Exploring Wine Country's Hidden Gems

Fall is a magical season to explore wine country, and there's no better way to experience its charm than by supporting local wineries and businesses owned by friends and family. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through some beautiful places that hold a special place in our hearts. From savoring the finest wines to relishing delectable seasonal dishes and enjoying luxurious stays, this seasonal guide is one to save.

Wine Tasting Extravaganza:

1. Rodeo Hills: A New Gem from the Etzel Family. Your wine adventure begins at Rodeo Hills, the newest project from our Winemaker, Jared Etzel, along with his wife Erica Etzel, and Eugene Labunsky. Nestled right up the road on Worden Hill, this family affair promises an unforgettable tasting experience. Sip on their exquisite wines, take in the surrounding vineyard landscape, and let AJ guide you (and cook for you if you’re lucky enough to book the Long Lunch!) through their dedication to crafting exceptional wines. Don’t let their stark website fool you— this is the place to be.

2. Sequitur: A True Wine Lovers Haven. For those seeking a top wine country experience combining some of the Valley’s best wine and architecture, Sequitur is a must-visit. This stunning spot is a staff favorite, offering a serene ambiance and an elegant selection of wines. Walk through their garden, take in the beauty of every nook in their tasting room, and savor the wines of our Winemaker’s Dad, Michael Etzel (Senior), and his wife, Carey Critchlow. If you have more time, pop next door at Beaux-Frères for an authentic Oregon experience and taste the beautiful wines of his son and our Winemaker’s brother, Mikey Etzel Jr.

3. Domaine Roy & fils: Where Tradition Meets Elegance. Conclude your wine tasting journey here at Domaine Roy & fils, where you'll find a perfect blend of tradition and elegance. Sip on world-class wines, enjoy panoramic views, and discover the essence of our estate vineyards!

Culinary Delights:

1. For lunch, head to the newly-opened Brick Hall. This culinary oasis is a delightful spot to slow down in a day of wine tasting. At Brick Hall, our friends at Tournant create seasonal magic. Indulge in a spectacular lunch featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the seasonal flavors.

2. Okta: A Dining Experience to Remember. For dinner, make your way to ōkta, recently named one of the top 50 best restaurants in America by the New York Times. Helmed by Chef Matthew Lightner, ōkta is a seasonal progressive culinary experience that brings forth the hidden beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Its innovative cuisine, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service make it the perfect place to end your day on a high note.

3. Be the first to dine at Pinch: an exciting newcomer in the McMinnville dining scene from the folks behind the now-defunct Recipe. Perhaps you're looking for something more casual than ōkta? At Pinch Restaurant, you'll enjoy imaginative bistro cuisine in an informal, hip, and flirty setting.

Luxurious Accommodations:

1. Tributary Hotel: World-class Hospitality. Situated in the charming downtown of McMinnville, this establishment proudly holds the distinction of being Oregon Wine Country’s first Relais & Châteaux hotel. Housed within a beautifully restored century-old historic building, the Tributary Hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a destination restaurant that pay homage to the beautiful Willamette Valley. The best part? All stays include a lavish in-room breakfast from Tributary’s adjoining restaurant, ōkta.

2. The Ground: Replenished by Nature. This newcomer redefines the concept of bucolic bliss. Visiting the Willamette Valley with friends and family? Be sure not to miss their luxurious Farmhouse. Traveling solo or as a couple? Explore their new luxurious bed & breakfast— Inn the Ground. Nestled in the picturesque hillside, you'll have the opportunity to connect with and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including their regenerative farm.

3. Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard: A Wine Lover's Paradise. End your wine country getaway at the Black Walnut Inn, a charming bed and breakfast that caters to wine enthusiasts. With vineyard views and exceptional hospitality, it's the perfect place to bid farewell to your wine-country adventure.

Fall in wine country is a season of beauty, bounty, and unforgettable experiences. By visiting these local treasures, you'll enjoy the best that wine country has to offer while supporting the passionate individuals who make it so special.

Cheers to an adventure filled with wine, food, and cherished memories!