The Best Willamette Valley Wine Tastings and Wineries | Eater Portland

"David Lett, the founder of the Eyrie Vineyards, was the very first person to plant pinot noir in the Willamette Valley in 1965; the Eyrie’s first vintage followed in 1970. Today, David’s son, Jason Lett, is the winery’s owner and winemaker. Pinot noir and chardonnay are still staples at the Eyrie Vineyards, but the winery also makes pinot meunier, trousseau, pinot gris, and pinot blanc, as well as offbeat limited bottlings like a sparkling blend of pinot blanc, pinot noir, and chasselas doré. Though the Eyrie’s wines are grown and made in the Dundee Hills, the tasting room is located in downtown McMinnville, making it an easy stop on the way to local shopping and restaurants, or for those staying in town. Tastings are available by appointment only, Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m." - Katherine Chew Hamilton