Portland, Oregon, and the Willamette Valley

Maysara Winery

For those of us that live on the east coast, visiting the west coast is always a stark difference in scenery, from the high peaks to the unforgiving Pacific Ocean. Oregon is known for its sprawling forests, rolling hills, abundant farms, and top-notch vineyards. The city of Portland, Oregon, is an adventure in itself, and the Willamette Valley offers many wineries to visit.
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The City of Roses or Rose City, as the locals call Portland, is a cultural melting pot with many people from all walks of life living here.  The city offers high-end dining, and for those who love street food, visiting one of the 600 food carts is sure to please.  Portland has the most craft beer breweries than any other city in the states.  The city has so much character as far as culture, food, beer and wine, and music that some forget that the city offers one of the best outdoor enthusiast’s recreational areas in the state.  Forest Park is a hidden oasis that offers hiking, biking, and outdoor adventure right in the heart of the city.  Portland also has excellent shopping since there is no sales tax, and you can save on your treasures to bring home.  Portland is also home to the Willamette River that brings you to the Willamette Valley about an hour south of the city where there are several of the wineries; we will be sharing with you.  

After all of the shopping, food, and wine, you will want to rest your head at one of the best luxury hotels in Portland, The Nines Portland.  This hotel is located in the historic Meier & Frank Building in the perfect downtown location.  The Nines is located next to Portland’s Pioneer Square and the MAX Light Rail for easy exploring of the city.  Two dining and bar options speak to global palates, including Urban Farmer, Portland's Steakhouse, that carries a strong emphasis on local, organic sourcing and simple, straightforward preparations. A magnificent contemporary art collection by local artists graces each of the 331 luxurious guestrooms, including 13 suites.

While you are visiting Portland, it will be well worth it to head South for a day. In just over an hour, you will find yourself in the middle of a huge valley nestled between two mountain ranges – home to over 500 wineries. Willamette Valley is Oregon’s wine region, and has two-thirds of the state’s vineyards and has put Oregon on the map when it comes to coveted wines.   The area is recognized for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world.  

We recommend you make a reservation for a private tasting experience at Maysara. This bio-dynamic vineyard uses only natural methods to grow their grapes and believes in giving back to the earth after you take from it. The care that goes into the land turns out the most amazing wines. The Momtazi family created the vineyard with the belief that healthy soil and healthy vines produce superior grapes without the need for added chemicals or man-made products.  The result is a clean, luxurious tasting pinot noir and pinot gris.  

DID YOU KNOW?  Pinot Noir ranks as one of the oldest grape varietals in the world, with a history dating back to the first century!

If you are longing for a taste of Oregon Pinot Noir but can’t be there in person, bring Oregon to you! You can have delicious, high-quality wine shipped right to your door. Check out our favorite picks at Scout & Cellar!