Regional writer Aliya Hall filed a report for the travel and tourism website, Hippie In Heels, to help readers discover “The Best Wineries in Willamette Valley“… and we were thrilled to discover we were included!
The article offers a guide to help visitors decide which wineries to visit during their time in the Willamette Valley. Hall writes:
Oregon might be most known for its proximity to beautiful National forests and scenic waterfalls, but for wine enthusiasts Oregon’s reputation for Pinot Noir is on the same level. There are around 700 wineries in the Willamette Valley alone, which can be a little intimidating when you want to plan a wine tasting tour or you’re just passing through the area.
I come from a family of avid wine tasters and my girlfriend is in the wine industry. Suffice to say, I drink a lot of wine! I still may not be able to tell you all the complex flavors that make up whatever I’m drinking, but I can tell you what wineries have stood out to me based on the experience I had tasting there, the atmosphere of the space and the feelings I had trying each wine.
Wine tasting is already pretty subjective, and even if a vineyard has a lot of accolades, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be the right fit for you. Each winery has a different experience to offer and it all depends on what you’re looking for. (And if you don’t actually know what you’re looking for, there’s a place for that too.)
Why Bells Up Winery is a “Best Of” in the Willamette Valley
Hall singles Bells Up out as “best for winemaker interaction.” She adds:
Music lovers will especially enjoy the theme of this winery. Bells Up refers to the lifting of the French horn “bells” to project sound during an intense moment in classical music. Winemaker and owner Dave Specter played French horn when he was younger and calls the winery his “Bells up” moment.
That passion is obvious, especially because each tasting experience is hosted by Specter. It’s a truly unique opportunity to have a one-on-one interaction with the wine maker. Even if you’re a wine novice, Specter takes the intimidation out of learning what is in the glass.
