Custom Willamette Wine Tours from The Allison Inn and Spa

If you’re staying at The Allison Inn & Spa and love wine, a private, tailor-made tour of Oregon’s famed Willamette Valley is a must. While this isn’t your typical group tasting experience, it’s designed for those who want an immersive, educational day that highlights the best of boutique wineries, spectacular scenery, and authentic local flavors.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized approach means your guide listens to your preferences and crafts an itinerary just for you. Second, the stops include a mix of legendary vineyards and smaller family-run wineries—giving you a taste of the diverse wine scene. Finally, the tour combines excellent value with the chance to enjoy carefully curated tastings and memorable vistas.

That said, it’s worth considering that this is a longer day—lasting around 6 to 9 hours—so it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed pace and are happy to spend a good part of the day exploring. If you’re seeking a laid-back yet insightful adventure with wine lovers, this tour could be just right.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: The tour is tailored to your preferences, making it more than just a drive through vineyards.
• Exclusive Tastings: Visits include 3 to 4 wineries, with some offering behind-the-scenes elements like barrel tastings.
• Spectacular Views: Several stops showcase breathtaking vineyard vistas, perfect for photo ops and relaxation.
• Educational Focus: Guides share insights about the wines, vineyards, and the region’s unique qualities.
• Flexible Schedule: Duration varies from 6 to 9 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace or more in-depth visits.
• Optional Upgrades: You can choose an elevated tasting experience at Bergstrom Wines for an extra special treat.

A Deeper Look into the Experience

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

Starting and ending in Newberg, the tour offers round-trip transportation that takes the hassle out of navigating the region’s scenic drives. The private nature of the tour ensures you won’t be stuck in a large group; instead, you and your companions will enjoy a comfortable, personalized journey.

The Willamette Valley Panorama

The tour kicks off with a drive through Willamette Valley, recently named one of the top 100 places to visit worldwide by Time Magazine. The scenery is truly postcard-worthy: rolling vineyards, lush hills, and charming small towns like Dundee and Newberg. Guests rave about the views, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way the vineyards stretched as far as the eye could see.” It’s a calming, beautiful start to a day dedicated to wine and landscape appreciation.

Granville Wine Company in Dundee Hills

Your first winery stop is usually Granville Wine Company, a boutique winery renowned for both its exceptional wines and its breathtaking views. With a visit lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll get a chance to taste their top offerings while soaking in what some call the “best view in the valley.” One reviewer described it as “a must-visit site,” emphasizing its combination of quality wine and scenery.

Winderlea Vineyard and Winery

Next, the tour heads to Winderlea, where the back deck and tasting room offer some of the most fantastic vistas in the region. The wines are produced from biodynamically farmed vineyards, adding an extra layer of authenticity for lovers of organic and sustainable practices. Expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, with plenty of opportunities for photos and tasting. As one guest pointed out, “Winderlea is where you’ll want to get your pictures,” underlining the visual appeal.

Lunch at Red Hills Market

A highlight for many is the stop at Red Hills Market, a local favorite offering top-notch sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and pastries. The relaxed atmosphere and quality food provide a perfect break in the day, and the market’s gift shop is a bonus for picking up local products. With roughly an hour here, it balances tasting wine with a taste of local culinary charm.

Anderson Family Vineyard

A true family-owned gem, Anderson Family Vineyard is a highlight for those wanting a more interactive experience. The vineyard’s 270-degree views and potential vineyard walk or barrel room tour give you a behind-the-scenes feel. Guests love the intimacy, describing it as “a small interactive wine experience,” and the opportunity to learn directly from the winemakers adds depth to the tasting.

Domaine Divio and the French Connection

Domaine Divio is often singled out as a favorite winery. Run by Bruno, a fourth-generation French winemaker, and recently recognized as Oregon Winemaker of the Year, this stop offers spectacular wines and memorable hospitality. The 1.5-hour tasting includes engaging conversations and a chance to see why Bruno’s wines are so celebrated. Reviewers mention that the experience will be unforgettable, thanks to the combination of people, wine, and atmosphere.

Optional Bergstrom Wines Upgrade

For those who want to elevate their day, Bergstrom Wines is available as an optional add-on. An elevated tasting at their Ekelon tasting room includes chef-created food bites paired with some of the valley’s highest-rated wines. This private tasting, lasting about 1.5 hours, offers not only exceptional wines but also a chance to learn from top-tier staff in a luxurious setting. While it costs extra, many consider it a memorable highlight.

Exploring Dundee and Downtown Newberg

The charming town of Dundee provides a quick peek into the heart of the wine country, with its small population and reputation as a premier Pinot Noir region. Returning through downtown Newberg, you get a chance to see a quaint Oregon town and perhaps plan your evening dinner.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one describing their guide Wes as “professional, warm, and incredibly knowledgeable”. The personalized approach is often highlighted as a major plus, allowing visitors to focus on what interests them most.

The scenery and views are another common theme. Several reviewers mention the spectacular vistas from vineyards like Winderlea and Anderson, making it clear that the landscape is an integral part of the experience.

Wine quality also receives high marks, especially from those visiting Domaine Divio and Bergstrom, with visitors noting the wines are spectacular and the tastings informative and engaging.

Many travelers appreciate the value of this private tour, especially since tastings fees are included in the price. The tour’s flexibility—covering 3 or 4 wineries depending on the pace—means you can customize the experience to suit your taste for relaxation or more in-depth exploration.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Pacing

With a flexible duration of 6 to 9 hours, this tour can be tailored to your preferred pace. If you’re eager to savor each stop, opt for the longer day; if you prefer a quicker, more energetic itinerary, a shorter experience is also possible.

Cost and Value

At $430 per person, the tour offers a good deal considering the private transport, multiple tastings, and personal guide. The inclusion of tastings fees and bottled water adds to its appeal, and the optional Bergstrom upgrade provides a luxurious extra.

Accessibility and Group Size

As a private experience, the tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a personalized day. The pick-up from The Allison Inn & Spa ensures convenience, especially after a relaxing stay.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking about 60 days in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead adds peace of mind for planners.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers who appreciate boutique wineries and scenic landscapes. It’s ideal for those wanting a personalized, educational, and relaxed day with the flexibility to include special experiences like barrel tastings or an upgraded wine and food pairing.

Couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting to combine luxury, nature, and wine without the hassle of self-driving will find this tour a great fit.

Final Thoughts

A private, customizable Willamette Valley wine tour from The Allison Inn & Spa offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, fine wines, and personal attention. The combination of legendary vineyards, intimate winery visits, and the option to upgrade for an extra-special tasting makes it a standout choice for those seeking authenticity and comfort.

Ultimately, this tour provides not just a tasting of Oregon’s wine but an authentic experience that captures the region’s charm, craftsmanship, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Willamette Valley’s remarkable wine scene—and plenty of stories to share.

FAQ

How many wineries will I visit?
Typically, you’ll visit 3 to 4 wineries, depending on the pace you prefer and your interests.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip private transportation is part of the package, making travel between stops smooth and stress-free.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be tailored to your preferences, whether that’s focusing more on certain wineries or including special experiences.

What is the suggested duration?
The tour lasts roughly 6 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tastings fees included?
Yes, all tasting fees are included in the tour price, so there’s no extra cost at the wineries.

What if I want to add an upgraded experience?
You can opt for the Bergstrom Wines elevated tasting, which includes private tastings and chef-created bites, at an additional expense.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as it’s a private tour with flexible pacing. However, it’s best suited for those comfortable spending a full day exploring scenic vineyards and enjoying wine tastings.

This private tour from The Allison Inn & Spa is a fantastic way to explore Willamette Valley’s best wineries, enjoy spectacular views, and learn from passionate winemakers—whether you’re celebrating, indulging, or simply looking to deepen your appreciation of Oregon wine.