In Newberg, Oregon, the Chehalem tasting room offers a charming step back in time. Housed in a historic brick building, it blends Old World character with a distinctly Northwest flair. One of its most charming quirks? A refillable wine-on-tap program that lets you fill up a liter-sized Chehalem-branded bottle with select wines like the INOX Chardonnay or their signature Three Vineyard Pinot Noir. It’s an eco-friendly, community-driven twist that’s as practical as it is enjoyable.
The INOX Chardonnay—named for the stainless steel vessels it’s fermented in—is a bright, energetic wine that dances on the palate. Without oak influence, this Chardonnay shows off the purest expression of its fruit and terroir. Expect clean, vibrant notes of green apple, lemon zest, and pear, with a steely minerality running through the finish. It’s crisp and refreshing, with a sleek texture that makes it a natural partner for seafood or goat cheese. A perfect warm-weather white that feels both elegant and effortless
2019 Three Vineyard Pinot Noir
Chehalem’s Pinot program shines brightest with the 2019 vintage of the Three Vineyard Pinot Noir. Sourced from three estate vineyards—Corral Creek, Ridgecrest, and Stoller—this wine encapsulates the nuanced complexity of the Willamette Valley. The 2019 is particularly balanced, showing delicate layers of red cherry, raspberry, and pomegranate, with hints of forest floor and spice. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity make it incredibly food-friendly, but it also holds its own as a contemplative sipper. This vintage reflects a cooler growing season, lending it elegance, finesse, and age-worthy structure.
A visit to Chehalem feels like catching up with an old friend who happens to know a lot about wine. The tasting flights (starting at $25) are approachable and well-curated, and the staff is knowledgeable without being overbearing. The space itself feels rooted in history, yet comfortably modern—exposed brick, warm wood accents, and a relaxed vibe that invites lingering. Whether you’re dropping in to refill your bottle or diving into a full flight, there’s a genuine hospitality that defines the Chehalem experience.
Chehalem offers both quality and character—whether in a chilled glass of INOX on a sunny afternoon or a contemplative swirl of their elegant 2019 Pinot. And with the added charm of their refillable liter program, it’s a tasting room visit that’s hard to forget—and even harder not to return to.
