Guided by the wild: A forage-to-table journey with a man named ‘Rooster’
December 17, 2024
1 minute readDiscover wine in Central Oregon
Oregon’s rich landscapes and welcoming climate have fostered a haven for winemakers and oenophiles alike. Oregon’s Willamette Valley has long been celebrated for its exquisite pinot noir. And beyond the iconic pinot noir grape; the region flourishes with other exquisite varieties like pinot gris, chardonnay, syrah, and cabernet sauvignon.
Following Oregon’s thriving winemaking tradition, Bend is emerging as a surprising star in the state’s renowned wine scene. Though younger and less traditional than its beer brewing counterpart, Bend’s wine culture is on the rise. This blossoming scene is attracting both connoisseurs and curious newcomers.
Central Oregon wines offer a distinct twist on the classic grape varietals you might know. Unlike the cool, wet climate of the Willamette Valley, Bend boasts a high desert environment with dramatic temperature swings – hot days and cool nights. This unique geography presents a challenge, but also an intriguing opportunity for local winemakers, especially when working with hybrid grape varieties like Marquette, Frontenac, and traminette. These grapes, specifically chosen to thrive in Central Oregon’s climate, contribute to the development of unforgettable flavor profiles in the region’s wines.
The best way to dive into Central Oregon’s wine scene is by visiting our local wineries, wine bars, and tasting rooms. So, let’s get going and start sipping what the area has to offer!
Vineyards and wineries near Bend
Set against the backdrop of the majestic Cascade Mountains about 30 miles north of Bend is Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards. The winery, named after the famed Three Sisters mountains, boasts breathtaking views and award-winning wines. Their tasting room, framed by majestic views, serves wine by the glass or in flights. You can also choose from a variety of delicious bites, including appetizers, salads, and pizzas. For those interested in learning more about the winemaking process, Faith Hope & Charity also offers winery tours. The vineyard also welcomes families with its friendly atmosphere and hosts a variety of events, including weddings, live music, and even a classic car show.
Maragas Winery bridges the gap between Old World traditions and contemporary innovations in winemaking. This unique approach fosters a connection with wine lovers. Just north of Bend, right off Highway 97, Maragas Winery calls a 15-acre vineyard home. The vineyard has a diverse selection of 35 grape varietals, encompassing both established European grapes and experimental varieties. Savor innovative wines in their inviting tasting barn, while taking in mesmerizing views of Smith Rock State Park. Pair your wines with delicious appetizer plates or cheese and charcuterie boards.
Lava Terrace Cellars began in 2012 in northeast Bend, drawing on the area’s volcanic history. It has matured from its initial five-acre planting to managing 4,800 vines. The vineyard has produced six award-winning wines with local winemaker Kirk Ermisch. The vineyard sits at an elevation of 3,440 feet, growing sustainable hybrid grape varieties. You can explore these unique varietals and sample their wines at the Elixir tasting room in Bend.
Founded by two old Italians, Italo Durighello and Tony Pecolatto, Black Goat Winery embodies the spirit of Italian winemaking with generation-old family techniques. They source select grapes from small farms throughout the Pacific Northwest, handcrafting them into artisanal, small-batch wines. Located in Terrebonne, just 30 minutes north of Bend, Black Goat Winery reflects Central Oregon’s unique terroir. While they don’t have their own tasting room, you can still enjoy their wines at local restaurants and wine bars.
Central Vineyards, celebrated for its sustainable viticulture, offers a diverse range of varietals showcasing the region’s fertile soil and adaptability. While they don’t have a tasting room, wine enthusiasts can discover their unique flavors through local retailers and events. Hand-farming small-batch, low-intervention wines, Central Vineyards epitomizes the essence of the high desert terrain. Rooted in community and sustainable farming, they prioritize the pure experience of Central Oregon grapes and natural winemaking.
Wine bars and wine tasting rooms
Ready to begin your wine tasting journey through Bend? Explore charming wine bars, tasting rooms, and specialty wine shops with distinct ambiances and exceptional selections.
Downtown
Experience the essence of Oregon wine culture at Willamette Valley Vineyards’ Bend Tasting Room & Restaurant. Savor sustainably crafted wines paired with Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine in a cozy atmosphere featuring barrel booth seating and fireplaces.
Looking for a wine shop in Bend with a selection of Oregon’s finest? Good Drop Wine Shoppe offers a vast selection ranging from Pacific Northwest specialties to rare vintage offerings. FERM & fare focuses on organic and responsibly farmed wines. They also serve up flights and small bites for a delightful tasting experience.
Box Factory
Discover Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, where local Oregon and Washington wines await in a cozy setting. Come and enjoy an array of exceptional wines, craft beers, and ciders from the Pacific Northwest, including renowned regions like the Willamette Valley, Columbia Gorge, and Columbia Valley.
Discover the essence of Walla Walla, Washington’s winemaking legacy, at the Bend Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room. Founded by NFL star Drew Bledsoe and winemaker Josh McDaniels, sample their nationally acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and varietals from the Bledsoe Family. Enjoy the spacious barrel-stave marquee setting with a street-side patio in Bend’s Box Factory.
Indulge in acclaimed wines at Stoller Wine Bar’s refined atmosphere. It recently claimed the number two spot for “Best Wine Bar in Central Oregon.”Join them at their centrally located Box Factory venue to savor award-winning wines from their family of brands. And be sure to enjoy delectable plates that are expertly paired with their wines.
Expand your wine horizons with Elixir. They curate a collection of fine international wines imported from all over the world, including Chile, Spain, France, Italy, and Australia. Explore their diverse portfolio at their Bend-based Wine Bar and Tasting Room. Here you can shop and sample selections from their global collection, including their handcrafted wines from Oregon.
The Old Mill District
Step into a vibrant atmosphere at Evoke Winery’s Bend tasting room, the perfect place to savor their award-winning wines. Evoke prides itself on using high-quality fruit from well-respected vineyards throughout the Pacific Northwest. Since 2005, their focus has been on innovation. They offer a diverse selection of wines crafted with the intention of sparking fun and conversation.
Va Piano Vineyards Tasting Room offers a cozy haven where you can enjoy premium wines from this Walla Walla winery. Sip your chosen selection while taking in the beauty of the Deschutes River from the outdoor patio. Explore their diverse wines, from everyday favorites to the exclusive Black Label vintages. Feeling peckish? Indulge in a charcuterie board or decadent chocolates alongside your wine.
Around Bend
Flights Wine Bar provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere ideal for delving into their curated wine flights. Knowledgeable staff are available to guide you through their diverse selection and assist you in discovering new favorites. They offer not only retail sales to bring your finds home but also a delightful dining experience featuring fresh desserts.
Portello Wine Cafe offers a distinctive dining experience in Northwest Crossing. With its cozy living room ambiance, it offers a unique blend of artisanal cuisine and thoughtfully selected wines. Enjoy light bites inspired by Italy, France, and the Mediterranean year-round.
Many of Bend’s wineries and tasting rooms are highlighted Drinkable Diversions stops along the famed Bend Ale Trail. These stops are tailored for non-beer enthusiasts, where you can enjoy cideries, distilleries, kombucha breweries, and of course, wineries throughout the area. As you sip and explore, collect passport stamps from each Drinkable Diversion stop. Once completed, you can swing by the Bend Visitor Center for prizes!
Bend wine month
Join us in savoring Bend Wine Month throughout October, a celebration dedicated to our beloved Pacific Northwest wines. Explore venues offering special pours and pricing for Bend Wine Month. Take a self-guided tour of these wine bars and wineries, enjoying unique perks and passport stamps at each stop.
After experiencing all eight locations, exchange your completed passport for a complimentary GoVino wine glass at any winery. And one fortunate passport holder will receive a curated wine package from all participating Bend wineries. As you dive into this wine-filled extravaganza, remember to keep collecting stamps towards your Drinkable Diversions prize.
From the bustling downtown wine bars to the serene vineyards surrounding the city, Bend has something for every wine lover. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or new to the world of wine, Bend’s diverse wine scene promises a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, let’s raise a glass!
