I've been driving by this place for a few years now. Usually, it's at the beginning or end of my journey into Redmond and never a convenient time to stop.
On this day, however, we made a special trip to try this place. It's cute as you walk in with the wine barrels all around they have various items for sale, t-shirts, corkscrews, etc.
We were greeted by Steve, a helpful gentleman behind the counter. Steve explained how the Maragas family got into the wine business. Doug Maragas had been exposed to winemaking at an early age. He went on to go to law school and practice in Portland, Oregon. At the end of a particularly tough and precedent setting case he decided to retire from law and begin winemaking in Central Oregon.
They told him he would never be able to grow grapes for wine in Central Oregon which he proved them wrong. In fact, the area from Madras to Bend is now somewhat of a wine country, according to Steve. Although, not yet an AVA, there are many more hoops for that, they have clearly started a trend.
We tasted many of their wines $5 will get you a taste of four of the wines on the list. For every two bottles purchased they will refund a tasting.
We even met Doug Maragas, briefly and complemented him on his wine.
The surrounding area looks to be a fun place to hang out and drink some wine with a view of Smith Rocks in one direction and a view of the Three Sisters Mountains in the other direction.
We ended up purchasing a bottle of Pinot Gris, a must try even if you only drink reds. Very fresh and clean and a delightful pairing with fish, chicken or even with your favorite cheese and fruit.
The other bottle was Doug's own creation a sangria with a mixture of delightful tastes and is a seasonal purchase. It kind of reminded me of pumpkin pie with all the various spices. Taste that for something different.
I enjoyed the Zinfandel as well but I wanted to limit my purchases to two bottles on this day.
Located just off Highway 97, it's hard to miss because of the excellent signage.
Clearly, Doug has contacted ODOT and obtained their permits and paid the appropriate monies for the blue highway signs which aid in locating this rather ,at first glance,unassuming business.
Good job, otherwise, to the casual observer this many appear to be just another farm.
Have Steve or one of the other servers put you on the mailing list for additional information on their winery and events.
They do have a wine club there but I think I'll just catch them when I'm over there again.
It's close to the area I always visit and the experience was so good you know I'll be back. read more