Memorial Day Weekend = Wine Tasting!

Four wineries plus six woman and one man equals a good time had by all!  Myself, Sammie, Mom, Aunt Judy, Aunt Shelly, Aunt Dorma and Jeff set out Saturday for the annual spring kick-off of wine season.  Everyone met at our at 11:30 and off we went into the beautiful East Willamette Valley.  This is a lesser known area of Oregon wine country, but still beautiful none-the-less.  The biggest advantage to East Willamette Valley is their prices.  Things are definately more affordable outside the Dundee/McMinneville area.   Silverton was our first stop with Vitis Ridge Winery located inside a brewery there.  It was the only winery where we had to pay a tasting fee, but I thought it was more than fair seeing as they had 12 wines to try, plus complimentary glass.  By far, it was my favorite stop of the day.  I have experienced their wine several times in the past and have always enjoyed it.  I think everyone else liked it too as they collaborated and bought a case of wine collectively. 

Next, we were off to Pudding River.  What a quaint little place.  Their tasting room is located in a renovated barn on the upper floor and everyone got to stumble over the pronunciation of Viogner.  I had packed us a European-style lunch so we dined outside while the weather was decent.  They had an adorable white kitty who fell in love with Shelly's purse and was rubbing everyone's feet while we ate. 

After a very satisfying meal of meat, cheeses, chicken salad sandwiches, grapes and bread, we headed south to Silver Falls Winery.  I can't say Silver Falls is one of my favorites, but they had a delightful Australian Shepard there who did an excellent job guarding the driveway from our entrance.  Her name was
Coco and she was an old dog, but very sweet.

Finally, we finished at Piluso Vineyard.  The sun broke through to allow us to enjoy their beautiful grounds.  They had a lovely garden area with an out building that provided comfy chairs to relax and enjoy the setting.  I had a wonderful day with everyone and I'd like to say thank you to you all.  It was a truly relaxing day, and I enjoyed every minute of it and your company.  I can't wait to do it again!