Blog, Oregon Wine, Packages & Specials

Hard core shoppers know there are holiday bargains to be found on Black Friday. For many, it is a holiday tradition to wake up before dawn the day after Thanksgiving and advantage of the great deals retailers offer.   Lets not forget one of the perks about visiting Oregon during this time is tax free holiday shopping!

To make shoppers a bit more comfortable, we are offering a special Black Friday Package for $99 that includes an early, on-the-go breakfast. Why wake up early, skip breakfast, and travel to get to your shopping destination?

Here is a guide for travelers to find some popular local spots for holiday shopping! Enjoy!

Bridgeport Village
7455 SW Bridgeport Rd.
Tigard, OR 97224
(503) 968-8940

• Easy-access location just off Interstate 5 on the border of Tualatin and Tigard
• European-style, outdoor shopping area with nearly 500,000 sq. ft. of retail, restaurant and theater space
• Blend of upscale national and local retailers, 10 restaurants, multiplex movie theater with IMAX

Washington Square Mall
9585 SW Washington Square Rd.
Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 639-8860

• Traditional major mall located in Tigard along Hwy. 217 near its junction with Interstate 5
• Built in 1974, expanded and renovated in 2005 to become one of the largest retail centers in the Portland metropolitan area
• Four anchor department stores including Oregon’s largest Nordstrom, 170 distinctive retailers including the West Coast’s only Dick’s Sporting Goods, five restaurants and 11-eatery Food Court
Woodburn Company Stores
The largest outlet center in Oregon with big-name brands and outlet savings at more than 95 stores, including: adidas, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Columbia Sportswear, J.Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike Factory Store, The North Face, Under Armour and more!
Minutes from The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport and Located just 25 minutes south of Portland, off I-5 at Woodburn Exit 271.

Please call the Front Desk directly at 866-968-5757 and ask for the “Black Friday Special” to take advantage of this offer.

Spend Thanksgiving in Oregon Wine Country!  Willamette Valley kicks off the winter wine tasting and the holiday season during the 29th Annual Wine Country Thanksgiving Event November 25-27, 2011. More than 150 wineries and tasting rooms in the Willamette Valley will open their doors for special tastings and holiday festivities. For more information about participating wineries, visit willamettewines.com

To receive a mailer that includes a list of activities at each winery and a touring map, email info-at-willamettewines.com. Please include your mailing address when sending an email request.

Celebrate on your getaway with wine tasting and festivities by reserving your “Wining Encouraged” Wine Tour Package here at The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport. Touring some of the valley’s finest vineyards and wineries and end your adventure with us for a night of relaxing bliss. Our partner vineyards include:

Cooper Mountain Vineyards
Elk Cove Vineyards
Helvetia Vineyards
Kramer Vineyards
Montinore Estate
Oak Knoll Winery
Plum Hill Vineyards
Tualatin Estate Vineyards

This package starts at $169.00, plus tax and includes: (8) wine tasting vouchers to the 4 wineries of your choice (1) bottle of local Oregon wine

To make the most of your Oregon wine tasting experience, follow these great Wine Tasting Tips compliments of Willamette Valley Wineries Association!

• Plan your route ahead. Visit wineries that are in close proximity to limit driving. Call ahead to confirm hours.
• Get a designated driver! For a carefree day of tasting…it’s the prudent thing to do. Take advantage of local tour services that are fun and affordable.
• Avoid wearing any perfume, cologne or heavily scented lotions. It will interfere with your tasting experience as well as the experience of those around you.
• Spit…like the professionals. Or use dump buckets that are often placed on tasting room bars. It’s the cool thing to do. You will be able to taste more fantastic wines.
• Ask a lot of questions. This is your opportunity to educate your palate and learn more about the wine making process. Tasting Room staff are friendly and love to share their knowledge with guests.
• Explore a new wine tasting region. Likely you’ll experience less congestion and you’ll have a great time tasting new wines! Check out our wine tasting routes for some ideas.
• Likewise, try a new type of wine or “varietal” during your wine tasting. You must taste the Valley’s signature Pinot Noirs, but don’t be afraid to try something new. You may like it!
• Visit small wineries and larger wineries to enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences. Chat with winemakers in an intimate setting, taste from the barrel or enjoy some live music and specialty food pairings.
• Don’t miss out on special discounts and offers at wineries during tasting events. And, if you discover a winery you really love, consider joining their wine club. You’ll likely receive discounts, exclusive deals, access to special releases and free tastings.

Thanksgiving weekend is a very exciting time for Oregon wine lovers.  Each year, wineries and vineyards all over the region will open their doors to the public for special tastings and festivities.  We are best known for our Pinot noir,Pinot gris, Chardonnay and Pinot blanc.  This holiday weekend is a wonderful time to experience the many flavors and delight Oregon wine has to offer from more than 160 wineries and tasting rooms

To get the most out of your weekend, we recommend that you do a bit of homework first.  Research wineries, explore wine regions and download maps from the Oregon Wine Explorer and check out this guide to local wineries from  Washington County Visitors Association (WCVA).

Here are some other helpful resources to plan your wine tasting adventure:

Oregon Wine Board – www.oregonwine.org
Willamette Valley Visitors Association – www.oregonwinecountry.org
Willamette Valley Wineries Association – www.willamettewines.com

We also recommend that you visit the vineyard’s site or contact them directly for information about their Thanksgiving Open House Festivities.  Here is a list of some of our local wineries for your convenience.  Please drive safe and enjoy your tour of Oregon Wine Country!

Apolloni Vineyards
14135 NW Timmerman Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 330-5946
www.apolloni.com

• Family-owned winery started in 1999, specializing in traditional Pinot Noir and Italian-style wines
• Follows the practices of the Oregon LIVE sustainable viticulture program
• Open 12 noon – 5:00 pm Friday – Sunday (March – December) or by appointment

Cooper Mountain Vineyards
9480 SW Grabhorn Rd.
Beaverton, OR 97007
(503) 649-0027
www.coopermountainwine.com

• Founded in 1987, first Pacific Northwest winery to embrace biodynamic viticulture (1999)
• First Pacific Northwest winery to produce all wines from 100-percent certified organic and biodynamic estate-grown grapes
• Three tiers of award-winning Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, plus Pinot Blanc and Malbec
• Open 12 noon – 5:00 pm daily

David Hill Vineyard & Winery
46350 NW David Hill Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 992-8545

www.davidhillwinery.com

• Fine estate wines and award-winning port made from Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer grapes; sparkling wine made in traditional French Champenoise style
• 40 acres of some of the state’s oldest vines; tasting in historic 1883 farmhouse with sweeping views
• Open 12 noon – 5:00 pm daily

Elk Cove Vineyards
27751 NW Olson Rd.
Gaston, OR 97119
(503) 985-7760

www.elkcove.com

• One of Oregon’s oldest and most respected wineries founded in 1974; family-owned and operated
• Produces single-vineyard Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc
• · Open 10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily except holidays

Helvetia Vineyards
23269 NW Yungen Rd.
Hillsboro, OR 97124
(503) 647-7596

www.helvetiawinery.com

• Grapevines planted in 1982; Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay wines produced
• Visitor center and tasting room in 100-year old farmhouse of Swiss-German pioneer Jacob Yungen; display of Yungen’s original winemaking equipment
• Open 1:00 – 5:00 pm Friday, 12 noon – 5:00 pm Saturday – Sunday

Montinore Estate
3663 SW Dilley Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 359-5012

www.montinore.com

• 220-acre vineyard established in 1982; certified organic and biodynamic in 2008
• Five estate-grown varietals: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Muller-Thurgau
• Open 11:00 am – 4:30 pm weekdays; 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday – Sunday

Oak Knoll Winery
29700 SW Burkhalter Rd.
Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 648-8198

www.oakknollwinery.com

• First and longest operating winery in Washington County
• Founded in 1970 by Ronald and Marjorie Vuylsteke, now operated by the family’s second generation
• Award-winning Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling Gewurztraminer and Muller-Thurgau
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm daily; weekdays until 6:00 pm May –  September

Patton Valley Vineyard
9449 SW Old Hwy. 47
Gaston, OR 97119
(503) 985-3445
www.pattonvalley.com

• Hand-crafted, estate-grown Pinot Noir wines; certified sustainable farming practices used
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Thursday – Sunday

Plum Hill Vineyards
6505 SW Old Hwy. 47
Gaston, OR 97119
(503) 359-1946

www.PlumHillWine.com

• Family-owned winery producing Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Rose wines
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm daily (starting early 2009)

Ponzi Vineyards
14665 SW Winery Ln.
Beaverton, OR 97007
(503) 628-1227

www.ponziwines.com

• Founded in 1970 by Dick and Nancy Ponzi, pioneers of the Oregon wine industry
• Operated by second generation: Michel, Maria and acclaimed winemaker Luisa Ponzi
• Renowned Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and White Riesling wines
• Oregon LIVE Certified vineyards – the world’s highest standard for sustainable viticulture
• Open 10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily; tours by appointment

Purple Cow Vineyards
52720 NW Wilson School Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 330-0991

www.purplecowvineyards.com

• One of Washington County’s newest wineries producing just 500 cases per year
• Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and unusual grapes such as Marechal Foch and Tempranillo
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday only

SakéOne
820 Elm St.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 357-7056

www.sakeone.com

• The only American-owned saké brewery
• Produces traditional craft saké, fruit- and herb-infused saké and specialty saké
• Only producer of certified organic sake carrying the USDA organic seal
• Leading producer of “Ginjo” (premium) grade saké in the U.S. under its Momokawa label
• First company to bottle a new category of flavor-added saké under its Moonstone label
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm daily; tours available at 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 pm daily

Shafer Vineyard Cellars
6200 NW Gales Creek Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 357-6604

www.shafervineyardcellars.com

• Begun in 1973 by the Shafer family as a solely grape-growing operation; winemaking since 1978
• Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Muller-Thurgau wines
• Open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm daily

Tualatin Estate Vineyards
10850 NW Seavey Rd.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
(503) 357-5005

www.tualatinestate.com

• Established in 1973 – one of the oldest vineyard sites in the Willamette Valley
• Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, plus dessert-style Muscat and Gewürztraminer
• Open 12 noon – 5:00 pm Saturday – Sunday (March – December)

By Appointment or Designated Days:

Alloro Vineyard
22075 SW Lebeau Rd.
Sherwood, OR 97140
(503) 320-5696
www.allorovineyard.com

• Artisan producer of small production, handcrafted wines
• Open to the public at Memorial Day and Thanksgiving holidays and by appointment

Ardiri Winery and Vineyards
35040 SW Unger Rd.
Cornelius, OR 97113
(503) 628-0955
www.gypsydancerestates.com

• Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris wines, plus Pinot Blanc in 2009
• Open by appointment

Beran Vineyards
30088 SW Egger Rd.
Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 628-1298

www.beranvineyards.com

• Limited production of handcrafted Pinot Noir from old vines
• Open by appointment – please call for information.

Freja Cellars
16691 SW McFee Pl.
Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 628-0337

www.frejacellars.com

• Boutique producer of fine artisan Pinot Noir wines

• Open to the public at Memorial Day and Thanksgiving holidays only

Garden Vineyards
12960 NW Dick Rd.
Hillsboro, OR 97124
(503) 547-9046

www.gardenvineyards.com

• Wines available by e-mail request only

• Open to the public at Memorial Day and Thanksgiving holidays and by appointment

J. Albin Winery
19495 Vista Hill
Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 628-2986

·         Open by appointment only

Quailhurst Vineyard Estate
15031 SW Pleasant Hill Rd.
Sherwood, OR 97140
(509) 427-5132

www.QuailhurstWines.com

• Award-winning Pinot Noir, Rose, white varietals and Pinot port wines made from French wine grapes with traditional French wine-making methods

• Open to the public at Memorial Day and Thanksgiving holidays and by appointment

Traveling during the holidays can be exciting, eventful, memorable and a good time to reconnect with your loved ones- without worrying about the cooking.  I came across this article on OregonLive.com and wanted to share with our guests.  We wish you a very happy Thanksgiving and hope that you will let us know if there is ever anything else we can do to make your stay more comfortable.

Eating out on Thanksgiving – Restaurants open in Portland By Alley Hector, OregonLive.com

Not all of us want to deal with the family drama that generally ensues when Grandma and little sis’, who recently became vegan, fight over the 12 lb bird on the table. Leave the stress behind and let yourself be served.

Thankfully, many Portland area restaurants are open for Thanksgiving. Generally, you’ll to have to shell out a few bucks and make reservations as soon as possible. Here are some recommendations. Post yours below.

Jake’s Thanksgiving Buffet at the Governor Hotel
All McCormick & Schmick’s restaurants will be open for your seafood needs but if you want a buffet that will surely send you into a tryptophan coma, head out to the Governor Hotel (614 SW 11th Ave., 503-224-3400). Reservations begin at 11 am and end at 3:30 pm. $29.95 adults, $7.95 children 6-12, 5 and younger free. Call 503-241-2125 to make your reservation.

Rheinlander German Restaurant
Nothing says Thanksgiving like lederhosen. Special (meaning traditional) Dinner served 11 am-8 pm, reservations recommended.

The Heathman
This pricey Portland staple is a nice sit-down option that will please every member of the classy family. Prix fixe dining room service 11 am-9 pm. Holiday buffet 11:30 am-6 pm. The Heathman, 1001 SW Broadway., 503-790-7752. $46.50 per person ($18 for kids under 12). Call to reserve seats.

View Point Inn
For a more intimate dinner outside the city, the View Point Inn to the east with a panoramic Columbia River Gorge view is the place. And when you’ve stuffed yourself silly, you can just nab a room. At $65 a person it’s not the most frugal option, but the menu takes the traditional fare and adds significant flair, which should be worth the extra cash. View Point Inn is on the Historic Columbia River Highway, 503-695-5811.

Thanksgiving at McMenamins
Local favorites McMenamins will have a plethora of buffets at all their major locations. And at $24 per adult they’re really quite the bargain. Perhaps not as fancy as other restaurants, McMenamins always provides a warm atmosphere and plenty of room for the kids to run around in. 1 pm ’til 7 pm; reservations required | $23.95 adults; $18.95 senior; $11.95 kids 6-12; free for kids 5 and under | All ages welcome

For more recommendations visit the folks of Willamette Week, Open Table and Gayot.