From James Beard Award nominated executive chef Chase Williams (and sous chef Zack Ehrlich), this 10-course tasting menu is presented in a 14-seat open kitchen with atmospheric views of the Dundee Hills as the backdrop. But your eyes will likely be fixed on your plate as dishes like dungeness crab and latke, albacore crudo, and burnt tomato confit are theatrically placed in front of you, with a backstory from Williams and Ehrlich for each along the way.
After a long day of wine tasting there’s only one thing to do: head for the blue Dos Mundos food cart. This Mexican American family-run spot is known locally for its impeccable tacos in large part thanks to its handmade corn tortillas (with fillings like birria, pork al pastor, and chicken tinga). You can also order from a menu of easy-to-devour plates ranging from crunchy tostadas to torta de hamon (a traditional Mexican sandwich). You won’t leave hungry.
With a focus on regenerative farming and small-batch craft, this farm-to-table McMinnville restaurant is a must when visiting the Willamette. Come with an appetite—the menu highlights include comfort bites, including burgers made from grass-fed beef from nearby Source Farms, plus rotating seasonal salads full of fresh greens and herbs. Also of note: the rosé on tap!
Where to Taste
“The Willamette Valley is one of the few places left on the west coast where true cool climate winemaking can occur,” Andy Young of The Marigny tells me (who is also in partnership with Molly Baz for Drink This Wine). The natural winemaker made his first cuvée under the Marigny name in 2015, experimenting with a little bit of carbonic Pinot Noir without sulfur. He describes the natural wine community in the valley as “youthful, spirited, and open at its best,” adding that “the more known these types of winemaking styles become, the more we can champion organic farming, and the cycle repeats itself.” Not all wineries in the region are low intervention like The Marigny, yet a prevailing sense of stewardship to the land does seem to prevail in the Willamette, from biodynamic practices to an emphasis on sustainable certifications like Salmon Safe.
Within the broader Willamette Valley AVA there are 11 nested AVAs, with the more well-known and awarded regions including Chehalem Mountains, Eola-Amity, Dundee Hills, and Yamhill-Carlton. Of course, don’t just let popularity guide your visit. As there are over 700 wineries here, choosing where to go will largely be dictated by your interests. Obsessed with bubbles? Do a tasting at Corollary Wines (known for their all-sparkling program). History buff? Head for Eyrie Vineyards (the aforementioned winery that ranked up there with Burgundy wines in the infamous 1979 and 1980 competitions). Want a wine-paired lunch you won’t soon forget? Secure a reservation for Soter’s much-loved Provisions Tasting. Know that you won’t be able to see and taste it all, which is quite alright as the region has much on the horizon, justifying a return visit. Ahead, a few choice stops to consider.
Photo: Courtesy of Johan Vineyards
