At Bells Up Winery, we believe every bottle has a story. For wine writer and storyteller Cori Solomon, that’s exactly what makes a visit unforgettable.
Solomon, an award-winning writer and photographer based in Los Angeles, travels the world seeking out wineries with unique stories and creative sparks that bring her writing to life. In a recent Wine Industry Advisor profile, she was asked: “What’s the best story you have written?” To our surprise, she didn’t reference a grape or a critic’s score—she pointed to an experience, saying:
“I love visiting wineries with unique stories. It makes it easy for me to come up with a creative story angle and express those ‘Wow’ moments I discover while visiting a winery. Dave and Sara Specter of Bells Up Winery in the Chehalem Mountain AVA in Washington’s Willamette Valley certainly fit the bill.”
That’s the kind of feedback that makes our hearts sing.
A Winery That Touches the Storyteller
For Solomon, storytelling isn’t just about tasting notes. She’s drawn to places where people, passion, and place converge—a philosophy we share deeply at Bells Up. From the moment Winemaker Dave and Money Honey Sara opened our micro-boutique winery in the Chehalem Mountains, our journey has been about more than wine: it’s been about purpose, partnership, and presence.
Maybe that’s why Solomon has graciously returned for visits both in person and via video call. She’s featured our wines and tasting experience multiple times (read more here, and here, and here), and has highlighted the following unique attributes of our winemaking philosophy:
- Wine made like music – inspired by Dave’s background as a French horn player, Solomon saw the parallels in how he composes wines: blending clones and barrels like notes in a symphony.
- A creative partnership – Sara’s role as the backbone of the winery impressed her, showing how Dave and Sara’s shared vision elevates every bottle and every guest experience.
- Unexpected varietals – from Seyval Blanc to Schioppettino, Solomon highlighted our willingness to explore and celebrate grapes that surprise and delight.
The “Wow” That Becomes a Story
That’s the magic that Solomon writes about: the WOW moments that come from genuine connection. For her—and for us—it’s not just about what’s in the glass; it’s about the story behind it. Her experience at Bells Up isn’t just become another review. It reflects the soul of our small winery and the intentionality we pour into every vintage.
And that’s exactly the kind of place Bells Up strives to be: not just a winery you visit, but a story you take with you.
Book Your “Wow” Experience Today
To book your private tasting experience—hosted by Winemaker Dave exclusively for one group at a time—call us at 503-537-1328. We are open year-round, including January-March, when many small producers are closed.
