The Champagne Weather Guide to the Willamette Valley 🍾
Bundle up and pass the bubbly.
We learned a new (well, old) term recently that has changed our whole perspective: champagne weather.
A somewhat sarcastic society term used from 1860 onward to refer to bad weather, we're going to embrace this as a good thing and say, "Cheers to that."
There's perhaps nowhere better to enjoy champagne weather than winter in Oregon's Willamette Valley, known for its mist, fog, and gentle rain. Sure, true Champagne has to come from a teensy-tiny region in France (and Lord, are we thankful for that region...), the States boast some pretty brilliant bubbles of their own - much of which comes from the Pacific Northwest.
While the wine categories face some uncertainty due to increased interest in non-alcoholic options, recent growth in the US has been impressive: roughly one-quarter of all adults are now sparkling wine consumers – an increase of almost 10m people, or 17%, in 2019. Champagne, prosecco and other effervescent options used to be seen as a treat reserved for a special occasion – weddings, anniversaries and the like – but young consumers now look at sparkling as an aid to their favorite cocktails (Aperol Spritz, we’re looking at you), a booming brunch option and more. Â
‍So cozy up, throw on your raincoat and raise a glass to champagne weather at these Oregon hotels and wineries:
Every hotel on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Where To Stay
Atticus Hotel
This independently owned and operated hotel in McMinnville, Oregon is the picture of champagne-weather perfection. Located on the wine country town’s main street, the property offers handsome luxury with an emphasis on the arts – the Atticus has an artist-in-residency program that hosts writers and creators. Girls groups love booking the luxury bunkhouse. Â
Rates start at $372. book now.
Inn The Ground‍
This regenerative farm-meets-hotel offers luxurious wine country accommodations and wellness perks like yoga, farm and nature tours, private chef dinners, and – of course – wine tastings and tours with time out in the vineyards to connect with nature in the most fun way. Â
Rates start at $298, book now.
Allison Inn & Spa
The Allison Inn & Spa is the most luxurious choice in all of Oregon’s wine country. Enjoy well-appointed rooms and a nationally-sought after spa with 12 treatment rooms, a fitness studio, an indoor swimming pool, a whirlpool and a pool terrace. Â
Rates start at $525, book now.
Tributary Hotel
The past and present collide at the Tributary Hotel in downtown McMinnville, OR. One of the city's newest boutique hotels resides in a 100-year-old building that has been restored and thoughtfully outfitted with amenities for the modern traveler.
Rates start at $700. book now.
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Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard
Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard is a well-appointed, nine-room inn perched 1,000 feet above Oregon's iconic Willamette Valley wine country region. Its unparalleled location, luxe accommodations and inviting team make it a quintessential Oregon Experience.
Rates start at $450. book now.
Where To Eat & Drink
Argyle Winery
Argyle is known as the pinnacle of Oregon’s sparkling wine producers, earning the distinction of producing the highest-rated sparkling wines outside of Champagne, consistently showcasing the unique character and quality of the cool-climate terroir. You DO NOT WANT TO MISS their all-sparkling flight in their handsome, modern tasting room. It’s worth it.
Sokol Blosser
Set upon a picturesque hilltop overlooking rolling hills of vineyards, Sokol Blosser is the place to visit and sip on their legendary sparklings. Highlights include the 2018 Sparkling RosĂ© of Pinot Noir (a local favorite!) and the 2022 Bluebird CuvĂ©e Brut Sparkling. Make a reservation and clink clink as you enjoy the winery. Â
Anne Amie
Add this vineyard to your list for their 2018 Marilyn Brut Sparkling Rose and rotating flights. And if you happen to visit during the late winter, do not miss out on Bubble Fest – a sold-out annual event that features 28 local sparkling producers, tasty PNW food, music and more. The next Bubble Fest is Feb. 15-16, 2025.
Adelsheim Vineyard
Adelsheim is a seven-time Wine &Spirits “Top 100 Winery” from David and Ginny Adelsheim. While they have their share of pinots, we can’t wait to get our hands on The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Set featuring 2019 Brut Cuvée - Second Disgorgement, 2019 Demi Sec Cuvée - Second Disgorgement, 2016 Blanc de Blancs and 2018 Brut Rosé. For $200, this also makes a great gift for the bubbly lover in your life.
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Domaine Willamette
Domaine Willamette is Oregon’s first sparkling wine facility that produces world-class méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines with an underground aging cellar at the biodynamically-farmed Bernau Estate Vineyard. The winery offers Oregon-inspired hospitality with wine and food pairings, stunning views, educational tours and beautiful gardens overlooking the Dundee Hills.
Where To Explore
What To Pack
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‍Hailee Sweater Skirt Set
Cozy up, but keep it cute and eliminate decision fatigue by opting for a cute set. Â
$108 Â
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Cozy Cabin Sweater
Pull it on and layer with similar tones for a champagne-weather look.
$168 Â
Shop now‍
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