Willamette Valley Vineyards: A Journey Through Oregon Wine Country

Celebrated as “One of America’s Great Pinot Noir Producers” by Wine Enthusiast magazine, Willamette Valley Vineyards crafts a diverse selection of exceptional wines.

If you’ve ever journeyed along I-5 between California and Portland, Oregon, you’ve likely noticed the sprawling vineyard nestled on the western side of the freeway, just south of Salem, the state’s capital. Every time I pass by, even on the grayest, drizzliest days, it seems as though the sunlight singles out the entrance to Willamette Valley Vineyards, beckoning travelers towards its inviting tasting room. This winery offers an authentic and unforgettable Oregon wine experience.

The Visionary: Jim Bernau, Founder of Willamette Valley Vineyards

Founded in 1983 by Jim Bernau, Willamette Valley Vineyards stands as a testament to his passion and dedication. Jim Bernau is a respected name in the American wine industry. His contributions were instrumental in establishing the Oregon Wine Advisory Board. He has received numerous accolades for both himself and his exceptional wines. More importantly, Jim Bernau embodies the spirit of Oregon. He has a genuine love for his craft. No matter how large Willamette Valley Vineyards grows, he remains committed to producing outstanding wines. He acts as a responsible steward of the land. He has shared ownership of his vineyards with the community from the very beginning. Ultimately, he wants to create an approachable and enjoyable wine experience for every visitor.

I recently had the pleasure of spending time with Jim Bernau and winery director Christine Collier. I immediately sensed Jim’s passion and dedication to his winery. His enthusiasm shines through in everything he does.

As you can see from the photo, Jim is a captivating storyteller. He can weave tales of Oregon winemaking for hours, holding your attention with every word. This passion is something I deeply admire in Oregon winemakers and founders. Jim, please continue to share your stories; we are eager to listen!

A Symphony of Flavors: Exploring Willamette Valley Vineyards Wines

Willamette Valley Vineyards showcases the best of Oregon, producing exceptional Pinot Noir, Merlot, Malbec, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. The terroir of the Willamette Valley shares similarities with Burgundy, which greatly contributes to the exquisite Pinot Noirs crafted at this winery. The winemakers are commited to highlighting the unique characterisitics of the region’s terroir.

While Pinot Noir often takes center stage, their Chardonnays are equally impressive. On my most recent visit, I began with the 2013 Estate Chardonnay ($30), a beautifully golden, citrusy wine that perfectly exemplifies the quality of Willamette Valley Vineyards’ white wines.

We also had the pleasure of sampling several Pinot Noirs. One standout was the 2008 Willamette Valley Vineyards O’Brien Pinot Noir (the 2012 O’Brien Pinot Noir is available for $100). The summer of 2008 presented a unique growing season, starting cool and wet before transitioning into a long, hot extended summer. This resulted in a Pinot Noir with a bright acidity on the palate compared to other Pinots. Alongside the dark fruit flavors, subtle hints of herbs and spices add complexity. It’s a truly delightful wine, named in honor of Dick & Betty O’Brien, who established Elton Vineyards and have played a significant role in Oregon’s wine history.

Another memorable wine was the exceptionally rich and lavish 1999 Joe Dobbes Signature Cuvee Pinot Noir. Joe Dobbes served as the winemaker for Willamette Valley Vineyards from 1996 to 2002, before establishing his own winery. This signature cuvée from 1999 primarily consists of Pommard clone grapes. It boasts a stunning garnet color and bursts with dark fruit flavors. It was a personal favorite from my previous visit. We also sampled the 2010 Ribbon Ridge AVA Pinot Noir. It is crafted from a blend of grapes sourced from each of the AVAs where Willamette Valley Vineyards cultivates its grapes. Finally, we tasted a barrel sample of the 2014 Elton Pinot Noir. Winemaker Isabelle Meunier finalized the blending of this wine in July, resulting in a refined and graceful Pinot Noir abundant in berry notes. I eagerly await the release of this wine!

The Tasting Bar: A Culinary Journey Through Wine Pairings

One of the unique experiences offered at Willamette Valley Vineyards’ spacious tasting room is the daily pairings menu served at the Tasting Bar. Here, Chef DJ MacIntyre creates exquisite light dishes designed to complement Willamette Valley Vineyards wines.

The 2013 Vintage 40 Chardonnay ($35) – exceptional on its own, but also perfectly paired with Julia’s Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Cream Sauce – was accompanied by a watercress, green apple, and smoked onion Belgian endive salad with a walnut vinaigrette.

One of my favorite pairings was the 2012 Bernau Block Pinot Noir with cedar plank roasted steelhead featuring chanterelle mushrooms, brussels sprouts, jalapeño-garlic bacon, and creamed corn. The fish was expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection. This pairing perfectly complemented this particular Pinot Noir. Delicious!

Urban Bliss Pick: The 2012 Willamette Valley Vineyards Bernau Block

Among the many exceptional wines offered by Willamette Valley Vineyards, my Urban Bliss Pick is the 2012 Willamette Valley Vineyards Bernau Block ($55). This Pinot Noir is exclusively sourced from the first vines planted by Jim Bernau at the estate vineyard.

As you can see in the photo, it exhibits a rich, deep, almost violet color. It is also a full-bodied Pinot Noir compared to other Pinots from the region. Many people notice the minerality of this wine, but it also has a bright finish. I particularly love the intense blackberry and plum notes that you taste. This is an excellent wine to enjoy with a hearty dinner, and a fabulous wine to serve at your upcoming holiday gatherings!

Plan Your Visit to Willamette Valley Vineyards

I highly recommend visiting the tasting room in Turner, just south of Salem. Attend the daily pairings menu, book a private event in one of their beautiful event spaces, or enjoy one of their complimentary winery tours offered daily at 2pm. Experience the heart of Oregon wine country!

Tasting Room Hours: Open Daily 11am – 6pm
8800 Enchanted Way SE
Turner, OR 97392
503-588-9463
Toll free: 1-800-344-9463
www.WVV.com

Willamette Valley Vineyards stands as a beacon of excellence in Oregon’s thriving wine industry. With its commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and exceptional visitor experiences, this winery offers a true taste of the region’s rich terroir and passionate winemaking traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to Willamette Valley Vineyards promises an unforgettable journey through the world of Oregon wine. From the captivating stories of founder Jim Bernau to the carefully crafted wines and delightful food pairings, every aspect of this destination is designed to create lasting memories. So, plan your visit today and discover the magic of Willamette Valley Vineyards for yourself.

In addition to its acclaimed Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley Vineyards also produces a range of other exceptional wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot, and Pinot Gris. Each wine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the unique characteristics of the varietal and the region’s terroir. Whether you prefer a crisp, refreshing white wine or a bold, complex red, you’re sure to find something to suit your palate at Willamette Valley Vineyards. The winery also offers a variety of tasting experiences, allowing you to sample a selection of its wines while learning about the winemaking process.

Beyond its exceptional wines, Willamette Valley Vineyards is also committed to sustainable practices. The winery employs a variety of eco-friendly techniques to minimize its environmental impact. These include using renewable energy sources, conserving water, and reducing waste. By prioritizing sustainability, Willamette Valley Vineyards is ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and bounty of Oregon wine country. When you visit Willamette Valley Vineyards, you can feel good knowing that you’re supporting a business that is committed to protecting the environment.

If you’re looking for a truly immersive wine country experience, consider booking a private event at Willamette Valley Vineyards. The winery offers a variety of beautiful event spaces, perfect for weddings, corporate retreats, and other special occasions. The experienced event staff will work with you to create a customized experience that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, Willamette Valley Vineyards can accommodate events of all sizes. Imagine exchanging vows amidst the rolling vineyards, or hosting a corporate retreat in a charming wine cellar.

For those seeking a more casual experience, the daily pairings menu at the Tasting Bar is a must-try. Chef DJ MacIntyre creates innovative and delicious dishes that perfectly complement Willamette Valley Vineyards’ wines. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that you’ll always find something new and exciting to try. Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad or a hearty main course, the Tasting Bar has something to satisfy your appetite. The knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine to pair with your meal, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

As you plan your visit to Willamette Valley Vineyards, be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the surrounding area. Oregon wine country is home to a variety of other wineries, each with its own unique character and charm. You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. With its stunning scenery, friendly people, and world-class wines, Oregon wine country is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway.