Portland City Guide

This Pearl District restaurant unites Pacific Northwest wines with a menu that changes daily to reflect Chef Thomas Boyce’s innovation and the produce in season. A recent dinner menu included goose prosciutto salad, grilled leg of lamb and shellfish risotto.

The wine list, curated by Sommelier Erica Landon, is extensive and features an ’07 Argyle Pinot Noir, ’09 Adelsheim Pinot Gris and ’07 Domaine Drouhin Chardonnay, all produced in the Willamette Valley.

Bluehour is also known for its modern-classic décor, designed by architect Brad Cloepfil, and its comfort-food bar menu which is served all day. Favorite dishes include the signature spaghetti and a burger with smoked-onion marmalade and white cheddar.

Portland’s annual Indie Wine & Food Festival takes place each fall. The all-day event held in northeast Portland features tastes from craft wineries and the city’s hottest restaurants. While you sip a local varietal, you can talk with the winemaker about the production process.

Most of the wines poured at the event are produced in very limited quantities and aren’t widely available to purchase. The 2011 event included selections from more than 50 wineries in the region, including Dion Vineyard and Brigadoon Wine Company. After sampling the artisan wines, you can purchase bottles directly from the winemaker.

The Central Eastside Arts District hosts a First Friday Art Walk every month from 6 to 9 p.m. More than two dozen galleries and artist studios open their doors and feature wine, music and dancing. Wander into a gallery, have a glass of wine and enjoy the city’s eclectic art scene.

While you’re out and about, you might want to stop in a few acclaimed wine shops in Portland. Vino, Liner & Elsen and Great Wine Buys all feature Willamette Valley wines for less than you’re likely to pay back home.

It’s easy to abandon the city for the quiet of wine country when visiting Portland. For an athletic adventure, sign up for a ride with Pedal Bike Tours. You’ll ride on picturesque country lanes in the Willamette Valley, past vineyards and century-old farms. After the tour, the company will drive you to local wineries for tastings before returning you to your hotel.

For a more traditional wine tour, check out EverGreen Escapes’ Oregon Wine Trail Experience. The tour includes visits to three Willamette Valley wineries. A naturalist guide explains the region’s wine making history, the art of viticulture and Oregon’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Be sure and check out these reviews of Oregon Pinot Noir $35-$45!