Cardwell Hill Cellars

Cardwell Hill Cellars is described by folks as having a “French country ambiance,” and aside from the missing yellow mustard flowers, it definitely has that look and feel. The vineyard itself slopes down from Cardwell Hill (hence the name), with a chateau-like house set at the top of the slope. Outside the winery’s light-filled tasting room, visitors can relax on the deck and picnic while enjoying a view of the vineyard and Mary’s Peak in the distance. The scene epitomizes Oregon country elegance.

Dan and Nancy Chapel, who launched Cardwell Hill Cellars, are very much focused on the vineyard, where 36 acres of pinot noir and pinot gris are cultivated using earth-friendly sustainable practices; the vineyard bears both LIVE and Salmon Safe certifications. In terms of winemaking at their gravity-fed facility, Dan proudly remarks on the Cardwell Hill website, “Only the juice of the grape is removed from the vineyard — all of the rest is recycled back into the land.” Now to this WineTrail trekker, that speaks to the purity of Cardwell Hill Cellars wines.

As you swirl and sip inside the beautifully appointed tasting room, note the sign stating, “Direct from the word of God, 1 Timothy 5:23, No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.” Trust me, though, no ailing stomach is needed to enjoy the taste of these elegant garnet-colored pinot noirs and the refreshing pinot gris. It’s little wonder that the Chapels consistently take home awards from prestigious wine-tasting events, including the Dallas Morning News Wine Competition, Northwest Wine Summit, and Wine Press Northwest.

Located close to King Valley Highway (SR 223), Cardwell Hill Cellars is easy to find. Simply follow the blue signs to discover this touch of French country elegance ensconced in the graceful hillside.