Eugene is a city in the US state of Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest, lying southeast of the city of Portland. It is at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, near the confluence of the McKenzie and Willamette rivers, about 50 miles east of the Oregon Coast. It’s also a great wine country.
Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, Bushnell University, and Lane Community College. The city is noted for its natural environment, recreational opportunities (especially cycling, running/jogging, rafting, and kayaking), and focus on the arts, along with its green activism.
Long known for counterculture politics, the outdoors and a robust craft beer scene, Eugene may not seem like a destination for wine lovers. But this is a city of contrasts, one which proves that not all wine regions look alike.
The area is a great wine country and the wine industry is thriving.
Surrounded by pine forest and cattle farms, Nike-wearing University of Oregon students drink macchiatos at coffee houses, next-generation hippies sell cannabidiol (CBD)-infused products on the main drag and wine lovers hop on bikes to ride to nearby wineries. Located at the southern tip of the Willamette Valley, Eugene is positioned perfectly for a wine-focused day trip, long weekend or holiday.
The Eugene area is a wonderful place to explore the breadth and depth of Oregon wines and to experience the best of both urban and rural wineries.
This is a roundup of some of the best wineries near Eugene, Oregon you must visit. But first, a little more about the vibey urban wine scene.
Wine Around The City
Eugene’s active urban winery scene is a good place to look for new wine selections. The Eugene Urban Wine Circuit has six wineries in Eugene’s urban core: Eugene Wine Cellars, J. Scott Cellars, Territorial Vineyards, Capitello Wines, Oregon Wine Lab and Noble Estate Winery.
The Oregon Wine LAB features wines by multiple small producers and is a production facility for William Rose Wines; they have weekly events and food carts. Another favourite is J. Scott Cellars, whose astonishing range of excellent wines and fun weekend music make it a great place to visit with friends. Check out the upcoming events on the Eugene Urban Wine Circuit.
The Story Of Pinot Noir In Oregon
The Willamette Valley is the same latitude as Burgundy, France; and shares a similar mild climate aptly suited for growing grapes. Additionally, like France’s Terroir, the Willamette Valley floor is exceptionally fertile. Volcanic rocks rich in iron and magnesium rolled into the valley during the Pleistocene era floods. The resulting red, silty-clay loam known as Jory soil measures four to six feet deep and is unique to the region.
Best Wineries near Eugene
Often ranked as a top wine destination, the South Willamette Valley in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region is crisscrossed with scenic wine trails. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tasting wine along Territorial Highway which runs north to south through the region.
Immerse yourself in the wine country experience and wine lovers can stay in a B&B or Airbnb, small hotel or holiday rental near the vineyards. Taste award-winning wines in tasting rooms overlooking the vineyards just 30 minutes from downtown Eugene.
Here’s 8 of the best wineries near Eugene, Oregon you really should not miss. Check the websites for opening hours and details regarding reservations and tours.
King Estate Winery
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Since its opening in 1991, King Estate Winery has produced exceptional wine, made from grapes grown with sustainable farming methods. They are the largest certified biodynamic vineyard in the US and produce award-winning Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and other wine varietals, including those made with grapes from more-inland Oregon and Washington under their North by Northwest label.
Sarver Winery
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Family-owned Sarver Winery specialises in estate-grown, crisp white wines, earth-driven pinots, and other reds and blends. Their wines pair nicely with the expansive view of the Valley and Three Sisters. Stop by their cosy tasting room for Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Early Muscat, and Gewürztraminer.
Silvan Ridge Winery
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Silvan Ridge Winery is Eugene’s first bonded winery, established in 1979 as Hinman Vineyards. They have become one of the state’s foremost wineries, especially with Juan Pablo “JP” Valot at the helm. Try their Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo blend with the stunning view from the winery as your backdrop.
Sweet Cheeks Winery
Named for the shape of the hills surrounding their vineyard and winery, Sweet Cheeks Winery seeks to create wine that reflects the beauty and bounty of the Southern Willamette Valley. Their tasting room boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a stunning view, and an opportunity to try a flight led by their knowledgeable staff.
Iris Vineyards
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An 870 acre estate with a 43-acre vineyard with 10.5 acres of Pinot gris vines, 3 acres of Chardonnay vines, and 26.5 acres of Pinot noir vines. Three acres are in development which will increase our Chardonnay and Pinot Noir production in the future.
Oregon Wine LAB
Even though this is on the urban wine trail, this is a must-visit. The Oregon Wine L.A.B. is an urban winery and wine bar featuring local wines, along with special selections from all over the world. The venue is modern and relaxed, with Eugene Weekly’s coveted Best Food Cart in Eugene, Da Nang Vietnamese Eatery located right outside. Be sure to check out their current calendar and see what’s happening. They are open seven days a week Minors are welcome in the tasting room and our outside patio but some events are 21 and older.
Capitello Wines
An Oregon family winery with New Zealand roots. Winemaker and owner Ray Walsh makes artisan wines from both hemispheres – reds, whites, and sparkling.
Their tasting room is located in the historic former Lord Leebrick Theatre in downtown Eugene and they are open Tuesdays – to Saturdays.
Territorial Vineyards & Wine Company
Try their Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, early Muscat, and loads of Pinot Noir.
As you can see, Eugene has a thriving and vibey winery scene with cool urban tasting rooms to gracious and well-appointed vineyards and wineries.
Dive in to the best wineries near Eugene Oregon and enjoy.