Dawn C.
Yelp
Wow, I'm the first to review Benton Lane? What an honor.
I have been a loyal fan of BL since the early 2000s (but the winery's been around since the late 1980s) when I first had a taste of their Pinot noir at the Nye Beach Gallery (see review) in Newport. If ever there was a way to sum up Oregon in a glass, this would be it!
Over the years, I've been able to sample several more of their vintages as a wine club member. Their Pinot gris is my absolute favorite gris around, and in 09 they made their first chard which was, IMO, a smashing success (this coming from a girl who is not that in to Chardonnay).
So go ahead and check with whatever fancy wine pub you need to make sure that BL has the chops necessary to part money from your wallet-- 'cause they've got the cred to back up their claims, for sure. And after you're through, I encourage you to dig a bit deeper and check out their vineyard practices. These are people who truly reflect the spirit (rather than just the letter) of "organic" farming law.
Now let's talk location. BL is situated just outside Monroe, on the south end of Territorial Hwy. The owners have instituted some pretty big changes in recent years (expanded tasting room and patio, new pizza oven, etc), but have done a fabulous job of creating and maintaining the feel of an historic family winery. It's an unassuming spot, with great east-facing views from the patio. A perfect place to relax with friends on a summer afternoon.
BL virtually closes for the winter--with only weekday hours from December - April-ish. But, especially if you're a local, don't let this dissuade you from signing up for their wine club. Seriously, this is my first and has been my best wine club choice. Very easy (1-3 bottles), reasonable (~$60, quarterly) shipments, comprised of only their best offerings. I've never been disappointed. And the 20% discount doesn't hurt either! An excellent introduction to the Oregon wine scene.