The Willamette Valley Wine and Cheese Tour, operated by Grape Escape Wine Tours, is a full-day excursion into the Dundee Hills and Chehalem Mountains sub-appellations of Yamhill County, Oregon—two of the most celebrated wine-growing districts in the American Pacific Northwest. Grape Escape has operated guided wine tours in the Willamette Valley since the early 2000s, building long-standing relationships with boutique family wineries and larger estate producers across the region.
The tour departs from Portland at designated pickup points and travels into Yamhill County for approximately eight hours of winery visits and guided tastings. Three wineries are covered, each pouring flights of two to three wines for a total of six to eight tastings across the day. The Willamette Valley is internationally recognized for cool-climate Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, and the itinerary emphasizes estate-poured selections that showcase how the region's volcanic Jory soils and coastal marine air influence its characteristic mineral-driven style. One stop includes an artisan cheese pairing featuring locally made Oregon cheeses selected to complement the Pinot-dominant lineup, along with a charcuterie board or full lunch depending on the seasonal menu.
The tour price of $139 to $175 per person includes round-trip transport from Portland in a comfortable van, all tasting fees, the cheese or charcuterie component, and guide services. Personal wine purchases at each winery are at the participant's expense; the tour van accommodates bottles for the return to Portland. Groups are kept to eight to twelve participants, allowing each guest to engage directly at barrel rooms and tasting tables. Tours run in English, with the guide providing context on Oregon wine industry history, AVA designations, and vintage variation across the Valley.
Dietary substitutions at the pairing stop can often be arranged with advance notice. The tour season runs May through November. Harvest tours in September and October are particularly popular as participants may observe crush operations and active fermentation at some properties. May and June offer lush vine growth with smaller group sizes and unhurried winery access.
What is included
- Transport from Portland in comfortable van
- 3 winery visits with guided tastings (6–8 wines)
- Artisan cheese pairing at one stop
- Lunch or charcuterie included
Good to know
- Operator
- Grape Escape Wine Tours
Location
Tour departs from Portland (various pickup points); ends in Yamhill County
45.2843, -123.0078 View on map
Highlights
- Three winery visits with guided tastings of 6-8 Oregon Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris wines in Yamhill County
- Artisan Oregon cheese and charcuterie pairing included at one winery stop
- Round-trip transport from Portland through the Dundee Hills and Chehalem Mountains AVAs
- Small-group format of 8-12 participants allows direct engagement with estate winery staff
- Harvest-season tours in September and October may include observation of active crush and fermentation
Tips for visiting
- Book harvest-season tours (September-October) several weeks in advance as they fill quickly
- Eat a full breakfast before departure; lunch is included on most tours but timing varies by itinerary
- Bring a light layer as Yamhill County mornings remain cool even in summer
- Most wineries permit bottle purchases; the tour van has storage space for transporting wine safely to Portland
- Inform the operator of dietary restrictions at booking to allow pairing stop accommodations
- Participants must be 21 or older and should bring valid photo identification for each winery visit
Frequently asked questions
Is round-trip transportation from Portland included in the ticket price?
Yes. Transport from multiple Portland pickup points to Yamhill County wineries and back is included in the $139-$175 ticket price. Participants meet the van at designated downtown or inner eastside locations.
How many wines will participants taste across the three winery visits?
Each winery typically pours two to three wines, totaling six to eight tastings across the day. Pours are tasting-sized at approximately one to two ounces each, allowing for a comfortable full-day experience.
Is prior wine knowledge required to enjoy the tour?
No. The guide provides accessible introductions to Willamette Valley AVAs, grape varieties, and winemaking suited to beginners as well as experienced enthusiasts. Questions at every level are welcomed throughout the day.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated at the cheese and charcuterie pairing stop?
Vegetarian alternatives at the pairing stop can often be arranged with advance notice. Participants with food allergies should communicate needs at booking so the guide can coordinate with the winery or caterer beforehand.
What is the minimum age requirement for the tour?
Participants must be 21 years of age or older as all tastings involve alcoholic beverages. Valid government-issued photo identification is required at each winery visited during the tour.