Do you have to swirl the wine? Should you talk about “tannins”? What if you just want something that tastes good and makes a fun day trip?

If you’re somewhere on the journey between sipping from red solo cups and being a wine connoisseur, welcome… you’re in the right place. The Oregon wine scene is buzzing, especially around Chardonnay and Pinot noir, and now is the best time to see what all the hype is about. Although the idea of wine tasting may still seem intimidating, we’ll cover tips, tricks, plans for the day, so your chances of cancelling are zero to none. 

First of all, you’ll want to focus on one area - everything in wine country seems close, but limiting the time in between stops is a top priority. Let’s begin in the Dundee Hills AVA: A friendly, unpretentious, and absolutely stunning wine region that makes flirting with fermentation feel like falling in love.

At a glance, the Dundee Hills is one of the oldest and most established areas in the Willamette Valley, but don’t let that fool you into thinking a day here will be anything less than exciting. This little pocket of the Willamette Valley is the perfect entry point to wine culture without the snobbery. Whether you are visiting for the sips, stories, or scenery, here's how to plan your next tasting day in the Dundee Hills for a fun and memorable afternoon.

Why Choose The Dundee Hills?

Let’s be real, traveling to a new area can be confusing! Good news: Dundee is located just 45 minutes southwest of Portland right on Highway 99 and is well-known as the beating heart of Oregon’s wine scene. It’s known for its deep volcanic soils, rolling hills, and cool climate that gives Pinot Noir its signature silky smooth texture. The area is packed with boutique, family-owned wineries and laid-back tasting rooms that are much more cozy than corporate.

The scene in Dundee is refreshing and open. You’ll see more flannel than fancy dresses, dogs lounge in tasting rooms like it’s their job, and winemakers are present and excited to chat with you about what makes their wine special… without making you feel dumb for asking.

A Day in The Dundee Hills - Three Ways!

There’s no right or wrong way to do a wine tasting day in Dundee, but having a plan is exceptionally helpful. Whether you’re going out with your whole crew, tasting with a partner, or flirting with fermentation all on your own (go you!) here are a few options for whatever vibe you’re after:

1. Purely Flirting

You’re curious about wine but want to take it slow. Maybe one or two tastings max, with plenty of time for relaxing, eating, and soaking in the views.

• Start at: Sokol Blosser - This is one of the OG wineries in the Willamette Valley, and their tasting room feels like a polished treehouse in the hills. The wines under their Sokol Blosser Label are stunning, but if you have the chance to taste any of the Evolution wines, trust me, don’t skip them!

• Midday snack: Head into Dundee Bistro downtown for oysters, burrata, and Oregon truffle fries. This Bistro has been in Dundee for ages and continues to be a local and tourist favorite.

• Laid-back stop: Finish at Durant Vineyards where you can grab a glass and relax as you watch over their vineyard. Afterward, take some time to wander through their olive grove and check out their plant nursery. They even have an olive oil tasting room and gift shop for a little something extra!

2. Getting Serious (About Content)

You want the photo ops, the aesthetic pours, and the panoramic views for your story. The wine is great, but the content you share is everything.

• Start at: Stoller Family Estate - They’ve got a tire swing, lawn games, and an Instagram worthy tasting room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking their incredible property. A glass of rosé on the patio is calling your name!

• Next stop: Argyle - What is wine tasting in Dundee without some bubbles? Get a glimpse of beauty, grace, and Oregon history at Argyle Winery. As a pioneer winery for Oregon sparkling, Argyle is a must visit.

• Snack break: Walk across the street for a wood-fired pizza, sandwich, or a delicious picnic board from Red Hills Market. With all the local goodness, Red Hills makes for an iconic Dundee stop. P.S. Don’t skip the monster cookie!!

3. Really Diving In

You want to know what makes a Pinot Noir “elegant,” and you’re stoked to hear a winemaker talk about fermentation techniques. Here are a few places just for you!

• First on the list: The Four Graces -  Known for crafting single-vineyard Pinot Noirs that show the difference and range of the Dundee Hills flavor profile. The tasting room staff are chill and love sharing all the science behind what you’re sipping on.

• Educational break: Book a tasting at Lange Estate and ask about their unique winery programs. They are family owned and operated, have killer views and will nerd out with you about all things winemaking!

• Optional stop:  White Rose Estate - A small production winery focused on whole-cluster fermentation and minimal intervention. The setting is gothic-chic, (in a literal cave) and the Pinot has a cult following all across the nation.

• End on a High-Note: Whether you’re into local fare, pasta, fish, or a classic burger & fries, Trellis Dundee is the perfect late afternoon stop on your way home. Plus, it’s a hotspot for winemakers, so keep your eyes peeled and you’ll likely see some wine industry celebrities.

Pro Tips for Newbies

You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy a tasting day in Dundee or spend a ton of time planning, but these tips will help you make the most of your day with the least amount of effort:

• Make Reservations- Many wineries require or recommend bookings, especially on weekends. Some offer walk-ins, but spots fill fast. A quick phone call or website visit will save you from disappointment.

• Taste, Don’t Guzzle- If you choose a tasting, you’ll typically receive 4-6 small pours per flight. Take your time. Sip, savor, and maybe even not finish every glass (that’s what the dump bucket is for - don’t be afraid to use it).

• Ask Questions- Winery hosts love curious guests. Ask how a wine was made, what food it pairs with, or even, “what’s your favorite bottle?” You might find your new go-to or get to taste something special!

• Don’t Skip the White or Sparkling- Oregon is famous for its Pinot Noir, but many Dundee Hills wineries make incredible Chardonnay, Rosé, and bubbly. They’re often friendly on the cost side, easy on the palate and perfect for summer sipping on the back porch.

• Stay Safe- If you’re not planning an overnight stay, make sure to have a designated driver or book a wine tour shuttle. Services like NW Wine Shuttle offer fun, safe rides with flexible routes for small or large groups.

Go Ahead, Flirt With Fermentation & Enjoy a Day in the Dundee Hills!

You don’t need a wine degree to enjoy a glorious day in the Dundee Hills. All you need is a little curiosity, good company, and a willingness to get out and try something new. Flirting with fermentation isn't about being an expert, it’s about discovering what you like, having fun, and maybe leaving with a bottle (or three) to remember the day and enjoy with friends this summer. Now that the planning is done, it’s time for you to choose a day, grab some friends, and head out to Dundee!