A question for the ages…when is the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country? And while every season has its draw, summer in the Willamette Valley is something that everyone should experience at least once. The climate in the Willamette Valley is ideal for growing grapes: mild winters, wet springs, warm summers, and temperate autumns come together for thriving vines. This also translates nicely for our visitors; with severe weather a rare instance, you’re more than likely going to experience a beautiful day during your stay any time of year.
While some may argue that harvest season in the fall is the best time to visit Oregon Wine County, it’s also the most popular, which can also mean crowds and waiting lists. Summer offers the perfect weather for outdoor tastings, live music, events, and so much more! As with any visit to the Northwest, layers are imperative, as even in the height of summer a light jacket is often a welcome addition in the evenings. For those planning a trip to Oregon Wine Country this summer, our Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast is the best place to stay!
Not only is our Inn surrounded by our 50-acre vineyard producing exquisite Youngberg Hill and Bailey Family Wines, but our location on the hilltop gives a unique vantage point of the surrounding valley. This offers our guests one of the most breathtaking views in Oregon (if not the country). Inside, we have nine immaculate guest suites, ideal for romantic getaways or couples trips. You’ll spend your days tasting your way through the valley and your evenings in the lap of luxury. Book your room today!
When is the Best Time to Visit Oregon Wine Country?
If you’ve never been to the Willamette Valley in the summer, this is your year! It truly is the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country for so many reasons. While the weather is a big one, you’ll also find a long list of events at the local wineries and in downtown McMinnville.
Here are five reasons why summer is the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country:
- Most of the Willamette Valley wineries extend their tasting hours during the warmer months. They roll up garage doors, open the patio space and rolling green lawns for picnics, welcome the favorite area food trucks, and offer music and special events throughout the summer. This is ultimately the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country to drink these amazing Pinot Noirs al fresco.
- This is the case at Youngberg Hill and Bailey Family wines; our outdoor area comes to life for wine tasting and soaking up the sun; check out our list of upcoming events here.
- This perfect warm, temperate weather extends to our favorite outdoor activities. You’ll be set to head out on bike tours, hiking excursions, kayaking, and day trips to the Oregon Coast with less worry for rain or windy days. This is by far the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Rosé all day! Summer is the time local wineries break out their best chilled pink drink. At the Youngberg Hill tasting room at our Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast, you’ll find a lovely rosé from our Natasha Block Pinot Noir. It has zesty notes of pink grapefruit and hints of soft strawberry, the perfect drink for summer!
- One thing that pairs well with wine tasting is a little friendly competition! And summertime is perfect for lawn games. Bocce ball, Pétanque, and ladder golf are all favorite warm-weather pastimes. Here’s a list of Willamette Valley wineries offering these activities.
Best Time to Visit Oregon Wine Country for Oenophiles:
While summer is absolutely beautiful in the Willamette Valley, we have to say that harvest season in the Fall is by far the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country if you’re serious about wine. Harvest generally begins in late September and runs through early November. You’ll see the vineyards bustling with crews picking the ripe grapes and filling bins with the deep purple pinot noir grapes. On vineyard and winery tours, this is often the season where you’ll meet the winemakers and even get to participate in crush events around the valley.
Luxurious Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast for Lodging
There’s no single best time to visit Oregon Wine Country to enjoy our Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast! We’re a four seasons destination. The Mariafeld Suite (pictured above), is a beautifully remodeled corner room on the second floor. It has a king bed, gas fireplace, and a two-person double shower bathroom. From the ample windows, you’ll overlook the stunning valley, Natasha, Aspen, and Bailey Block vineyards, as well as Mt. Jefferson. This is a beautiful example of our suites, though each offers a different layout and unique decorative details.
Each morning, included with your room rate, we’ll treat you to a lovely breakfast in our dining room. We use local and seasonal ingredients in our creative and flavorful entrees and baked goods whenever possible. Expect dishes like Pinot poached pears, savory salmon hash, or white chocolate muffins. Always paired with a delicious fresh juice and hot coffee or tea. Add our private breakfast package to your reservation for a secluded breakfast with Champagne.
Whenever you decide the best time to visit Oregon Wine Country is, you’ll want to make our luxurious Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast your home base. From the moment you arrive, you’ll quickly see why we have nearly 500 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor. Take it from one of our recent happy guests: “This is a beautiful place with lovely rooms and a brilliant host team. They also make some gorgeous wines, which helps! This is a bed and breakfast property that feeds you well and sets you up for the day. After that, it’s a great place to strike out from and explore.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves; book your room today!
