Best 5 Wineries in Hood River OR: Top Places to Savor Delicious Wines
Hood River, Oregon, is well-known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and, of course, its wineries. The area has been producing wine since the late 1800s, and it has become a popular destination for wine lovers from all over the world. With its diverse range of wineries, Hood River offers something for everyone, from boutique vineyards to larger estates.
Visitors to Hood River can enjoy a day of wine tasting at one of the many wineries located in the area. Some of the most popular wineries include Evoke Winery, Cerulean Winery, and The Pines 1852 tasting rooms. Many of these wineries offer stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Hood River has plenty to offer.
Overview of Hood River Wineries
Hood River is a beautiful city located in the Columbia River Gorge, a region known for its stunning natural scenery and thriving wine industry. The area boasts a variety of wineries that offer a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience.
The Hood River wineries are known for producing some of the best wines in Oregon. The region is particularly renowned for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which are grown in the fertile soil of the Hood River Valley. The wineries in the area are also known for their stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers, making them a popular destination for tourists and wine enthusiasts.
The wine region of Hood River is home to many small, family-owned wineries, as well as larger, more established vineyards. Each winery has its own unique character and charm, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and discover new wines.
Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual wine drinker, the Hood River wineries have something to offer everyone. From the award-winning wines to the stunning scenery, there is no shortage of reasons to visit this beautiful wine region.
Tasting Experiences
Wine Tasting
Hood River is home to some of the best wineries in Oregon, and wine tasting is a popular activity for visitors. Most wineries have tasting rooms where guests can sample a variety of wines. Visitors can expect to pay a fee for wine tasting, which usually includes a flight of wines. Some wineries offer complimentary tastings for wine club members or if guests purchase a certain amount of wine.
Wine Flights
Wine flights are a great way to sample different wines and compare their flavors. Many wineries offer pre-selected flights, which include a variety of wines that are similar in style or varietal. Some wineries also allow guests to create their own flights by selecting wines from a list.
U-Pick
U-Pick is a fun and unique way to experience wine tasting. Some wineries allow guests to pick their own grapes or other fruits, which are then used to make wine. This hands-on experience is a great way to learn about the winemaking process and gain a deeper appreciation for the wine.
Top Wineries in Hood River
Marchesi Vineyard
Marchesi Vineyard is an authentic Italian winery located west of Hood River. It is known for its Tuscan-style tasting room and Italian varietals like Sangiovese and Primitivo. Their wines have won many awards for their exquisite flavor, and they were named the Columbia Valley Winery of the Year in 2021 by the New York Wine Competition. Visitors can enjoy their wines with Marchesi’s charcuterie boards.
Website: http://www.marchesivineyards.com/
Address: 3955 Belmont Dr, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
Cathedral Ridge Winery
Cathedral Ridge Winery is a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. The winery offers a variety of award-winning wines, including Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also offer a beautiful tasting room with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy a tasting or a glass of wine on their outdoor patio.
Website: http://www.cathedralridgewinery.com/
Address: 4200 Post Canyon Dr, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
Hood Crest Winery
Hood Crest Winery is located in the Fruit Loop area of Hood River wineries. It is best known for its small-batch Cabernet Sauvignon and specialty blends, as well as wood-fired pizzas and fruit-distilled spirits. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their cozy tasting room or on their patio with a view of Mt. Hood.
Website: http://www.hoodcrestwinery.com/
Address: 1900 Orchard Rd, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
Hiyu Wine Farm
Hiyu Wine Farm is a biodynamic and organic farm that produces wine, cider, and beer. Their wines are made from grapes grown on their farm and are known for their unique and complex flavors. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their beautiful tasting room or take a tour of the farm and vineyard.
Website: http://www.hiyuwinefarm.com/
Address: 3890 Acree Dr, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
The Gorge White House
The Gorge White House is a historic farm that offers a variety of wines from local wineries, including Marchesi Vineyard and Cathedral Ridge Winery. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their beautiful tasting room or on their outdoor patio with views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding orchards. They also offer a farm stand with fresh produce and flowers.
Website: http://www.thegorgewhitehouse.com/
Address: 2265 OR-35, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
Featured Wines and Varietals
Pinot Noir
Hood River is known for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world. Pinot Noir grapes thrive in the cool climate and volcanic soil of the region, producing wines that are light, fruity, and complex. Some of the best Pinot Noir wineries to visit in Hood River include Marchesi Vineyards, Stave & Stone, and Cathedral Ridge Winery.
Marchesi Vineyards is known for its award-winning Pinot Noir, which is made from grapes grown in the Columbia Gorge AVA. Their Pinot Noir has a complex flavor profile, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and spice. Stave & Stone also produces a delicious Pinot Noir, which is aged in French oak barrels to give it a rich, smooth finish. Cathedral Ridge Winery’s Pinot Noir is a crowd-pleaser, with a bright, fruity flavor and a hint of earthiness.
Riesling
Riesling is another popular varietal in Hood River, thanks to the region’s cool climate and volcanic soil. Riesling grapes thrive in these conditions, producing wines that are crisp, acidic, and aromatic. Some of the best Riesling wineries to visit in Hood River include Wy’East Vineyards, Mt. Hood Winery, and Hood Crest Winery.
Wy’East Vineyards is known for its dry Riesling, which has a bright, citrusy flavor and a hint of minerality. Mt. Hood Winery’s Riesling is also dry, with notes of green apple, pear, and honey. Hood Crest Winery’s Riesling is slightly sweeter, with flavors of peach, apricot, and lemon.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile grape that can be grown in a variety of climates and soil types. In Hood River, Chardonnay grapes produce wines that are crisp, fruity, and refreshing. Some of the best Chardonnay wineries to visit in Hood River include Phelps Creek Vineyards, Analemma Wines, and The Pines 1852.
Phelps Creek Vineyards’ Chardonnay is aged in French oak barrels, giving it a rich, buttery flavor with notes of vanilla and spice. Analemma Wines’ Chardonnay is fermented in stainless steel tanks, resulting in a bright, crisp wine with flavors of green apple, lemon, and lime. The Pines 1852’s Chardonnay is also fermented in stainless steel, with a light, refreshing flavor and a hint of minerality.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold, full-bodied wine that is popular all over the world. In Hood River, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes produce wines that are rich, complex, and full of flavor. Some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wineries to visit in Hood River include Hood River Vineyards, Cascade Cliffs Vineyard & Winery, and Syncline Wine Cellars.
Hood River Vineyards’ Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in French oak barrels, giving it a rich, smooth flavor with notes of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla. Cascade Cliffs Vineyard & Winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon is also aged in French oak, with a full-bodied flavor and a hint of spice. Syncline Wine Cellars’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a crowd-pleaser, with a fruity, complex flavor and a long, smooth finish.
Syrah
Syrah is a bold, spicy wine that is known for its dark color and intense flavor. In Hood River, Syrah grapes produce wines that are full-bodied, complex, and rich. Some of the best Syrah wineries to visit in Hood River include Domaine Pouillon, AniChe Cellars, and COR Cellars.
Domaine Pouillon’s Syrah is aged in French oak barrels, giving it a rich, spicy flavor with notes of black pepper, clove, and dark fruit. AniChe Cellars’ Syrah is also aged in French oak, with a full-bodied flavor and a hint of smokiness. COR Cellars’ Syrah is a crowd-pleaser, with a bold, fruity flavor and a long, smooth finish.
Activities and Events
Live Music
Many wineries in Hood River offer live music events throughout the year. These events are usually held during the summer months and are a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather while sipping on some delicious wine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music genres, from jazz to rock, while taking in the stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains. Some wineries also offer outdoor seating and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon with friends or family.
Bocce
Bocce is a popular game among winery visitors in Hood River. Many wineries have bocce courts on their property, making it a fun activity to enjoy while sipping on some wine. Visitors can play a game of bocce while taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the company of friends or family. Some wineries even offer bocce leagues and tournaments, making it a great way to meet new people and enjoy some friendly competition.
Hiking
Hood River is known for its beautiful hiking trails, and many wineries offer hiking trails on their property. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike through the vineyards and surrounding forests while taking in the stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Some wineries also offer guided hikes and tours, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Windsurfing
Hood River is known as the windsurfing capital of the world, and many wineries offer windsurfing lessons and rentals. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of windsurfing while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Columbia River Gorge. Some wineries also offer windsurfing clinics and workshops, making it a great way to improve your skills and meet other windsurfing enthusiasts.
Planning Your Visit
Reservations
It is recommended to make reservations in advance to ensure availability and the best experience possible. Most wineries in Hood River offer online reservations, and some require them. Visitors should check each winery’s website to see if reservations are required or recommended. Some wineries may also offer private tastings or tours that require reservations.
Seasonal Considerations
The best time to visit Hood River wineries is during the summer and fall months. The peak season is from June to September, with warm weather and clear skies. Visitors should be aware that September is the busiest month, with harvest season in full swing. It is recommended to plan ahead and make reservations during this time. Winter and spring months can be rainy and cold, but some wineries may offer indoor seating or special events during these seasons.
Location and Directions
Hood River is located in Northern Oregon, approximately 60 miles east of Portland. Visitors can reach Hood River by car or by public transportation. The downtown area of Hood River is home to several wineries, and visitors can easily walk or bike to them. However, some wineries may require a short drive outside of town. Visitors should check each winery’s website for specific directions and parking information.
Unique Features of Hood River Wineries
Family-Owned Wineries
One of the unique features of Hood River wineries is that many of them are family-owned and operated. These wineries have a personal touch that can be felt in the atmosphere, the wines, and the customer service. Visitors can often meet the owners and learn about the history and traditions of the winery.
For example, Marchesi Vineyards is a family-owned winery that specializes in Northern Italian grape varieties. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their award-winning wines while learning about the family’s Italian heritage. Another family-owned winery is Wy’east Vineyards, which has a laid-back atmosphere and allows visitors to bring their dogs and kids into the tasting room.
Award-Winning Wines
Hood River wineries are known for producing award-winning wines that are recognized both locally and nationally. Marchesi Vineyards, for example, was named the Columbia Valley Winery of the Year in 2021 by the New York Wine Competition. Stave & Stone has also won numerous awards for their wines, including a gold medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
These awards are a testament to the quality of the wines produced in Hood River. Visitors can taste these award-winning wines and experience the unique flavors and aromas that make them stand out.
In addition to their award-winning wines, some Hood River wineries also practice biodynamics and permaculture. These sustainable farming practices prioritize the health of the soil and the environment, resulting in wines that are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
Hood River, Oregon is a beautiful destination for wine lovers. With its stunning scenery and high-quality wineries, it’s no wonder that this area has become a popular spot for wine tourism. Visitors can enjoy a variety of varietals, from Italian to Pinot Noir, and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Hood and the surrounding valley.
Marchesi Vineyards is a standout winery in Hood River, known for its Northern Italian grape varieties and award-winning wines. Stave & Stone is another popular spot, offering picturesque views and artisan cheese boards. Visitors looking for a more authentic Italian experience should definitely check out Marchesi Vineyards.
The Hood River Valley is a picturesque region located in the heart of Oregon, USA. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities, from wine-tasting to dining and accommodations. The Columbia River Gorge AVA is also worth exploring, with its unique microclimate and diverse terroir.