Portland, Oregon, isn’t just famous for its quirky neighborhoods and fantastic food scene; it’s also a top destination for wine enthusiasts eager to explore the nearby vineyards and scenic landscapes. The city’s location puts you within reach of world-class wine regions like Willamette Valley, famed for Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Whether you want a full-day adventure taking in waterfalls, mountains, and vineyards, or prefer a relaxing cruise or urban tasting experience, Portland offers a rich variety of wine tours.
This guide highlights the seven best wine tours in Portland, ranging from full-day explorations of waterfalls and Mt. Hood to intimate urban tastings. You’ll find options that include guided winery visits, scenic drives, river cruises, and food pairings. We’ll help you understand what makes each tour unique—be it the stunning scenery, personalized experiences, or the quality of wines—and suggest which might suit your preferences and schedule.
Quick Overview
Portland’s top wine tours cover a broad spectrum: full-day trips combining waterfalls, mountains, and wine tasting; targeted vineyard visits in Willamette Valley; scenic river cruises with brunch; and urban tastings within Portland’s lively neighborhoods. Some tours, like the Waterfalls, Mt. Hood, and Wine Day Tour, focus on the outdoors and iconic scenery, while others, such as the Urban Wine Tasting Tour, give you a taste of Portland’s vibrant local wine scene. Most tours are designed for small groups, emphasizing personalized attention and authentic experiences.
1. From Portland: Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour
The Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour offers a full day of natural beauty coupled with excellent wine tasting. Starting from $155 per person, this 8 to 8.5-hour tour takes you through the Columbia River Gorge, a corridor packed with waterfalls and dramatic vistas. The experience begins with a visit to Multnomah Falls, where you’ll stand in awe of the iconic cascade. The guide then explores other waterfalls in the area, giving you plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch with Mt. Hood as your backdrop, adding a special touch to this outdoor adventure. Post-lunch, there’s an opportunity to sample wines at a charming local winery, with tasting fees included. The tour wraps up with a visit to Timberline Lodge, a historic mountain retreat with spectacular views.
Guests praise the friendly guides and smooth itinerary, noting the balance between scenic sightseeing and wine tasting. One reviewer called it “a fantastic day,” highlighting the blend of outdoor exploration and wine. This tour is perfect for those who love nature, beautiful drives, and quality wines, and don’t mind a full day on the road.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic adventure blending outdoor sights with wine, ideal for couples or groups craving a comprehensive Oregon experience. Be prepared for a full day and book early.
2. Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour
This Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour features $179 per person and lasts about 8 hours. The tour takes a deep dive into the stunning landscapes around Mount Hood, with a focus on the diverse wine region of Hood River Valley. You’ll start your day with a visit to Timberline Lodge, an architectural gem perched on Mt. Hood, with incredible mountain views.
The journey continues with stops at scenic Columbia Gorge waterfalls and a visit to a vineyard where you can sample a variety of wines, cider, and beer—a nice touch, especially with the included glass of wine. The guide’s knowledge shines through, making the history and geology of the region come alive, and recent reviews mention how engaging and well-paced the day is.
Guests have raved about the variety of activities and how the tour perfectly balances nature, culture, and wine. It’s suited for adventurous wine lovers who want a bit of everything—mountains, waterfalls, and good vino—in one day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day that mixes outdoor scenery with wine sampling, ideal for those who want to explore Oregon’s natural wonders along with their glass.
3. Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a more relaxed, upscale experience, check out the Champagne Brunch Cruise. Priced at $104 per person, this 2-hour cruise is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying Portland from a different perspective. The boat departs from downtown Portland, offering sweeping views of Willamette River, skyline, and bridges.
Onboard, indulge in a buffet brunch, which includes sparkling wine, mimosas, and freshly prepared food. The cruise combines scenic city views with the pleasure of bottomless drinks and good company. Reviewers mention how peaceful and beautiful the scenery is, with one calling it “a very nice way to see Portland.”
This tour is best suited for those who want a luxurious, intimate experience and enjoy food and drink paired with sights. It’s also family-friendly, making it a great option for groups or couples seeking a laid-back yet memorable outing.
Bottom Line: A classy, moderate-length cruise perfect for celebrating or enjoying Portland’s skyline and river with brunch and bubbly.
4. Willamette Valley Wine Tour
The Willamette Valley Wine Tour at $140 per person takes you into Oregon’s most celebrated wine country, visiting three top vineyards in the heart of the Willamette Valley. This small-group tour promises a more personalized experience, limited to 8 guests for an intimate tasting.
The itinerary includes visits to countryside vineyards selected by a knowledgeable guide, with wine tastings included. Guests appreciate the friendly hosts and expert insights about Oregon’s thriving Pinot Noir scene. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, providing context about the region’s unique soils and climate.
Guests have noted the delicious wines and how the tour balances scenic drives with educational tastings. The tour is well-suited for wines connoisseurs or those eager to deepen their understanding of Oregon’s viniculture in a relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A smaller, more personal tasting experience, perfect for those wanting detailed insights and high-quality wines without the crowds.
5. From Portland: Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour
This Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour at $210 per person offers an all-encompassing experience. Lasting about 7.5 hours, it includes visits to 3-4 wineries with a delicious picnic lunch amid the vineyards. The guide provides commentary on Oregon’s growing wine industry and the geography that makes the region ideal for Pinot Noir and Gris.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide Dasha and the personalized attention at each winery. The tour combines scenic vineyard views with educational insights, making it a hit for wine lovers eager to learn more about local varieties. Reviewers mention that it’s an excellent value, with the lunch included and convenient hotel pickup.
Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, full-day exploration of Oregon’s wine culture, this tour balances tasting, scenery, and education seamlessly.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, all-in-one day suited for travelers who want to have their wine and learn about it too, with a relaxed pace and scenic stops.
6. Willamette Valley Wine Tour
This Willamette Valley Wine Tour at $235 per person is a premium experience exploring three vineyards with hotel pickup included. Lasting about 8 hours, the tour is curated by industry insiders and offers a small group setting for personalized attention.
Participants visit famous regions like Dundee Hills and Yamhill, tasting different wines and enjoying a planned lunch stop. The modern van and expert guidance make it a comfortable and educational experience. Recent reviews highlight the high-quality wines and the fabulous guide who tailors the experience to your preferences.
This tour is ideal for serious wine enthusiasts who want a curated, exclusive experience with all reservations handled for you. The focus on region-specific wines makes it particularly appealing for those interested in Oregon’s flagship Pinot Noir.
Bottom Line: For dedicated wine lovers seeking a curated, small-group experience with premium wines and insider knowledge.
7. Portland: Urban Wine Tasting Tour
The Urban Wine Tasting Tour at $139 per person offers a 2.5-hour walk through Portland’s vibrant neighborhoods with visits to 3 local winery tasting rooms. The tour includes small food pairings at each stop, making it a delightful way to experience the local wine scene.
Participants learn about Portland’s growing wine culture and the winemaking process, all while exploring lively districts like the Pearl District and NW neighborhoods. Guests consistently appreciate the friendly guides and the variety of wines offered, which showcase the region’s diversity. One reviewer said it’s “a wine experience you can’t get on your own,” highlighting its value for those wanting insider access.
This tour is best suited for urban explorers and those who want a short, engaging tasting experience without leaving the city.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a compact, informative wine tasting within Portland’s energetic neighborhoods.
How to Choose the Perfect Portland Wine Tour
When selecting among these tours, consider your priorities: do you want an all-day outdoor adventure with waterfalls and mountains? The Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour is your best choice. If you’re more interested in exploring Oregon’s renowned Pinot Noir in intimate vineyard settings, the Willamette Valley Wine Tour or the Willamette Valley Wine Tour are excellent options.
For a luxurious experience, the Champagne Brunch Cruise offers a leisurely river view with food and drinks, while the Urban Wine Tasting Tour fits those short on time but eager to explore Portland’s vibrant wine scene. Budget-wise, the Oregon Wine Tour and Full-Day Wine Tour give good value for comprehensive experiences, whereas the premium tours like Willamette Valley Wine Tour provide a more curated, upscale outing.
Timing is key. Book early for weekends or popular seasons like late spring or fall, when vineyards are in full bloom or harvest. Check availability for specific start times, especially if you have a tight schedule or want to customize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Portland offers a broad spectrum of wine tours that cater to many interests, from scenic outdoor adventures to intimate vineyard tastings and urban explorations. For an all-encompassing outdoor day, the Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour combines breathtaking scenery with high-quality wines. If your focus is Oregon’s flagship Pinot Noir, the Willamette Valley Wine Tours stand out for their expert-guided, small-group experiences.
Those seeking a relaxed, luxurious outing will appreciate the Champagne Brunch Cruise, while travelers wanting an insider’s look at Portland’s local scene should consider the Urban Wine Tasting Tour. Whatever your taste and schedule, booking early ensures you get your preferred date and the best possible experience.
Feel inspired to explore Oregon’s rich wine culture—these tours are your gateway to memorable landscapes, excellent wines, and a deeper appreciation of Portland’s unique charm. Cheers to planning your perfect wine adventure!