Hawks View Winery

The vineyard came first. The Benziger family — the Sonoma name behind Glen Ellen — planted it in 1989, and for twenty years it supplied high-quality fruit to prominent Oregon vintners.

In 2003, Jack Kemp bought the property. A lifelong Oregonian, he set out to farm the land himself and grow fruit of exceptional quality, doubling the acreage under vine. By 2007 he’d combined a serious winemaking facility with something equally important to him: a warm, inviting place to bring friends and family together. Hawks View Cellars became one of the great loves of his life. After his death, his wife Willie and son A.J. carried it forward.

In summer 2017, Ponte Family Estate — another family-run operation, based in Temecula — took ownership and has continued the same approach.

The 50-acre estate sits in the Chehalem Mountains, sustainably farmed to Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, all estate grown and available only at the winery.

What makes it work as a stop is the setting and the flexibility. There are two indoor tasting rooms, a members-only rooftop terrace, spacious outdoor seating, and an unobstructed view of Mount Hood — the kind that catches people off guard given how close it is to Portland. There’s a seasonal food menu rather than just snacks, and wine by the glass or bottle rather than only flights.

Dogs are welcome in The Nest, a dedicated outdoor space a short walk down the hill with its own private view. Guests describe having it entirely to themselves.

The other advantage is hours. They’re open until 7 five days a week, which is rare in wine country and makes this a genuine after-work or after-dinner option.