9 Unforgettable Wine Tasting Experiences in Carlton, Oregon

Great wine tasting experiences feel effortless when you know what to expect. Carlton makes that easy with warm tasting rooms, relaxed pacing, and winemakers who love sharing their craft. 

Our guide takes you through nine exceptional stops, allowing you to plan your wine getaway with complete confidence. For the smoothest trip, check each winery’s hours and reservation requirements, as schedules can change throughout the year.

If you’re visiting several stops, consider a designated driver or local transportation to keep your day relaxed and safe. Alternatively, several wine tour operators offer full-day excursions. They plan the entire day for you and pick you up, drive you all day, and drop you off at your lodging location. 

Ready to map out your perfect tasting day? Here are the wineries that make Carlton shine!

Carlton Winemakers Studio brings several small producers together in one inviting space. You can enjoy a wide range of styles that cater to your preferences. The atmosphere is modern and relaxed. The hosts share insights at a comfortable pace, allowing you to focus on flavor rather than formality.

It's also a great introduction to the valley as winemakers at the studio source their grapes from all over the region. From there, you can further plan your trip based on your favorite wines. It’s an excellent starting point for tasting in Carlton, especially if you want variety without extra driving.

Flâneur Wines embodies unhurried enjoyment and is a true reflection of its name, which translates to “a leisurely wanderer” or “a worldly explorer,” or even “a connoisseur of life.” That makes Flâneur Wines the perfect stop for any traveler who relishes exquisite wines.

The tasting experience here encourages you to slow down, take in the setting, and follow each wine at its own pace. With an impressive list of over 100 wines, the team helps you land on what best suits your taste. 

The restored grain elevator brings a distinct sense of place without feeling staged. It is an easy choice for guests who appreciate thoughtful pours and a relaxed, European-inspired vibe.

Ghost Hill Cellars sits on a quiet ridge outside Carlton, giving you wide views and a peaceful setting. Their focus is estate-grown Pinot Noir, and some even claim their Pinot Noir Blanc, which is rarely made throughout the region, is the best grown in the valley. 

Their tasting room is calm and refined without adding any unnecessary formality. It’s a great pick for guests who enjoy well-defined, cool-climate styles.

Ken Wright Cellars is renowned for its thoughtful farming approach and its deep focus on crafting a more full-bodied Pinot Noir, rather than adhering to the traditional Burgundian style. They use organic-certified practices as a foundation and expand on them with advanced, nutrition-based farming.

They have three tasting locations, including the restored 1920s train depot in downtown Carlton. It’s an easy, distinctive spot to explore their range.

Laurel Ridge Winery offers a welcoming, family-run experience that feels genuine from the moment you arrive. You’re tasting wines made on the estate, and the approach stays focused on quality. Their range includes Pinot Noir, bold red blends, bright white wines, and dessert wines that often surprise guests with their balance.

Tasting selections rotate monthly and encompass a diverse range of styles. They also offer charcuterie boards, making it an easy stop when you want a snack or light lunch with your flight.

Lavinea offers a focused tasting built around artisanal wines from notable Oregon vineyards, including rare library releases. The team is welcoming, well-versed, and ready to share their expert insight.

The space feels calm and intentional, supported by playlists that set the tone. Its downtown Carlton location also makes it easy to follow your tasting with a great meal nearby.

Résonance Wines brings a Burgundian perspective to the Willamette Valley, shaped by the guidance of their expert winemaker. Their estate-grown Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Rosés capture the valley’s character.

Their single-vineyard Pinot Noirs are especially noteworthy, standing out for their site expression and age-worthy style. It’s an excellent stop for guests who appreciate layered, cellar-friendly wines.

Soter Vineyards invites you onto a 250-acre Biodynamic farm and vineyard in the heart of the Willamette Valley. You’ll see their regenerative approach at work, with a focus on biodiversity, integrated farming, and long-term soil health. They’re certified by Demeter USA, a standard that goes well beyond organic requirements.

Expect estate Pinot Noirs, complex Chardonnays, and sparkling wines, all crafted with quality at the forefront. Oh, and don’t miss their Sparkling Brut Rose!

MonksGate Vineyard feels like the friendliest farm stop in wine country. You’ll find it just outside Carlton. The property is a 50-acre working farm. Twenty of those acres are planted to vines.

Step into the rustic barn tasting room. Or grab a seat outside. Adirondack chairs face the Coast Range. The mood stays easy and unhurried. Expect bright Riesling, crisp rosé, and gorgeous Pinot Noir.

Summer Sundays bring their Brunch Truck. Show up hungry. Pair a warm plate with a fresh flight. Linger a little longer. This is the spot for a relaxed, country-chic afternoon you’ll want to repeat.

There are plenty of things to do here between wine tasting experiences. The small downtown is walkable and lined with unique shops, artisan markets, and cafés. Many spots carry local bottles, small-batch foods, and gifts tied to the region’s producers. And if you’re looking for a break from wine tasting, stop by Bull Run Distillery. They’re also located in Carlton.

You can also book vineyard walks, wine tours, or enjoy patio flights at nearby estates.

These nine tasting rooms give you everything you need for a well-paced day of wine tasting experiences. With so many options, there truly is something for everyone — no matter your vibe or preferred taste. Pick the stops that speak to your style, then let Carlton do the rest.

Located right in the heart of Oregon Wine Country, A’ Tuscan Estate is the perfect home base. Book your stay and savor every stop, one pour at a time!

 

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