In 1966, no one ever envisioned that Oregon would become one of the premiere wine-producing regions in the world. Now, Oregon, including Benton County, has become a destination for those who enjoy award-winning wines. The Planning Committee of the CHS ’66 50th Reunion invites you to participate in a tour of three outstanding Benton County wineries.

Benton County Wine Tour

• The cost of the tour is $65/person which covers transportation, tasting fees, and a sack lunch.
• The tour will take place on Thursday, August 18, 2016.
• We will load the luxury, air-conditioned buses at the Benton County Fairgrounds at 11:30 am with a departure time of 12:00. Each participant will receive a sack lunch prepared by Valley Catering.
   

Our first stop will be Benton Lane Vineyards in Monroe, Oregon. This winery is located on the top of a hill just about on the boundary between Benton and Lane counties. Originally producing only pinot noir, they have expanded to include Pinot Gris, Rosé of Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay. Their 2012 Pinot Noirs received ratings of 90 points (Wine & Spirits) and 92 points (Wine Spectator). We will eat our lunches on their patio overlooking the Willamette Valley. If time permits, we may be able to tour the winery itself.
 

Next, we will visit Cardwell Hill Cellars west of Philomath. Cardwell Hill, to date, has received 173 awards for their wines. Their Pinot Noirs have received ratings as high as 93 points in Wine Spectator. In 2015, their Pinot Gris was given 95 points and named Best in Class at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. We will taste 5 wines at Cardwell Hill: Pinot Gris, Blanc de Noir, Rosé, and 2 Pinot Noirs.
 

The final stop on our tour will be Harris Bridge Vineyard near Wren, Oregon. Harris Bridge specializes in dessert wines, but also makes Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir vermouth, aperitifs, and brandy. Their cozy tasting room and downhome atmosphere is always a treat.
                                                       

The bus will return to Benton County Fairgrounds by 5:30 pm.
If you are interested in the tour, we urge you to register as soon as possible. There is a maximum of 56 people. We also have a minimum of 30 people, i.e. if we don’t get 30 people to register for the tour by July 15, it will be cancelled and refunds paid to those who had paid for the tour.
Questions should be directed to Nancy Bond Hemming through the CHS ’66 website or by phone at 541-752-8745.

Look forward to seeing you on the bus!

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