Private Customized Willamette Valley Wine Maker Tour with lunch

Imagine spending a full day in Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, sipping some of the finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays while being driven comfortably in a private vehicle. That’s exactly what this highly-rated private, customized wine maker tour offers. It’s a chance to personalize your day, visit excellent wineries, and enjoy a relaxed pace with expert guidance — all for a reasonable price considering the quality of the experience.

What we especially love about this tour is its flexibility and the caliber of the guide, Carmine, whose extensive knowledge and genuine enthusiasm shine through. Plus, the included picnic lunch on a vineyard adds a welcoming touch that makes the day feel both indulgent and authentic. The only thing to consider is that this tour requires booking about 67 days in advance, so planning ahead is key.

If you’re someone who appreciates fine wine, scenic landscapes, and a tailored experience without the hassle of driving, this tour could be perfect. It suits wine lovers of all levels, from seasoned connoisseurs to curious beginners eager to learn about Oregon’s celebrated Pinot Noir scene.

Key Points

• Fully private and customizable itinerary tailored to your wine and sightseeing interests
• Guided by Carmine, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience
• Visit around four estate wineries, including top-tier spots and hidden gems
• Includes a gourmet picnic lunch enjoyed at a vineyard setting
• Transportation, bottled water, and photography are all part of the package
• No need to worry about designated driving; transport is included

The Itinerary: What Your Day Looks Like

This tour begins with a pickup in Portland, but the real magic unfolds as you head into the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s premier wine-growing region. Located just outside Portland, the valley boasts over 750 wineries, making it one of the most diverse and vibrant wine regions in the U.S. Known especially for cool-climate grapes like Pinot Noir, the area offers stunning vineyard landscapes and innovative winemaking.

First Stop: A Top-Notch Winery with an Exquisite Facility
You’ll start the day at a winery that’s renowned for its impressive grounds and high-quality wines. This estate is a favorite among critics and visitors alike, thanks to its elegant facilities and scenic surroundings. Here, you’ll taste wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Champagne-method sparkling wine, and a Syrah/Pinot Noir blend. As one reviewer put it, “wines offered include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Champagne-method sparkling wine and one Syrah/Pinot Noir blend.” This place often hosts fancy tastings, and the setting alone makes it worth the visit.

Second Stop: Ribbon Ridge AVA
Next, you’ll visit a winery perched on a spectacular hilltop in Ribbon Ridge. The views here are often described as breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxed tasting. Many visitors enjoy the social vibe, especially if they like Bocce’ Ball, which is often played outdoors on sunny days. The wines are praised for their quality and balance, capturing the essence of Oregon’s winemaking talent.

Third Stop: Argyle Winery – Oregon’s Sparkling Wine Pioneer
For those interested in sparkling wines, Argyle Winery is a must-visit. It’s the only Oregon winery offering a full Champagne-style tasting flight year-round, and it’s historically significant as Oregon’s first producer of sparkling wines made in traditional methods. Expect to sample a flight of sparkling wines, along with tastings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The experience offers a glimpse into Oregon’s growing reputation for sparkling wine excellence, often compared to Champagne, but with a local twist.

Fourth Stop: Dundee Hills Hidden Gem
Situated atop the Dundee Hills, this boutique winery provides stunning views and an intimate tasting experience. They feature aged Pinot Noir, including their 2015 vintage (or similar recent releases), and a tasting flight of multiple vintages. One reviewer mentioned it as “an elite Pinot Noir tasting,” and it’s easy to see why — the wines are exceptional, and the setting is picturesque.

Fifth Stop: French-Owned Winery with a Burgundian Touch
This winery reflects the heritage of Burgundy, France, and offers comparison tastings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from both Oregon and France. Reservation requirements for visits here mean planning ahead, but the experience of tasting side-by-side wines from different terroirs can be fascinating for wine enthusiasts.

Sixth Stop: Small, Quality-Focused Winery in Dundee Hills
This hidden gem is known for outstanding wines and a cozy tasting room. They produce the first plantings of cool-climate varieties like Pinot Noir, as well as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and even Tempranillo. Their wines provide an authentic glimpse into Oregon’s pioneering spirit and innovative approach to viticulture. Many reviewers consider this their favorite stop for value and high quality.

Seventh Stop: Historic Winery with a Culinary Twist
Finally, you might visit a winery that pairs its wines with a farm-to-table, six-course tasting menu during “Farm & Forage” experiences. Sourcing ingredients locally and foraging on-site, the culinary team creates memorable dishes that complement the wines beautifully. This stop combines great tasting wines with a culinary adventure that appeals to foodies.

Throughout the Day
You’ll also enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at one of the vineyard locations, included in the tour price. This feature sets the experience apart from many standard tastings, providing a relaxing and scenic setting for your midday break.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Experience:
Unlike group tours that follow a set itinerary, this private tour is tailored to your preferences. Carmine, the guide, has over 30 years of experience and interacts with you beforehand to incorporate your interests, whether that’s focusing on sparkling wines, Burgundy-style Pinot Noir, or exploring scenic vineyards.

Expert Guidance:
Many reviewers highlight Carmine’s knowledge and friendly approach. One said, “His knowledge and insight for grape viticulture and wine making in general and his extensive knowledge of Oregon wine making in particular made for an awesome educational and fun day.” This kind of expertise enriches your tasting and helps you understand what makes Oregon wines special.

Luxury and Comfort:
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup included, so there’s no need to worry about driving. The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, giving plenty of time to relax at each stop without feeling rushed.

Quality and Value:
While the tour costs $350 per person, the inclusion of four winery visits, a gourmet picnic lunch, and personalized attention offers significant value. The tour’s small-group or private nature ensures a more intimate experience, often praised in reviews as worth every penny.

The Nitty-Gritty Details

This tour is highly booked, typically 67 days in advance, which indicates strong demand and satisfaction. It’s designed for most travelers, with comfortable walking shoes recommended, as some wineries may require a bit of light strolling. The tour is flexible — catering to your needs and preferences — and all activities are private, ensuring a tailored experience.

The tour operates with health and safety as priorities; surfaces are disinfected, masks and hand sanitizer are available, and outdoor tastings are encouraged when possible. This attention to detail provides peace of mind in today’s travel environment.

The complexity of the itinerary means you’ll cover a lot of ground, but Carmine’s guidance ensures it’s manageable and enjoyable. The tour includes bottled water, photography opportunities, and a chance to learn about vineyard practices, winemaking, and regional terroir.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who value a tailored, educational journey over a cookie-cutter experience. Those interested in learning more about Oregon’s Pinot Noir and sparkling wine scene will find it especially rewarding. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups who prefer private outings with expert guidance.

If you’re short on time in Portland but want a comprehensive, scenic, and indulgent day in wine country, this tour offers excellent value. It works well for those who appreciate good food too, thanks to the included picnic lunch and potential for food-wine pairing.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 67 days beforehand, so planning early ensures you secure your preferred date.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worries.

Can I customize the wineries we visit?
Absolutely. The tour is private and tailored to your interests, with Carmine interacting with you beforehand to craft your ideal itinerary.

What types of wines will I taste?
You’ll enjoy a variety of wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, sparkling wines, and potentially other cool-climate varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Tempranillo.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a gourmet picnic lunch is part of the experience, served at a vineyard location amid beautiful surroundings.

What’s the tour duration?
It lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, providing ample time to visit multiple wineries, enjoy tastings, and relax.

Are the tastings indoors or outdoors?
Most wineries offer outdoor tasting areas, and safety measures are in place to ensure a comfortable experience.

The Bottom Line

This private Willamette Valley wine tour offers a rare blend of flexibility, expert guidance, and quality. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Oregon’s wine country at their own pace, with the added comfort of transportation and a gourmet picnic lunch. Carmine’s extensive knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it more than just wine tasting — it’s an educational journey into Oregon’s unique viticultural landscape.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the inclusion of four winery visits, a personalized itinerary, and the small-group feel make it a solid investment for anyone serious about wine or seeking a memorable day in Oregon’s lush landscape.

This tour is best suited for those who value curated experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and want to deepen their understanding of Oregon’s celebrated wines. Foodies, wine aficionados, and curious travelers alike will find something to love here.

In short, if you’re looking for a well-organized, insightful, and indulgent way to explore Oregon’s wine country — with a guide who genuinely cares about your experience — this tour deserves a top spot on your list.