I love exploring the wine scene in Bend, Oregon. This charming city in Central Oregon has a growing number of wineries that offer unique tasting experiences.
From local favorites to award-winning vintages, there’s something for every wine lover to enjoy.
In this article, I’ll share my picks for the 5 best wineries in Bend, Oregon that you should definitely check out.
These spots stand out for their excellent wines, inviting atmospheres, and friendly staff. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, you’ll find plenty to love at these top Bend wineries.
1. Willamette Valley Vineyards – Bend
I recently visited Willamette Valley Vineyards in Bend, and I was blown away by the experience. The tasting room has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with unique barrel booth seating and fireplaces that create a warm ambiance.
The wine selection is fantastic, featuring world-class, sustainably made wines that showcase the best of Oregon’s vineyards.
I particularly enjoyed their renowned Pinot Noir, which lived up to its reputation as one of America’s great Pinot Noir producers.
The food pairings were a delightful surprise. The Pacific Northwest-inspired menu complemented the wines perfectly. I loved how the flavors of the dishes brought out the best in each glass I tried.
The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making my visit even more enjoyable. They were happy to share information about the winery’s history and winemaking process. It’s clear why this place has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Rating: 4.9 (72 reviews)
Location: 916 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 306-6000
Website: Visit Website
2. Bledsoe Family Winery
I recently visited Bledsoe Family Winery in Bend, and I was blown away by the experience. The tasting room has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.
The wines I tried were fantastic. I especially loved their reds, which had rich flavors and smooth finishes.
The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, happily answering all my questions about the winemaking process.
What stood out to me was the attention to detail in every aspect of the winery. From the elegant decor to the perfectly paired snacks, it’s clear that the Bledsoe family takes pride in creating a top-notch experience for visitors.
I recommend trying their flagship Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a perfect example of the high-quality wines they produce.
The winery also offers a great outdoor seating area, which is perfect for enjoying a glass on a sunny day.
Rating: 4.9 (67 reviews)
Location: 550 SW Industrial Way Suite 198, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 797-6502
Website: Visit Website
3. Evoke Winery – Bend
I had such a fun time at Evoke Winery in Bend! As soon as I walked in, I felt right at home.
The cozy tasting room has a cool, laid-back vibe that made me want to stay all day.
Their wines are top-notch. I tried a few different ones, and they were all tasty.
The staff was super friendly and knew a lot about the wines. They helped me pick out some bottles to take home.
One of the best things about Evoke is their events. They have live music on the first Friday of each month, which is a blast. I also heard about their barrel tastings, which sound amazing. I can’t wait to go back and check those out.
If you’re looking for a fun winery experience in Bend, Evoke is the place to go. It’s perfect for hanging out with friends or even going on a date. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Rating: 4.5 (210 reviews)
Location: 330 SW Powerhouse Dr #110, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 386-3700 ext. 0
Website: Visit Website
4. Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards
I recently visited Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards and was blown away by the stunning views. The winery sits on a beautiful property in Terrebonne, just outside Bend.
As I sipped their wines on the patio, I took in the sweeping vistas of the Cascade Mountains.
The tasting room has a warm, welcoming vibe. I loved chatting with the friendly staff as they poured generous samples. They shared interesting facts about the winemaking process and the vineyard’s history.
I was impressed by the quality of their wines. My favorites were the crisp Pinot Gris and the bold Syrah. The wines really showcased the unique terroir of Central Oregon. I ended up buying a few bottles to take home and savor later.
Faith Hope & Charity also hosts fun events throughout the year. I’d love to go back for one of their summer concerts or harvest festivals. It seems like the perfect spot to relax with friends while enjoying great wine and beautiful scenery.
Rating: 4.5 (231 reviews)
Location: 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr, Terrebonne, OR 97760
Contact: (541) 526-5075
Website: Visit Website
5. Va Piano Vineyards Tasting Room
I stumbled upon Va Piano Vineyards Tasting Room in Bend’s Old Mill District, and I’m so glad I did! This cozy spot offers a taste of Walla Walla right here in Central Oregon.
The moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the friendly staff and warm atmosphere.
The tasting room has a great selection of wines, focusing on small-lot Cabernet Sauvignons, Syrahs, and red blends. I especially enjoyed their reds, which really showcase the best of the Columbia Valley.
The staff was knowledgeable and happy to chat about the wines and their production.
One thing I loved about Va Piano is their philosophy of “go slowly.” It’s all about taking time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures – good wine, good company, and good conversation.
The tasting room’s layout encourages this, with comfortable seating perfect for relaxing with friends.
They’re open daily, which is great for flexibility. I’d recommend making a reservation if you’re going with a larger group. And if you fall in love with their wines like I did, they offer a wine club with some nice perks!
Rating: 4.5 (81 reviews)
Location: 425 SW Powerhouse Dr #301, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 797-6363
Website: Visit Website
Exploring Wine Varietals in Bend
Bend’s wineries offer a diverse range of wine varietals to suit every palate.
I’ve discovered some unique local grapes and popular wine styles that showcase the region’s winemaking talent.
Unique Local Grapes
I’ve found that Bend wineries grow some interesting grape varieties suited to the high desert climate. Maragas Winery cultivates hardy grapes like Marechal Foch and La Crescent. These grapes thrive in Central Oregon’s cool nights and sunny days.
Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards grows Marquette grapes, which produce rich red wines. I love how these unique varietals capture Bend’s terroir in each sip.
Some wineries also experiment with lesser-known grapes like Frontenac and Regent. These create distinctive wines you won’t find anywhere else.
Popular Wine Styles
When I visit Bend’s tasting rooms, I often see familiar wine styles made with a local twist. Pinot Noir is popular, showcasing Oregon’s signature grape.
Many wineries offer crisp white wines like Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. These pair perfectly with Bend’s outdoor lifestyle.
I’ve noticed a trend toward bold red blends at places like The Wine Shop. These often mix local grapes with classic varietals for a unique flavor profile.
Some wineries also produce refreshing rosés and sparkling wines. These are great for sipping on sunny Bend afternoons.
Wine Tasting Tips
When visiting Bend’s wineries, knowing how to taste wine properly and pair it with food can enhance your experience. These skills will help you appreciate the flavors and make the most of your wine tasting adventures.
How to Taste Like a Pro
I always start by looking at the wine’s color and clarity. Swirling the glass helps release aromas.
I take a deep sniff to pick up scents of fruits, flowers, or spices.
When I sip, I let the wine coat my tongue. I pay attention to flavors, acidity, tannins, and body.
Taking small sips and swishing the wine around helps me notice subtle notes.
I like to take notes on my impressions. This helps me remember which wines I enjoyed most. Many Bend tasting rooms offer tasting sheets to jot down thoughts.
Between tastings, I cleanse my palate with water or plain crackers. This keeps each wine tasting fresh and distinct.
Pairing Wine with Food
I’ve found that pairing wine with the right foods can bring out the best in both.
Light whites like Pinot Grigio go well with seafood and salads. Full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon pair nicely with red meats.
Many Bend wine bars offer cheese and charcuterie boards.
I love how creamy cheeses complement crisp whites, while aged cheeses match bold reds.
When in doubt, I ask the tasting room staff for suggestions. They often have great ideas for local food pairings.
Some wineries even host special pairing events to showcase their wines with chef-prepared bites.
I always try to match the wine’s intensity with the food.
Delicate dishes work best with lighter wines, while rich foods call for full-bodied options.
