"Visitors don’t wander into The Crick by accident, on some sort of aimless drive through wine country. It’s too far off the beaten path. They come here to see the gregarious and charismatic Faustin, who's proud to push the needle as the first recorded Black winemaker in the state, and relax with wine and friends on the back patio as a constant stream of hip hop music floats over the speakers. Faustin grows about six varietals on his 50-acre property in the hills above Portland, 15 acres of which are under vine. Think northern Willamette Valley classics like Gamay, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and, of course, Pinot Noir. He turns these grapes into highly quaffable bottles only available direct to customers and on the tasting room “playlist.” A tasting costs $15 and includes five different wines. But this is a place for everyone, so if you’re not into wine, there are a several beers available by the bottle, and even pressed Pinot Noir juice on tap for those who want something non-alcoholic." - Danielle Centoni
