29 Jul Three Towns, One Valley: An Outsider’s Guide to Willamette Wine Country

There are more than 230 wineries in the Willamette Valley, covering 150 miles from Eugene to Portland. Where should you stay? Where should you eat? Where should you go wine tasting? Check out my story in WineTraveler: How to Take a Self-Guided Wine Tour Between Newberg, Yamhill-Carlton, and McMinnville in the Willamette Valley. In this story, I suggest thinking outside the box and instead focusing on the triangle, which includes three towns within the valley. Whether you stay in Newberg, Yamhill-Carlton, or McMinnville, check out these wineries, hotels, and restaurants that complete a triangle.

The Willamette Valley may stretch nearly 150 miles from Eugene to Portland, but the heart of Oregon wine country beats strongest in a much smaller area. Between Newberg, Yamhill-Carlton, and McMinnville lies a triangle, not just of geography, but of experience. It is compact enough to navigate with ease, yet expansive in its flavors, character, and hospitality. Whether you are after biodynamic Pinot Noir, farm-driven meals, or design-forward lodging, this route delivers it all.

For a visitor, the valley can feel sprawling. But here’s the trick: land in Portland, drive 45 minutes to Newberg, and work your way through the triangle. No matter where you stay, each stop is under 30 minutes away — and each one offers something distinct.

NEWBERG: The Gateway to Oregon Wine Country

Newberg is the perfect place to begin your journey. Coming from the Portland Airport, it is the first town of the Willamette Valley you will hit. A mix of rural charm and evolving sophistication, this town boasts over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, plus a growing food and art scene.

Where to Stay
Allison Inn & Spa

Where to Eat
Katy’s Kitchen
Coffee Cat
Forage

Wineries to Visit
Rex Hill Winery
Privé Vineyard
ROCO Winery

YAMHILL-CARLTON: Where the Land Shapes the Wine

The Yamhill-Carlton AVA, established in 2005, bridges the two towns of Yamhill and Carlton. Carlton was once a logging town that reinvented itself with wine. Yamhill, its quieter sister, carries rougher edges from its past. The Yamhill-Carlton AVA is a horseshoe-shaped AVA defined by ancient marine soils and natural protection from the Coast Range, making it one of the warmer and more distinctive spots in the valley. Pinot Noir thrives here with structure and depth, and the region’s approach to sustainability leads the valley in regenerative farming, pollinator pathways, and reforestation efforts.

Where to Stay
Inn The Ground

Where to Eat
Earth & Sea

Wineries to Visit
Abbott Claim
Belle Pente
Kristof Farms
Abbey Road Farm

McMINNVILLE: Historic Downtown, Michelin-Worthy Stays

McMinnville, one of the points on the triangle, is where small-town charm meets cosmopolitan polish. Tree-lined streets host indie coffee shops, antique stores, art galleries, and chef-driven restaurants. It’s a place that rewards wandering.

Where to Stay
Atticus Hotel

Where to Eat
Humble Spirit

Wineries to Visit
Ambar Estate
Lachini Vineyards
Penner-Ash
Colene Clemens
Compris Vineyard
Jachter Family Wines

Whether you stay in Newburg, Yamhill-Carlton, or McMinnville, or hop between all three, this triangle within the Willamette Valley offers one of the most complete and rewarding wine country itineraries. It is a place that values connection: to the land, to each other, and to the rhythms of season and soil.

Three towns. One valley. Endless reasons to return. Read the complete story with details about each place to visit on WineTraveler.com.