Methven Family Vineyards

It’s not too often that I gloat about a wine club, but Methven Family Vineyards’ club is an exception. Please understand that I’m biased. My partner, Kathleen, and I arrived on a Sunday only to find the winery closed because of a special wine club function. Undaunted, we walked in and introduced ourselves to Jill Methven, who was working the welcome desk. I explained that I was working on WineTrails of Oregon and just needed to take a couple of pictures and then we would be on our way. However, despite my efforts to be unobtrusive, Jill welcomed us to the event, introduced us to her husband, Allen, and then placed us in the buffet line with plates in hand. Soon Kathleen and I made our way to the barrel room, where winemaker Chris Lubberstedt was pouring wines.

Now, here’s the kicker. Chris was pouring wines, and club members then rated the four different out-of-the-barrels pinots being tasted. Using the feedback of wine club members, Chris then blended the wines into a special club reserve pinot cuvée for distribution exclusively to wine club members. With outstretched hand, Chris gave us generous pours, and we assumed the roles of Methven Family Vineyards Club members. Hey, when there’s free wine at stake, I will pretend to be part of the catering crew if necessary!

In between munching on pulled pork, fresh fruit, and marinated olives, I managed to learn that the Methvens’ 100-acre vineyard boasts 30 acres planted in pinot noir, pinot gris, riesling, and chardonnay. Using organic practices, the Methvens produce elegant wines representing the very best of Willamette Valley. Whereas other wineries have fancy names for their wine clubs, Methven Family Vineyards elected the generic name of Wine Club. But make no mistake; nothing else about this winery is common. Attention to detail is apparent from the greeting you receive to your impromptu membership into the club.