When it comes to exploring Oregon’s wine country, gravel roads always add to the excitement; depending on Google Maps’ suggested shortcuts, you may or may not take one on your way to Alloro Vineyard .
The elegant hilltop tasting room (just 30 minutes from Portland) sits on an estate with a villa straight out of Italy and 34 acres of grapes that are turned into pinot noir, chardonnay, riesling, and muscat. Though the vista certainly benefits from smoke-free skies, it’s what’s served inside that makes any visit unforgettable.
City Editor Ben recently tried the Chef’s Tasting, now offered at lunch, Friday through Sunday. The “Midsummer’s Bounty ” menu is replete with locally sourced produce, each dish paired perfectly with a reserve or library wine. The quality makes it hard to pick a favorite , but he can’t stop thinking about the goat cheese agnolotti, prepared with local figs and prosciutto.
Tickets for the experience are $125 (members get a $15 discount).