This site developed by Big Blend Magazine™. copyrighted since 1998. No part of it may be reproduced for any reason, with out written permission from Big Blend Magazine, P.O. Box 90153, Tucson, AZ 85752. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily that of this publication or any of its staff. We reserve the right to edit submittals. All subject matter is intended for general information only and not to be take as personal advice in any matter. Although every effort is made to be accurate, we cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies or plagiarized copy submitted to us by advertisers or contributors.

Big Blend Magazines          Big Blend Radio Shows         Big Blend Marketing        Contact Us

Oregon’s Liquid Assets

A Washington County Food and Wine Tour

By travel writer Linda Kissam 'Food, Wine & Shopping Diva'

Ahhh, if I’d only known what I have been missing, I’d have long ago staked a claim to Oregon's Washington County.  Conveniently situated between Portland and the Oregon Coast, it offers some of the most rewarding and affordable experiences in the Pacific Northwest.  Oregon's Washington County is home to the wine country closest to Portland.

It showcases more than 25 wineries. An exquisite glass of Pinot (or Riesling or Syrah...) awaits you, surrounded by the landscape of vineyards, wineries and tasting rooms. My overnight stay’s to-do list included a visit to the most amazing wine, Saké and craft beer, tax-free shopping adventure possible. The only challenge was planning how soon I could come back.

Washington County is home to what might be considered “lifestyle centers” where any serious foodie, shopping loving, wine aficionado would be glad to trade her most prized wine glass for. From food and wine, to refreshing Saké, farm fresh food, local jewelry, and premium wines, I spent most of my time whipping out my credit card with a clear war cry of, “I'll take it!”

Here are my recommendations for a quick 2-day trip to discover what this special region has to offer.

Arrival by plane is easy.  Portland Airport has lots of inbound and outbound flights to choose from.  Once you’ve landed it’s a quick (10 to 30 minute) metro, cab or rental car ride to downtown Portland. Try to plan your arrival and departure any time but morning and afternoon rush hour.  If you ignore my advice you’ll be VERY sorry.

Double Tree Inn: Conveniently located in the center of the Portland Metro area, the hotel is within walking distance of the Oregon Convention Center, Rose Garden Arena and Portland Memorial Coliseum. Enjoy free travel on the Portland MAX light rail, directly outside the hotel, or explore the local area via the biodiesel hotel shuttle, which will take you anywhere within two miles of the hotel. Shoppers will love the 3 minute walk to the huge mall.  Rooms are large and well appointed.  Friendly staff, free warm cookie upon arrival. Prices vary by season.  Be sure and check out their special packages.

SakéOne: Tasting room and facility are open 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week, except holidays, and is about 30 miles from Portland.  Tours are available and last about 20 minutes.  Expect to have your ideas challenged about what is and isn’t today’s Saké .  This is the really good stuff.  I was with a group that was treated to a food and Saké tasting.  You'll have your choice of three tasting flights that will include offerings. And, on the third Saturday of each month, they offer Saketini Saturday, a showcasing of sake and mixing cocktails. I loved the samples they served our group.

Montinore Estate Winery: One of the top producers of case wines in Oregon.  Offering Certified Biodynamic wines from 230 acres of grapes.  Open 7 days a week, from 11am to 5 pm. Taste the latest vintage of estate grown and bottled wines while enjoying the expansive views.  All the wines are great, but be sure and try the 2011 Müller Thurgau (white) ($16) and the 2008 Graham's Block 7 Pinot Noir ($40).

Hawks View Cellars: More of a boutique style winery, this facility produces small lot, limited quantity, ultra-premium estate grown Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, as well as wines made from top vineyards in Oregon and Washington. For my taste, the estate grown wines were the standouts. Care is evident in the wines, the tasting room and the beautiful grounds. This is a great place to relax and spend some quality time. It’s about 30 minutes from Portland. The 2011 white Pinot Noir ($26 - Now sold out) made from 100% Pinot Noir fruit was a star.  Hopefully when you go the next vintage will be in stock.

Two Kilts Brewing Company: Now, I am not much of a beer drinker, but this place (located in a strip mall) has the right vision and products to turn this wine diva into a beer babe.  Constantly in pursuit of the finest India Pale Ale and Scotch Ale (all made with local ingredients) they make creative premium brews.  When I was there, they had a Korean Food Truck just outside the door.  The unforgettable pairing of an ice cold, vanilla-laced beer with a spicy Korean taco is a pairing I won’t soon forget.  Owners Chris and Alex are rock stars in the making.  Stop by Monday-Saturday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Ask for a sampler taste.

1910 Main ~ An American Bistro: 1910 Main is owned and operated by chef/owner Kathy Compton. Showcasing local ingredients, Kathy created 1910 Main after 30 years of catering and restaurant experience. Kathy brings a love for great food, wine and company to her restaurant. We were treated to a 7-course winemakers dinner filled with specialty courses such as Gin cured Oregon Coho Salmon Tartar on Crisp Potatoes paired with 2011 Apolloni Sparkling Rose ($29).  Each course was a visual and gastronomic feast for the eyes and tummy.  Despite the fancy food, the restaurant is warm and casual. This is a must-do for dinner.

McMenamins Grand Lodge: After dinner we opted to stay the night at a 77 European-style guestroom hotel in Forest Grove.  One of the most unique lodging facilities I have ever stayed at, with rolling lawns, lush landscaping, dramatic entrances, a movie theatre, a couple of restaurants, small bars and some truly  mesmerizing artwork gracing the hallways. Built in 1922 as a Masonic and Eastern Star home, the Grand Lodge is quite the stately lady. Renovated and opened by McMenamins in 2000, every part of this hotel screams history from the individual room doorways, the hallways, and even the overhead pipes.  Note that there is no air conditioning and shared bathrooms are the norm. Reasonably priced.

South Shore Café: Located in a (slightly leaning) 100-year old clapboard in North Willamette wine country, this is a great place to stop for a fresh generous local lunch and some history chatter. Our group loved the gracious owner.  Her homemade soups, sandwiches and treats brought a collective “ahh” from the group.  Take the time to walk across the street to Smith’s Berry Farm, an upscale garden market filled with local produce, local plants and specialty gift items.

Linda Kissam ‘Food, Wine & Shopping Diva' is a professional travel, food and wine writer based out of Southern California. Through her websites www.WineChixs.com  and www.AllinGoodTaste.info  she specializes in easy, breezy destination stories sharing her favorite things about the places she visits.