A Wine-Soaked Weekend in Willamette Valley
Willamette Valley is Oregon’s answer to Napa, but with fewer crowds and more flannel. If you’re looking for a wine-themed getaway that mixes indulgence with just the right amount of responsible decision-making (hello, hybrid rental car), then buckle up, because this trip is all about balancing sophistication and shameless day drinking.
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Landing in Portland: Let the Fun Begin
You fly into Portland, a city known for its craft beer obsession, quirky vibe, and deep commitment to putting birds on things. But you’re here for wine, so you grab your Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid rental (because you care about the planet AND your travel budget) and hit the road.
McMenamins Edgefield
For your first night, you check into McMenamins Edgefield, a former poor farm turned eclectic wonderland of pubs, gardens, and—most importantly—a winery. Their tasting room is a must, featuring their own wines that somehow taste even better when sipped in a building that has a few friendly ghosts. You meander through the property, maybe challenge someone to a round of golf, and then end the night at one of their on-site bars like the Little Red Shed because, well, why not? Better yet, end the day at the soaking pool aka my favorite spot on property!
The Wine Spa
The next morning, you head back to Portland one your way out to Oregon’s wine country for some self-care—because nothing says “I take my wellness seriously” like marinating in wine at The Wine Spa. A facial? Yes, please. A wine soak? Obviously. You leave feeling like a hydrated goddess, ready to conquer the valley’s best pours. I did a wine soak followed by a wine facial and both were delightful. My body was so smooth after the wine soak in the jacuzzi tub.
The Setting Inn
After the most relaxing drive ever (thanks, hybrid efficiency and massaging seats!), you arrive at The Setting Inn, a luxurious boutique hotel right in wine country. The modern farmhouse aesthetic makes you question all your previous life choices—should you have been living in the countryside surrounded by vines this whole time?
All their rooms are for two people and include a breakfast tray in the morning. I stayed here with Noah and it was super peaceful. I loved the game room since the weather wasn’t that great while we were there. Some of the rooms have a soaking tub with bath salts and a nice patio with a great view. The room we stayed in had both. All the rooms have ultra-comfortable Setting Inn King beds, Satellite flat-screen TV’s with NFL Sunday Ticket and HBO, Nespresso coffee, Steven Smith Tea, and plush robes and slippers.
Their private tasting room experience is a highlight, featuring carefully curated wines that somehow make you feel fancier just by holding the glass. While you enjoy your tasting you can play bocce ball or shuffleboard. They also have a giant Connect Four and other board games. You do not have to be staying here to enjoy their tasting room. Book your tasting in advance because there are no walk-ins. The Setting Inn is located at 20300 NE Highway 240, Newberg, OR 97132.
Benza Vineyards
Just a short yet beautiful drive away is Benza Vineyards, a small-production winery with big flavors from its sustainably farmed Laurelwood soil. The intimate setting means you get to geek out about wine with people who actually know what they’re talking about, and you leave feeling like you could totally become a sommelier (or at least confidently fake it at your next dinner party).
Brooks Wines
Next, you head to Brooks Wines, known for its commitment to sustainability and its Riesling game that is, quite frankly, next level. The laid-back atmosphere makes it dangerously easy to lose track of time—and perhaps your ability to stand up straight. The views? Stunning. The wines? Exceptional. The likelihood of you joining their wine club? High.
Wrapping Up: A Weekend Well-Spent
After a blissful weekend of indulgence, you load up the Outlander PHEV and head back to Portland, already planning your next trip. Maybe next time, you’ll explore even more wineries, or perhaps just move here and fully embrace the wine country lifestyle. Either way, one thing is certain—Willamette Valley has officially won your heart (and possibly your liver).
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