Over four decades ago, our first vines were planted – very near the road that brings you to our tasting room. At the time, the Willamette Valley was a region many doubted could reach quality potential. Fortunately, a small number of determined families decided to ignore the warnings and skepticism. This small block of Pinot Noir produces fruit not only after all these growing years but premium fruit – a beautiful representation of our ideal climate.  

Our beginnings are rooted in determination, but adventure is the most vital element of our spirit. Those who knew our founder, Dan, would tell you he was a visionary and took chances. In these past few years, we certainly tapped into this spirit and experimented with our winemaking. 

Each year, our President, Beth, requests a white wine blend. As we approached the 2023 harvest, Leo felt this was the year to take a chance and create Golden Hour. The blend was Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, and Müller-Thurgau, with a slight hint of sweetness to match the feeling you get when sitting on our patio during golden hour. We hit the release button, and you sold it out in five short months. The Golden Hour was one of our fastest-selling inaugural wines! 

 

Another special wine was our 2021 Reserve Pinot Noir, released in September. Only a few bottles remain as we ring in the new year. Rated 92 points by Wine Enthusiast, it was a premium expression of the 2021 vintage. 

2021 Reserve Pinot Noir

One of Dan’s favorite events was the winemaker dinner—an intimate dinner that allows for connection to our wines and a meal specially curated by a local chef. We partnered with Chef Alex Dakers in the spring, Chef Isaiah Martinez at the Mt. Tom House over the summer, and Chef Tamisha Heacox-Jackson for an autumn delight. 

During the summer months, we welcomed The Talbott Brothers and celebrated the release of Golden Hour. Additionally, we continued our charitable partnerships with the Motiv8 Foundation and Nurturely. Over the past five years, through your enthusiasm and support, we’ve raised over $100,000 for local organizations. 

The headline for our 2024 harvest was the quality. Over the past decade, Oregon has seen high-quality vintages, but we feel 2024 might be a contender for “best vintage yet”. The reds are all in barrels and will be released beginning in 2026. You can taste this platinum-quality vintage in our white and rosé wines starting in February 2025. 

As we enter 2025, it’s a monumental milestone for Sweet Cheeks Winery. It will be the 20th year of hosting you as our community. 

To celebrate, we will release two wines in autumn: Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. In addition, we will have special merchandise throughout the year and more music events. 

Dan always believed family was who you made it to be. He would sit on the patio after riding the tractor and be humbled by the people who chose to spend their time with us and enjoy our wines. We couldn’t have done this without your support and are forever grateful.