One of the best things about living in Portland in 2025 is the easy access to unforgettable weekend escapes—especially a visit to Maryhill Winery. Just under two hours away through the stunning Columbia River Gorge, Maryhill Winery is one of the largest and most visited wineries in Washington State, offering wine enthusiasts a world-class experience just outside the city. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing weekend trip or an immersive wine education, Maryhill Winery continues to be a premier destination for Portland wine lovers and newcomers moving to Portland alike.
Maryhill Winery: A Destination Winery with a Portland Connection
Maryhill Winery began as a dream back in 1999 for founders Craig and Vicki Leuthold, who turned their passion for wine into a bold escape from the corporate world. “We always had a passion for wine and we wanted to take that to a different level. We knew Washington was on the cusp of greatness and everyone we met in the industry was so wonderful. That excited us and we knew we wanted to become involved in it,” Craig Leuthold told Wine Press Northwest.
Opened to the public in 2001, Maryhill Winery was one of only 100 wineries in Washington at the time. Fast forward to 2025, and the state is now home to more than 1,000 wineries, with Maryhill Winery standing out as a pioneer and icon in the Pacific Northwest wine scene.
Committed to the idea of a true destination winery, Maryhill Winery now produces over 90,000 cases of 50 different varietals and blends. The property welcomes more than 80,000 annual visitors who come to enjoy its 3,000-square-foot tasting room, vine-covered arbor, private courtyard, world-class bocce courts, picnic grounds, and adjacent 4,000-seat amphitheater. The winery is also home to a thriving wine club of more than 1,500 members.
Maryhill Winery is particularly appealing for weekend visitors from Portland thanks to its scenic location. A two-hour drive from the city transports you into an entirely different landscape—sun-soaked hills, winding roads, and river views. For Portland residents looking for wine tasting near Portland, it’s a rare blend of convenience and indulgence.
Visiting Maryhill Winery from Portland offers an ideal day trip for locals and newcomers moving to Portland who want to explore beyond the city. It’s a place to relax, sip, and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Columbia River and majestic Mt. Hood. The winery also hosts a legendary summer concert series, with past performers including Willie Nelson, Peter Frampton, Buddy Guy, Counting Crows, Styx, Hall and Oates, and The Wallflowers.
Maryhill Winery: It’s All About the Wine
In its first 14 years, Maryhill Winery earned over 1,000 wine competition medals and continues to rack up awards in 2025. It was previously named Wine Press Northwest’s Pacific Northwest Winery of the Year and took home Winery of the Year honors from the San Francisco International Wine Competition.
Working with select growing partners across the state, Maryhill Winery produces exceptional wines that reflect Washington’s unique and diverse terroir. The winery sits atop basalt cliffs in what’s often called the “Mediterranean of the Northwest,” with warm summer days, cool nights, and moderate winters.
The vineyards overlook the historic Gunkel Family Vineyards, one of Washington’s oldest, and source grapes from multiple trusted partners to produce varietals such as Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat Canelli, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Viognier, Zinfandel, and four Port-style varietals.
The Leutholds credit the warm climate, Walla Walla silt loam soil, Missoula Flood legacy, and consistent breezes for creating the ideal environment for producing premium wine grapes. This combination of passion, landscape, and precision winemaking has made Maryhill Winery a top choice for Portland wine enthusiasts.
Year-Round Events at Maryhill Winery
Beyond its more intimate music series, Maryhill Winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Wine release weekends, holiday markets, winemaker dinners, and seasonal festivals draw visitors from across the Pacific Northwest. These events provide the perfect opportunity for those who are moving to Portland to meet locals, enjoy regional flavors, and discover what makes Washington wine so distinctive.
Each event is set against the winery’s natural backdrop—rolling hills, the rushing Columbia River, and panoramic mountain views. Whether you’re attending a music set on the terrace or participating in a grape harvest festival, the atmosphere is always vibrant and welcoming.
Wine Club Perks and Membership
The Maryhill Winery Wine Club offers members exclusive access to new releases, limited-edition wines, private events, and discounts on purchases. For frequent visitors from Portland or Washington, membership provides excellent value and a sense of connection to the winery’s ongoing story.
With multiple membership tiers, the club caters to everyone—from casual enthusiasts to collectors. Wine shipments can be picked up at the winery or shipped directly to your door, making it easy to enjoy Maryhill Winery’s best selections all year long.
Dining and Experiences On-Site
Maryhill Winery isn’t just about wine. On-site picnic areas, food trucks during special events, and occasional pop-up dining experiences add to the overall visit. Guests can pack a picnic or purchase local fare while enjoying live music on the terrace.
For those planning a longer stay, nearby bed-and-breakfasts and boutique inns offer overnight accommodations with breathtaking views. Some visitors even combine their trip with hikes in the Columbia River Gorge or visits to nearby attractions like The Dalles, Columbia Hills Historical State Park, and Stonehenge Memorial.
Perfect for Newcomers Moving to Portland
For those who are new to Oregon or relocating to Portland, exploring regional destinations like Maryhill Winery offers an ideal way to connect with the area’s culture, food, and natural beauty. The winery’s relaxed pace, friendly staff, and spectacular setting make it an easy favorite.
Weekend drives to wineries like Maryhill also give newcomers a break from the bustle of relocation and a sense of what’s waiting just outside the city limits. It’s not just a place to drink wine—it’s a place to slow down and breathe.
Planning Your 2025 Visit to Maryhill Winery
Whether you’re a local or one of the many newcomers moving to Portland, a trip to Maryhill Winery offers the perfect combination of wine, nature, and Northwest hospitality. It’s not just a tasting—it’s a full sensory experience that celebrates the region’s winemaking excellence.
Plan your visit in advance, especially if attending an event. Be sure to check the Maryhill Winery website for current tasting room hours, event calendars, and travel tips. If you’re a wine lover living in or moving to Portland, this destination should be at the top of your weekend getaway list.
Request your free Portland Relocation Guide here
