Bells Up Wine Tasting Experience

If you’re seeking a large-scale winery experience focused on socializing or a raucous bachelorette party wine tour, there are certainly many other wineries to choose from in the Willamette Valley.

At Bells Up, the focus is on providing an intimate and personalized tasting experience. They only accommodate one group at a time, ensuring you receive the undivided attention of winemaker Dave Specter himself. You won’t have to compete for attention or feel overlooked in a crowded tasting room.

This unique and immersive winemaker tasting experience is a rare gem in the Oregon wine scene. It’s perfect for those eager to deepen their understanding of Oregon wines and learn about Bells Up’s distinct approach to winemaking.

Exploring the Pinot Noir Wines of Bells Up

Bells Up Winery wines are exclusively available at their tasting room in Newberg, Oregon. You can also become a member of their wine club or contact them via phone or email to purchase wine for direct shipment.

• Titan Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley): This flagship wine embodies the quintessential characteristics of a classic Oregon Pinot Noir. Light-bodied and fruit-forward, it offers delightful notes of strawberry, raspberry, and subtle hints of earthy mushroom and forest floor.

  Pair with: Air Fryer Salmon Bites or Creamy Vegan Pasta with Crispy Mushrooms

• Jupiter Pinot Noir (Estate Vineyard): In 2019, Bells Up proudly bottled their first 100% estate Pinot Noir, a wine that rewards patience and contemplation. Upon initial opening, it presents vibrant red fruit aromas with a touch of strawberry candy. As it evolves, layers of elegance unfold, revealing secondary notes of stewed berries.

  The structure and finish of this Pinot Noir are truly remarkable. While delightful to enjoy now, it promises to age gracefully over the next 5-7 years.

  Pair with: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon or Air Fryer Whole Chicken

• Candide Reserve Pinot Noir (Zenith Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills AVA): This Pinot Noir, crafted with Wadenswil grapes sourced from Zenith Vineyard in Salem, Oregon, exhibits a bolder, richer profile than many typical Oregon Pinot Noirs. It offers a slightly richer mouthfeel with darker fruit aromas and flavors.

  Pair with: Filipino Beef Mechado

Beyond Pinot Noir: Other Red Wines at Bells Up

While Pinot Noir is a cornerstone of the Willamette Valley, Bells Up offers alternatives to awaken your palate with a Syrah and a Cabernet Sauvignon. Both are aged for 12 months in French oak barrels.

• Firebird Syrah (Summit View Vineyard Walla Walla Valley AVA): A Syrah designed for Pinot Noir enthusiasts! Sourced from Summit View Vineyard in the Milton-Freewater region of the Walla Walla Valley AVA, Firebird showcases the characteristic flavors of Walla Walla Syrah, including dark fruits like black cherry, blueberry, and blackberry, accompanied by black pepper and earthy nuances. However, it features lower tannins than a typical Syrah, making it particularly approachable.

  Pair with: Dutch Oven Pot Roast with Vegetables

• New World Cabernet Sauvignon (Summit View Vineyard Walla Walla Valley AVA): This Cabernet Sauvignon, also sourced from the renowned Walla Walla Valley, is a personal favorite among the Bells Up offerings. Envision black cherry, plum, and blackberry bramble notes. This is the perfect wine to savor on a stormy night by the fire. Currently, the New World Cabernet Sauvignon is exclusively available to wine club members.

  Pair with: a classic Beef Bourguignon.

White Wines, Rosé, and Sparkling Delights

In addition to their acclaimed red wines, Bells Up also produces a selection of captivating white wines, a delightful rosé of Pinot Noir, and an exciting new sparkling wine.

• Rhapsody Pinot Blanc: A refreshing alternative to the Willamette Valley’s Pinot Gris dominance, this Pinot Blanc is fermented and aged for six months sur lie, resulting in a fuller-bodied wine. The absence of malolactic fermentation preserves a soft minerality and vibrant acidity.

  Pair with: Beef Pad Thai and an Asian Carrot Cucumber Salad

• Helios Seyval Blanc: Bells Up proudly holds the distinction of having the first and only planting of Seyval Blanc in the Willamette Valley. This French hybrid grape thrives in cool climates and is primarily cultivated in England, Canada, and the Northeastern US. Bells Up has masterfully nurtured its classic qualities here in the Pacific Northwest.

  Helios is a bright, refreshing, zesty, and intriguing white wine. It possesses its own unique character, distinct from both Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Blanc, with captivating tropical notes and a crisp acidity.

  Pair with: Grilled Pineapple Chicken

• Prelude Rosé of Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains AVA): If you appreciate a darker, fuller-bodied rosé, the Prelude from Bells Up is an excellent choice.

  Pair with: This is an ideal wine for hot summer night backyard BBQs, versatile enough to complement grilled salmon or grilled seafood boil packets.

2022 Joy Estate Seyval Blanc Brut: This exciting addition to the Bells Up lineup marks their inaugural sparkling wine! Stay tuned for tasting notes and updates after I have the opportunity to experience it.

The Exclusive Bells Up Wine Club

The Bells Up wine club operates with a refreshing approach that sets it apart from traditional wine clubs, offering exceptional benefits for its members.

Club members commit to just one order of six bottles per year, and you have the freedom to curate your selection by mixing and matching any of their current releases.

Essential Winery FAQs for Your Visit

Are reservations required?

Yes. Bells Up Winery hosts only three tastings each day: 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. As only one winemaker-led wine tasting is conducted at a time, advance reservations are essential. The maximum party size is six people. To book your tasting, call the winery at 503.537.1328, allowing 90 minutes for your private session.

What are the tasting fees?

No tasting fees are charged. However, given that Winemaker Dave provides his full and exclusive attention throughout your appointment, a minimum 3-bottle purchase commitment per guest is required. Shared tastings are not available.

Important Note: A non-refundable deposit of $100 per guest is required in advance via credit card to secure your reservation. The entire deposit amount will be applied to each guest’s minimum 3-bottle purchase; this is a “use it or lose it” policy.

What is the dress code for this winery?

Bells Up maintains a casual atmosphere, typical of most Oregon wineries. Feel free to dress up if you wish, but jeans are perfectly acceptable.

Is there outdoor seating?

Yes, a charming covered patio extends from the winery, providing a pleasant outdoor space.

Is this winery kid-friendly?

Well-behaved children are welcome; please inform Dave and Sara when making your reservation if you will be bringing children.

Is this winery dog-friendly?

Yes! Up to two leashed dogs are welcome per group. Please notify Dave and Sara when booking your appointment if you plan to bring dogs.

May we bring our own food to the tasting?

Outside food is not permitted.

Plan Your Visit to Bells Up Winery Today

I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Bells Up Winery during your wine tasting trip to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Dave and Sara are among the most genuine and welcoming individuals in the industry, and their passion for wine shines through in every aspect of their winery.

503-537-1328
27895 NE Bell Road
Newberg, OR 97132

For more information or to book your wine tasting reservation, visit the Bells Up Winery website.

If you visit, be sure to mention you read about them on Urban Bliss Life! And if you capture any photos, tag us @UrbanBlissLife and #UrbanBlissLife on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook.

Where to Eat Nearby

• Rosmarino Osteria
• Newbergundian Bistro

Planning a trip to Portland, Oregon? Check out the complete Urban Bliss Life Portland Restaurant Guide!

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