Coelho Winery of Amity

Note the “W” across the top of the Coelho wine label. It stands for “wine,” but if you look again, the “W” begins to look like rabbit ears. You’re not imagining bunnies — the resemblance is intentional. You see, Coelho (pronounced co - EL – ho) means rabbit in the Portuguese language. It also happens to be the last name of owners Dave and Deolinda Coelho, who have Portuguese roots. It’s little wonder then that the Coelho Winery of Amity wines have Portuguese names including: Paciência (patience), Renovação (renewal), Serenidade (serenity), Espontâneo (spontaneous), Divertimento (fun), and Fusäo (fusion). Consequently, visitors can come away with not only wine, but a language lesson to aid them on their next visit to Lisbon.

The generously sized tasting room at Coelho Winery offers respite for weary wine tourists. You may never want to come out. There is a cozy fireplace to gather around with glass in hand. Wine-related merchandise to purchase (someone has a great eye for gifts and gets our “Best Retail Shopping” award), local art and an ample wine bar also add to the pleasant experience. The building itself was built in the 1930s and still has its original post and beam timbers. However, like most of its visitors, you are here for the wine, and to that end, get ready to sample pinot noir, pinot gris, chardonnay, pinot noir rosé, petite sirah, red table wines and dessert wines. Most of these wines come from the Coelhos’ 30-acre vineyard located a few miles away in the Eola Hills.

It’s likely that your visit will include a lively conversation with the tasting-room staff and perhaps a “where are you from?” discussion with the folks next to you. There’s a reason the name is Coelho Winery of Amity — amity means friendship and is derived from the Latin amicus meaning friend. The village of Amity prides itself on its friendliness.

Incidentally, the Portuguese word for friend is amigo. Saude!