10 Best Wineries near Monmouth

“I must admit, I have driven by the sign to this winery dozens of times. But I am always on my way to another winery or going to and from one or another place. For me, it has been a stop that wasn’t.

That changed recently. I had a close relative in town who, while on the plane here, had this place recommended to him by a local. Given that I was the host, and he was my guest, I added this to our weekend list. I am glad that I did.

First thing first, this is a few miles off of 99 . . . and worth every dollar of gas you spend for the detour!!! At first, you aren’t sure you are arriving at a winery. But, as you slowly drive along a gravel road (off one road, that is off one road, that is off 99), you see it: Airlie.

There is the pond with the water feature and dock. There is the rental/performance shed (which is not really a shed) and the vineyard in the background, all bracketed by rolling hills. Once you park in the gravel lot, you take a slow walk up the hill to the actual tasting area. Nicely arranged with covered and uncovered sitting areas, we were met by . . . Mary. Couldn’t find a more gracious or hospitable host!!!

We then settled in with the person who recommended the place, her son, and two friends. What a lovely two-plus hours! We sampled several of the wines, all of which were wonderful (and I even “liked” the Rosé of Pinot Noir). We snacked on meats and cheeses we brought (though there are items available to purchase there too). There were approximately a dozen other people when we were visiting, many with dogs and children, as this is a child- and pup-friendly establishment. Speaking of which, there was Odie. Let’s say this is the “house dog.” I am not a big fan of pets. But I did enjoy watching Odie wander slowly from table to table and then, suddenly (and slowly) launch into a plate of whatever was at nose-level on the table! This happened to us thrice. For our loss? We received a sticker that celebrated the fact that Odie did what he does. Priceless!

As we left with three bottles that we purchased, I thought: “Why oh why, after living here for over twenty years, have I not been here before?” I have no idea. But I want to thank my relative’s new friend for forcing me out of my comfort zone. This is now on my list of places to take out-of-towners when they visit. Sure, there are some other _known_ wineries. Airlie feels like a nicely kept secret that the locals share with you. And, while the valley is becoming less of a secret, I hope this place thrives and maintains its wonderful sense of space and place.

Odie? I am still not a fan of pets. But you are hilarious. Mary? You and your crew have created a truly special place. Thanks for making a fan out of a newbie. I wish you well.“

“Great wines and great live music!“

“We celebrated last weekend at this venue for my daughters baby shower. What an amazing staff, beautiful setting and of course great wines!!
From making the reservation through out the day of the event everyone was so helpful and more than willing to make sure our family and guest had a great time.
We also purchased charcuterie boards that were full of meats, nuts jams, crackers and a good variety of everything.
Thank you Van Duzer (Randy and Erin) and your staff for making our event everything we expected.“

“The music was amazing last night. The environment was clean. Service above par. Taylor did an wonderful job with the pizza. We ordered the one with everything on it. Every level of flavor was distinguishable, balanced and tasty with the most amazing sauce and crunchy crust. I would recommend this establishment.“

“I was traying to find the place but the GPS trow us at the Enola Hills Winery.... Are you guys open to de public? Where is your actual location?
UPDATE: The owner contacted me next day to explain that they sell his product at the tasting room in Eola Hills Winery. Also he sells his products thruout Oregon and other tap houses. I am looking forward to taste one of your ciders soon. Thanks.“

“Redhawk Estate Wines is such a gem! The view is gorgeous, and the entire tasting experience feels relaxed, welcoming, and wonderfully unpretentious. There’s a lovely outdoor area that’s perfect for lingering over a glass, a park area with cool shade for warm days, a patio, plus an inviting indoor tasting space.

The exciting part for me is that winemaker Arron Bell, previous wine maker at Domaine Drouhin Oregon, is now making the wines – and they are priced for great value. I can’t wait to taste how his experience and winemaking style shape this next chapter for Redhawk!“

“Beautiful place. Great wines. Knowledgeable and friendly staff.“

“Outstanding wine and a romantic and magical atmosphere. Cubanismo is such a fun place to hangout and dance with your friends to latin music. We highly recommend Cubanisimo!“

“Let’s me start off by saying two things. First, this is the one and only winery in the valley to which I hold a wine membership. Second, having Renee back is a sign of good things to come.

Ever since I have been coming here (and I am speaking exclusively about the Rickreall property), I have found that, when I take guests, they absolutely love the wine. They also like the tasting room. And the side yard, with the koi pond, and the back yard, with the lawn and seating, remain somewhat underutilized, but wonderful, parts of the property.

The staff? For the most part, great. But, as a person who gets out here infrequently, you notice the turnover. The wine club? Erratic. Sometimes you get updates. Sometimes you don’t. Sometimes wines ship on time. Sometimes they don’t. At times, email communication is direct, spirited, and often. Other times, it is infrequent or confusing at best.

I think the major problem for this property is making it a destination, rather than a place on the way to other destinations. Rickreall is, to be fair, an access point to other areas. Sure, the bright red paint and signage help. But only to a point. A full food program would help (and I get it . . . staffing). Making better use of the outdoor space (which is starting to happen). Better communication with members who bring others who can become members who can then . . . you get my point.

Circling back, on a visit a month ago, I took a long time, out of town, friend (he’s been here nearly a dozen times). The guys behind the counter seemed a bit too casual and didn’t exactly act like they knew what was going on. We both enjoyed a glass outside and had a chat with a couple from Bandon, then moved on. It was fine. Not great. Just fine. Then, on my last visit last week, I brought my cousin with me. He is from out of town and knows a lot about wine (having made wine and worked at wineries in Napa). When he visits, we always stop here. Renee was working. It was like magic! Not only did she recognize my name from my email correspondence, she took an active interest in what we had to say about the winery. Not a feigned interest. A real interest. And, if some of the things we discussed are actually going to happen, it could be a real breath of fresh air for this place.

Wineries are hurting right now, here and elsewhere. This place needs a person—especially in a forward-facing position like managing the wine club and the tasting room—who understands that, responds to fans like me, and works to draw in new customers. I really think Renee can do that.

I want this place to show up on lists that you see in local and national media. I’d love to hear people saying, “I enjoy the wineries near McMinnville and Carlton, but I love that place in Rickreall!” And I will continue to support them. I can’t tell you how many times I have had people over for dinner and, when they take that first sip of a wine from here, they are amazed. Then I tell them about Eola. I spread the word.

So, this is a long way of saying something fairly simple: Renee, thanks for making me feel optimistic again about this place. I am rooting for you! I hope you hire and retain people who love this place as much as you (and I) do.

Those reading this? My comments aren't critical. They are constructive (on Google, no less!). And this place, when it is running smoothly, deserves more than five stars.“

“Lovely staff, love the pond and cozy atmosphere. Nice place to bring family and friends.“