FacebookTweetPinYummly Last weekend Jordan and I had a chance to visit the ultimate wine region of Oregon – the Willamette Valley! Neither of us had ever taken a trip to this Pinot Noir destination, and it was well worth the trip. The wines were delicious, people were friendly and welcoming, and the area was absolutely beautiful! Our main reason for making the trip down was to visit Stoller Family Estate. Upon arriving, we were greeted by families picnicking on the front slope, dogs playing, and a feeling that despite their amazing success, Stoller really is a family winery. The property at Stoller Family Estate is so beautiful. Even if the wine wasn’t as delicious as it is (it’s really good, I’m getting there!), I’d be happy to just hang out on the 399 acres of grounds! They have three beautiful guest houses, and we were lucky enough to stay in one. We were able to take a sunset walk with views of the vineyard, sipping our wine. When we come back soon, we plan to stay at one of their houses again! We couldn’t have asked for a better location or more comfortable space. The highlight of our visit to Stoller was hands down the Gastronomic tasting & tour. If you’re in the area, this is a must! Each wine was so thoughtfully and perfectly paired with the food, and all of the food was chosen based on what was locally in season so the flavors were bright and delicious. They hold this tasting for private parties, so you and your friends can enjoy this special event together! Jordan and I were raving about this tasting all weekend, and kept saying we can’t wait to come back and do it again. The menu for the Gastronomic Tasting & Tour is seasonally dependent, so it’s always different! Their chef thinks of new delicious and creative dishes each time, so every experience is unique to you. I think that’s so fun, and makes the experience even more special. On our menu: Pairing 1: First of the season compressed watermelon, husk cherries, basil and white balsamic. Paired with 2018 Willamette Valley Pinor Noir Rosé. Pairing 2: English pea farro risotto. Paired with 2016 Reserve Chardonnay. Pairing 3: Roasted diver scallop, sweet corn succotash, black eyed peas. Paired with 2016 Elsie’s Chardonnay. Pairing 4: Pan roasted salmon. Summer squash, saffron butter sauce. Paired with 2016 Helen’s Pinot Noir. (This was my personal favorite of the wines! We’re going to get a bottle to enjoy for Thanksgiving, and I can’t wait!) Pairing 5: Filet mignon with morel mushrooms, green beans and chimichurri. Paired with 2016 Nancy’s Pinot Noir. Pairing 6: Lamb chop, rainbow carrots, pinot reduction. Paired with 2014 History Otis Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Thank you to Stoller Family Estate for hosting us, and providing this wonderful experience. As always, all opinions are my own. FacebookTweetPinYummly