Thirsty Explorers are ... Thirsty!
Cherry Hill Winery would be our first stop. After lunch we started out at Dutch Brothers coffee in Dallas, Oregon for a little pick me up before heading out, a little caffeine to start the afternoon was a good idea. Heading North up 99W (runs North and South – go figure) you see the sign to the right along the highway at Crowley Road and off we went. Along the way you will see simple scenic beauty.
God's Beauty Surrounds You
This is the most beautiful drive I’ve taken to a winery. The fields, flowers, and deep green forest surrounding a beautiful blue lake are stunning. The Willamette Valley is absolutely beautiful any time of year, but exceptionally gorgeous in early summer when the vines have begun to grow, and the wildflowers are in bloom. After a few miles another sign appears the winery that takes you down a gravel lane surrounded by everything beautiful. Before you know it, the winery comes into view at the top of the hill.
Next Stop - Cherry Hill Winery &Vino!
Cherry Hill Winery has planted red roses at the beginning of each row of vines. The history behind this is that that the roses grow in the same soil conditions (or terroir) as the grapes. Any pests or diseases will reveal themselves on the roses and can be eliminated before it affects the grape vines themselves. We passed a small setting of cabins near the tasting room and was wondering if I could stay there or rent one of them for the weekend Waking up with a cup of coffee to such an incredible view and setting would be fabulous. After entering you see a glass window into the production area and the tasting room at the end of the hall. We were greeted by Michael, a charming and witty older fellow who I believe is the proprietor.
Delicious Science
Our tasting began with the Blanc de Pinot Noir, it was lovely. The second wine I tasted was the Dijon Cuvee Pinot Noir which is a combination of two different pinot grape clones spliced onto local stock that was developed by the University of Dijon in Dijon, France. It was deliciously rich and smooth. I LOVED it. After that I tasted the Cherry Hill Pinot Noir 2019 and it too had a lovely finish.
This wine tasting room has a comfortable feel. There are cute signs and wine jokes on the walls as well as the history of the wine production in the valley. I really enjoyed my time there. I asked about the cabins. Michael explained to me that if you join the Cherry Hill Wine Club with qualifying purchase, you can rent one of the cute cottages for the weekend and get special discounts and benefits. I didn’t have a way to purchase that much wine but considering the incredible view and setting I will definitely consider it! You can read all about my Oregon wine country exploring on my post Wine Country of the Wilamette Valley!
The Nitty Gritty ~
By car you take 99W (Pacific Highway W) to Crowley Road and follow the signs. Google.com/maps might take you on different gravel roads if you’re coming from the east.
Cherry Hill Winery of course!
Radius Tasting Room– Start every trip here and get the local low-down.
Karma Coffee Bar and Bakery serves up delicious java
Dutch Brothers Coffee -Drive thru’s everywhere
Dallas is the local ‘big town’ besides Salem – Keep it local!
Locals like Taters’ Cafe in Dallas for Breakfast and Lunch
Mexican Take-out is yummy at Lunita’s in Dallas
Love Love Teriyaki Is my GO TO for Bento boxes – DELICIOUS!
North Dallas Bar and Grill is famous for its Broasted Fried Chicken along with a great menu and BAR
Sassy’s Kegs and Eggs – PERFECT
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