La Chouette Vineyard — Attraction in Independence

We visited the vineyard for the Great American Eclipse, and had a wonderful stay. For this once in a lifetime spectacle, they allowed people to camp overnight on the property, and hosted an elegant dinner the evening before, and a delicious continental breakfast the day of. Lots of wine to sample (and buy... and we bought...). This event attracted an interesting an eclectic group people came out for the dinner and wine sampling, including a famous TV actor, conservationist, a family from Japan, local Salem wine enthusiasts, Wall St. power couple, and Seattle-area families. Great conversations. Got to have a long talk with the winemaker. Lot of good stuff going on here. ...

Our party of 12 celebrated my boyfriend's sister's 60th birthday at this winery and it was a lovely afternoon. They are "by appointment only" so def plan ahead. Our tasting included some welcome "bubbles" and then we tasted a rose, sauv blanc, pinot gris, a white blend, chardonnay, and a few pinot noirs. The wines were very good, the charcuterie board was phenomenal, and the owners Ben and Michelle were so friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly loved growing & making wine. They plan on building a tasting room soon, but for now the tastings take place outside on their gorgeous grounds or inside their beautiful home. We'll def be back to enjoy their wines when we return to...

Carefully crafted low production wines of high quality that are served in a gorgeous countryside location. Friendly, approachable, & knowledgeable hosts. La Chouette is a throwback to what the best Oregon wineries used to be 20 years ago before corporate influence. Quality and pricing are top notch. The white wines are delicious but the Pinot Noirs are what steal the show. A special winery. Highly...