Columbia Gorge Wine Country Driving Tour
Just 45 minutes east of Portland, among the Columbia Gorge’s sheer cliffs, wide stretches of river, abundant waterfalls, and tree-lined hiking trails sit two of Oregon’s 14 official grape growing regions: Columbia Valley and Columbia Gorge. Both wine regions span the Columbia River from Oregon into the state of Washington, and include more than two dozen wineries, 35 vineyards and 19 tasting rooms – all within just a 40-mile span. Here, a two-day itinerary that takes you through Oregon’s side of the Columbia Gorge wine country during this spectacular fall season of Oregon Bounty.
1.
Day 1
Start your day in downtown Portland (aka The Rose City). Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee and a hearty breakfast at one of the participating Oregon Bounty restaurants. Then hit the road – you’ve got a gorgeous drive ahead of you.
A mere 20 miles into your trip you’ll hit the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. And, boy, will you know when you have arrived! The expansive river, sheer cliffs and waterfalls of the Gorge will dominate your views for the next 40 miles. If time allows, take a quick detour to see the magnificent Multnomah Falls. At 620-feet, it’s the second-highest year-round waterfall in the United States.
Continue east to reach the first of the Columbia Gorge’s featured Oregon Bounty wineries, Cathedral Ridge Winery. Here, winemaker Michael Sebastiani hand selects local grapes and turns them into some of the area’s finest wines. Ten to 15 varietals, ranging from Syrah to Pinot Gris to Merlot, are available to sample at their cozy tasting room. While you’re here, have a mid-morning snack (cheeses, salmon, chocolate and nuts are all available). Make sure to ask about their Rockstar Red, and don’t forget to say hello to Rusty, the Black Lab and honorary mascot! (Open daily, 11am to 5pm.)
Next up, head to nearby downtown Hood River, where you’re likely to see a few remaining windsurfers flying across the Columbia River on the famous Gorge winds. Stop at the Sixth Street Bistro for a delicious lunch specializing in local, fresh ingredients. Try their blackened grilled salmon wrap or the bacon and bleu cheese burger with fresh side salad.
After lunch, take some time to walk through the quaint downtown area of Hood River, but try not to dawdle – you’ve got another Oregon Bounty vineyard to visit! Phelps Creek Vineyards is just minutes away, sitting on the west hills in the Oak Grove section of the Hood River Valley. Here, it’s all about grape growing. Robert Morus, Director of Vineyard Operations, has been growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in this location for more than a dozen years. Their tasting rooms sits on the beautiful Hood River Golf Course, just a few hundred yards from the vineyards. (Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 5 pm.)
Call ahead for dinner reservations at another superb downtown Hood River establishment, Celilo Restaurant and Bar. Here, Chef Ben Stenn features a weekly menu of fresh ingredients that highlight the best of what the Pacific Northwest has to offer. He creates such dishes as wild mushroom trout, shellfish risotto featuring Oregon Dungeness crab and Washington mussels, and seasonal desserts including Ginger Pear Cake and so many others. Also, Celilo’s wine list is quite impressive.
There are a number of quaint hotels, inns and bed and breakfasts in the area.
2.
Day 2
After a hearty breakfast of your choice, get back on the road to visit Dry Hollow Vineyards, located in nearby town of The Dalles. This small, family owned vineyard has a brand new tasting room that looks out over the property and has panoramic views of the Gorge. Try their estate Merlot and Syrah, for which Dry Hollow is best known.
Head west, back toward Portland, for the final stop of your wine weekend: Mt. Hood Winery. This boutique winery has a self-described “country-style” tasting room, complete with an outdoor deck and patio overlooking the beautiful Hood River Valley. Mt. Hood Winery uses all local grapes in their delicious Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Port. This month, they’re offering a few Oregon Bounty and harvest related events. Check their website for details.
Alas, all good trips have to come to an end. Extend your trip and stay another night in Hood River, or head on back to Portland, where tax-free shopping, fine dining and more wine tasting await.