Divio Estate: A Taste of Burgundy in the Willamette Valley

Domaine Divio: A Burgundian Escape in the Heart of Oregon Wine Country

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Newberg, Oregon, Domaine Divio offers a unique wine experience, blending the essence of Oregon’s terroir with the timeless elegance of Burgundian winemaking. With stunning views and meticulously crafted wines, Domaine Divio is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

Domaine Divio Oregon winery in Oregon's Willamete Valley
The breathtaking views at Domaine Divio in Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

The winery’s motto perfectly encapsulates its philosophy: “Oregon wine by essence, Burgundian wine by style.” This dedication to both local character and classic technique is what sets Domaine Divio apart.

Exploring the Ribbon Ridge AVA

Domaine Divio is situated within the Ribbon Ridge AVA, the smallest AVA in Oregon. This special area, nestled in the Chehalem Mountains and extending from Newberg to Gaston, is home to a select group of 20 vineyards and 12 wineries. The unique microclimate and soil composition of Ribbon Ridge contribute to the distinct character of the wines produced here.

Bruno Corneaux co-owner and winemaker at Domaine Divio
Bruno Corneaux, co-owner and winemaker, bringing Burgundian expertise to Oregon.

The Visionaries Behind Domaine Divio: Bruno Corneaux and André Weil

The driving force behind Domaine Divio is the partnership of co-owner and winemaker Bruno Corneaux and co-owner André Weil. Their story is one of friendship and shared passion, forged nearly 30 years ago in Dijon, Burgundy.

Bruno, a fourth-generation grape grower from Burgundy, first experienced the allure of Oregon during a harvest internship with Domaine Drouhin in 1996. He and his wife Isabel were captivated by the Oregon landscape and resolved to make it their home. In 2014, they found the ideal location: a 23-acre property that would become Domaine Divio. They immediately began construction of their tasting room and planted their first vineyard.

A Commitment to Sustainable Winemaking

Domaine Divio’s vineyard currently comprises approximately 11 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The first harvest from this estate vineyard was in 2018. Bruno and his team are dedicated to responsible land stewardship. They prioritize sustainable farming practices and cultivate their vineyard without irrigation or artificial chemicals, fostering a healthy and balanced ecosystem.

Bruno’s passion for winemaking extends beyond Oregon. In 1999, he embarked on a unique project in the South Pacific, developing the first 10-acre vineyard on the island of Tahiti. There, he successfully produced award-winning wines, showcasing his adaptability and innovative spirit.

The Domaine Divio Winery Experience

Domaine Divio wine wall
The impressive wine wall at Domaine Divio’s welcoming tasting room.

The Domaine Divio tasting room, designed by Bruno himself, is a stunning barn-style building that exudes warmth and elegance. The spacious interior features beautiful wood and stone accents, soaring ceilings, and a grand stone fireplace, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Domaine Divio tasting room bar
Enjoy a relaxed tasting experience at the spacious tasting room bar.

The tasting room bar is thoughtfully designed to provide ample space, ensuring a relaxed and unhurried tasting experience. Guests can savor the wines and engage with the knowledgeable staff at their own pace.

Domaine Divio outdoor seating area
The enchanting outdoor seating area overlooking the vineyard.

The tasting room opens onto a beautiful outdoor space with panoramic vineyard views. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a misty evening, this area offers a tranquil setting to enjoy a glass of wine and soak in the beauty of the Oregon landscape.

Domaine Divio vineyard
The lush vineyards of Domaine Divio, carefully tended with sustainable practices.

A Taste of Domaine Divio: Exploring the Wines

Domaine Divio produces a range of exceptional wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Beurot, and Rosé. Each wine reflects the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley and the meticulous craftsmanship of the winemaking team.

Domaine Divio Chardonnay wine glass close up
The elegant and complex Domaine Divio Chardonnay.

The 2015 Domaine Divio Chardonnay, crafted from Willamette Valley grapes, has earned critical acclaim, receiving 92 points from Wine Enthusiast. This buttery and oaky white wine offers enticing aromas of lemon and toasted hazelnuts, making it a perfect complement to spring dishes like salmon, asparagus salad, and lemon & herb chicken.

Domaine Divio wine lineup
A selection of Domaine Divio’s acclaimed wines.

The 2016 Domaine Divio Rosé, also a Willamette Valley wine, is a delightful expression of Oregon Pinot Noir. With its vibrant flavors of raspberries and strawberries and its balanced sweetness and crispness, this rosé is an ideal choice for warm weather enjoyment.

Domaine Divio red wine pour
The rich and expressive Pinot Noir wines of Domaine Divio.

Domaine Divio showcases its Pinot Noir expertise with four distinct offerings:

  • 2012 Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir ($48)
  • 2014 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir ($48)
  • 2014 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($28)
  • 2014 Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir ($55)

The opportunity to taste the same varietal from different vineyards highlights the influence of terroir on wine. The soil, weather, terrain, and climate all contribute to the unique character of each vineyard’s grapes.

Among the Pinot Noirs, the Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir stands out. It has received high praise, including 95 points from James Suckling and 94 points from Wine Enthusiast. This is a bolder and more lush Pinot Noir compared to many Oregon examples, offering smooth tannins and ripe cherry notes.

Events and Culinary Delights at Domaine Divio

Domaine Divio table setting with fireplace
The elegant setting for events and winemaker dinners at Domaine Divio.

Domaine Divio is an ideal venue for both intimate gatherings and larger events. From Bastille Day celebrations to Labor Day festivities, Domaine Divio events are catered by Chef Christophe Vezinet, known for his exceptional culinary creations.

A media winemaker’s dinner showcased the exquisite pairing of Domaine Divio wines with Chef Vezinet’s cuisine.

Domaine Divio salmon dish
Tian de saumon mariné bourguignon, paired with Domaine Divio Chardonnay.

The dinner began with Tian de saumon mariné bourguignon, a salmon mousse tower with caramelized leeks, salmon spread, and avocado purée, marinated in a citrus and dill sauce. This dish was perfectly complemented by the 2015 Domaine Divio Willamette Valley Chardonnay.

Domaine Divio beef bourguignon
Classic beef bourguignon, paired with Domaine Divio Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountain.

The main course was a classic beef bourguignon, braised in red Burgundy wine and served with fingerling potatoes and spring vegetables. This hearty dish was paired with the 2014 Domaine Divio Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountain.

Domaine Divio dessert pear tart
Pear pouched in Pinot Beurot tarte au gratin, a sweet ending to the meal.

The evening concluded with a delightful pear pouched in Pinot Beurot tarte au gratin. This beautiful pear tart featured a frangipane filling and was poached in Burgundy’s version of the Pinot Gris grape, Pinot Beurot.

Plan Your Visit to Domaine Divio

Domaine Divio rose glass
Enjoy a glass of Domaine Divio Rosé while soaking in the vineyard views.

Domaine Divio is located at:

16435 NE Lewis Rogers Lane
Newberg, Oregon 97132

Contact them at:
503.334.0903
[email protected]

Visit their website: DomaineDivio.com

Hours: Thursday through Monday, 10am – 5pm
Tasting Flight: $15, waived with a bottle purchase or wine club sign up

Domaine Divio offers a captivating blend of Burgundian tradition and Oregon terroir. From its stunning vineyard views to its meticulously crafted wines and exceptional culinary experiences, a visit to Domaine Divio is an unforgettable journey for the senses. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of this exceptional winery.