When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Amaterra Winery
Why Amaterra Winery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Amaterra Winery offers a unique and inviting experience perfect for meeting up with friends or celebrating special occasions. Nestled in the scenic West Hills of Portland, this state-of-the-art, gravity-flow winery combines advanced winemaking techniques with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Visitors enjoy sampling a diverse selection of carefully crafted wines, including standout varietals like the Nemarniki Pinot Noir and the acclaimed 2021 Willamette Valley Chardonnay. The spacious winery features sweeping valley views, elegant architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. Beyond its wines, Amaterra offers a chef-driven culinary experience that highlights the seasonal bounty of the Pacific Northwest, creating a thoughtful pairing of food and wine. With its relaxed yet refined setting, guests can enjoy the outdoors on the Terrace Lawn or inside the stylish Skyline Ballroom, making Amaterra the perfect place to gather for tastings, meals, or celebrations. The venue is also well-suited for hosting weddings and private events, featuring multiple elegant spaces including a rock waterfall, reflecting pools, and expansive outdoor decks. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful place to connect with friends, Amaterra’s blend of quality, ambiance, and service sets it apart as a great destination in Portland.
Here's what people think of Amaterra Winery
As of recent, Amaterra Winery holds a 4.4-star rating based on 357 reviews.
Reviews of Amaterra Winery generally praise the quality of the wines and the beautiful ambiance of the venue. Many guests highlight the unique and sophisticated winemaking approach, noting impressive varietals like the Nemarniki Pinot Noir and the Willamette Valley Chardonnay, which have garnered favorable acclaim. Reviewers appreciate the attentive and friendly service, emphasizing that the staff create a warm and welcoming environment that enhances the overall experience. Positive feedback often mentions the serene location with expansive views and the thoughtful combination of wine and seasonal cuisine, making it a standout spot for visitors seeking something special in Portland. However, some negative reviews focus primarily on the food quality and pricing, describing the culinary offerings as overpriced and inconsistent, with a few guests expressing disappointment with their meals despite enjoying the wine and atmosphere. Despite some critiques regarding the dining experience, the consensus is that Amaterra delivers excellent wines and a stunning setting that make it worth a visit. Overall, the reviews reflect a blend of admiration for the winery’s dedication to craft and aesthetics, offset by some concerns about the value and food, positioning Amaterra as a distinguished but occasionally divisive destination in Portland’s wine scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kirstyn Mick
My husband and I absolutely loved it here. We are new to Portland and the scenery was beautiful! The waterfall was an exquisite touch to the scenery. We will be dining here again in the future! Besitos to the chef! 🧑🍳 😊❤️
Vladislava Kursheva
That place left me with an unclear opinion about my experience. Looks like everything should work out perfectly: lovely location, neat surroundings, and mouthwatering menu. But somehow I left unplesed. Food was hiding under the thick layer of sauces and even the manager confirmed, that they were not able to do dressings on the side (so, that's a sign for me that everything is premade and not freshly cooked). He also told us that all the produce comes from the farm markets. Still not the proov is anything of that anything is organic or natural. Scallops were dried and overcooked, but I can confess, risotto was beyond delicious, fresh and tasty. I'm not a drinker, so I can’t tell if the wine is worthy, but this is definitely not the place for delicacies healthy diner.
Brian Ahn
My friends and I had an amazing time at Amaterra. If I had to say one dish that stood out from the rest, it would be the cauliflower. The crispy batter and the amazing sauce made this cauliflower taste better any fried chicken. Other foods were all decent, but I wouldn't revisit the scallops. It tasted like a fancy green curry with a perfectly cooked scallop. The green curry like sauce over powered the sweet scallop, which was disappointing. I gave this review a 5 star because of the amazing service I received from the employees. Thank you for making our night! Also if you had to choose one wine from here, I would recommend the Rose of Pinot. Give it a try, it won't disappoint you 😉
Jazmine Ortiz
I've been twice to Amaterra and the food has been high standard and excellent to taste. Seasonal menus have rocked my world, and I've thoroughly enjoyed tasting winter and now spring menu. My favorites have been the ribeye steak, the surf and turf, the bass and their toffee chocolate chip cookie and their creme brulee! The servers are always great and I always feel welcome. Eating good food with that amazing view can't be beat.
YMC
Amaterra Winery—every dish is crafted with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The chef’s attention to detail in presentation makes each plate unique and delicious. If I could rate it, it would definitely be Michelin-star worthy! The wine selection is exceptional, offering a perfect balance of richness and complexity. From bold reds to crisp whites, each glass highlights the winery’s dedication to quality. The pairings enhance the dining experience, making every sip as memorable as the food. It was love at first sight, and I couldn’t resist signing up for a membership—Le Champ. Customer Service Taylor and Tyler stand out with their experience and extensive knowledge, making the experience even better. However, some staff members lack experience, and there’s always room for improvement. Suggestions for Improvement: 1. A warm smile and friendly greeting go a long way. 2. More training on wine knowledge to enhance recommendations. 3. Improved attentiveness to guests’ needs, such as timely refills and follow-ups. With a few refinements, Amaterra Winery could truly be an unmatched experience in every aspect!
How to reach Amaterra Winery
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Why rally at Amaterra Winery with your friends?
Amaterra Winery offers an exceptional setting for gathering with friends due to its blend of breathtaking natural beauty, outstanding wine, and a convivial atmosphere that encourages connection. Nestled in the slopes of Portland’s West Hills, this winery boasts panoramic views of the lush Willamette Valley, providing a serene backdrop perfect for socializing or celebrating special moments. The winery’s name, meaning “for the love of the earth,” reflects its commitment to sustainability and quality, resonating with those who appreciate mindful experiences. Whether you and your group are wine aficionados or casual sippers, Amaterra offers a diverse selection of meticulously crafted wines produced using an innovative gravity-flow process, ensuring the finest aromas and flavors in every glass. Beyond just sipping wine, the venue fosters a warm ambiance with its modern yet inviting tasting rooms and chef-driven cuisine, making it an ideal place to enjoy conversation, laughter, and memorable moments. The combination of excellent food, extraordinary wine, and an inspiring setting makes Amaterra Winery a standout destination for friends seeking to connect over an elevated yet relaxed experience.
What activities are available for groups at Amaterra Winery?
Amaterra Winery offers a variety of activities tailored for group enjoyment, making it a perfect spot for a meetup with friends or family. One of the main draws is the wine tasting experience, where groups can explore seasonal flight options or select wines by the glass or bottle. This tasting session not only highlights the unique terroir of the Pacific Northwest but also introduces guests to exclusive varietals like the standout Nemarniki Pinot Noir. The tasting rooms provide enough space for social groups to comfortably share and discuss their favorite picks. Alongside wine tasting, the winery's onsite restaurant emphasizes a chef-driven menu that harnesses the seasonal bounty of the region. This thoughtful food pairing elevates the tasting experience and invites groups to linger over shared plates and full meals. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the expansive outdoor event lawn, perfect for casual mingling or a celebratory picnic with a panoramic valley view. The winery also hosts private events, allowing groups to customize their gatherings, ranging from small celebrations to larger social occasions, leveraging both the indoor ambiance and outdoor scenic beauty. With flexible operating hours—including afternoon tastings and evening dinners—the venue caters to a range of schedules, ensuring that groups can enjoy their time together regardless of the hour.
Why is Amaterra Winery perfect for a group meetup?
Amaterra Winery's blend of remarkable wines, culinary excellence, and a stunning location makes it particularly suited for group meetups. The spacious and stylish tasting rooms allow for intimate gatherings without crowding, facilitating easy conversation and social flow among friends and family. Its location high on the Portland West Hills not only offers a cooler, more relaxing environment but also affords breathtaking views, an experience that naturally encourages patrons to slow down and enjoy each other’s company. The winery’s innovative gravity-flow production system ensures that every wine served is of superior quality, which impresses even seasoned wine enthusiasts in the group. Meanwhile, the seasonal and locally sourced menu at Amaterra Kitchen complements the wines perfectly, providing a range of American and grill dishes that accommodate diverse tastes and dietary preferences in your party. The winery’s operation hours also provide flexibility for both casual afternoon visits and more elaborate evening dinners, making it easy to plan around different group members’ availability. Additionally, the welcoming staff and membership options enhance the personalized experience, encouraging repeated visits for future meetups, turning Amaterra into a beloved social hub.
What is unique about the wine experience at Amaterra Winery?
The wine experience at Amaterra Winery is distinguished by its state-of-the-art gravity-flow winemaking process, which is rare and designed for the gentlest handling of fruit. This innovative technique uses elevation drops, including bridge cranes, to move grapes and juice without pumps, minimizing oxidation and preserving the delicate aromatics and structure of the wine. This careful attention results in wines that are notably balanced, vibrant, and expressive—qualities that guests can discern with every sip. Amaterra’s commitment to quality and terroir shines through in their seasonal tasting flights, which provide a curated journey through the different varieties and styles cultivated on their estate vineyard. The winery’s focus on local Oregon terroir, combined with its advanced winemaking methods, creates wines that are uniquely representative of the Pacific Northwest landscape. For groups, this translates into an engaging tasting adventure where each bottle and pour tells a story. Beyond the technical aspects, the passion and expertise of the winemaking team elevate the experience, making tastings both educational and enjoyable for novices and connoisseurs alike.
How does Amaterra Winery’s dining experience enhance group visits?
Amaterra Winery’s dining experience complements its wine offerings and deeply enhances visits for groups by providing a chef-driven menu that celebrates the Pacific Northwest’s seasonal produce. The kitchen’s focus is on mindful, elevated cuisine that pairs perfectly with the winery’s selection, giving guests a complete sensory experience of taste and aroma. The menu features American and grill-style dishes crafted to suit diverse palates and dietary needs, making it easy for large groups to find options everyone will enjoy. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with a blend of modern elegance and rustic charm that encourages guests to relax and share meals at leisure. The ability to transition effortlessly from wine tasting to dinner or bar service within the same venue makes Amaterra particularly convenient for groups — no need to change locations or worry about coordinating multiple plans. With dedicated hours for snack and tasting menus during the afternoon and a full dinner service in the evening, groups can tailor their visit to suit preferences, either meeting for light bites and wine or a more elaborate meal. This seamless integration of food and wine ensures that group visits are memorable not only for the quality of the wines but also for the rich, satisfying culinary experience.
What kind of atmosphere and setting does Amaterra Winery provide for gatherings?
Amaterra Winery offers a uniquely scenic and serene setting that elevates any gathering into a treasured occasion. Situated on a 12-acre vineyard perched on the west hills overlooking the Willamette Valley, the venue provides sweeping views that set a breathtaking natural backdrop for socializing. This elevated vantage point offers guests a tranquil escape from urban bustle while still being just minutes from downtown Portland, making it accessible yet exclusive. The architectural design of the winery, including spacious tasting rooms and a charming outdoor event lawn, fosters an open, airy atmosphere where groups can spread out comfortably without sacrificing intimacy. The ambiance is a harmonious balance of contemporary sophistication and rustic warmth, appealing to a wide demographic, from seasoned wine lovers to casual visitors. Whether your group is celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meetup, the natural surroundings combined with refined indoor spaces encourage relaxation, conversation, and connection. The environment truly embodies the ethos of “for the love of the earth,” inviting visitors to experience Oregon’s beauty alongside fine wine and friendly company.
What makes Amaterra Winery an ideal location for private events?
Amaterra Winery’s combination of stunning location, flexible spaces, and attentive service makes it an excellent venue for private events and group gatherings. The winery’s outdoor event lawn is perfect for celebrations that benefit from open-air ambiance, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or casual corporate mixers, where guests can enjoy fresh air and exceptional views of the valley. Indoors, the tasting rooms and dining spaces offer elegance and comfort, suitable for more formal or intimate gatherings. The staff is experienced in accommodating various group sizes and needs, providing tailored assistance with event planning, menu customization, and wine pairing recommendations to ensure an effortless and enjoyable experience. The winery also promotes a sense of exclusivity and connection to Oregon’s terroir, enhancing the appeal for guests seeking a memorable venue that reflects quality and care. Combined with nearby urban convenience and a welcoming community atmosphere, Amaterra enables hosts to craft unique celebrations that leave lasting impressions on their guests.
What are the operating hours and best times to visit Amaterra Winery for groups?
Amaterra Winery operates with convenient hours that accommodate both daytime and evening visits, providing options for groups to choose a time that best suits their plans. In Portland, wine tastings and snack menus are typically available from around noon to mid-afternoon during weekdays and weekends, with dinner and bar service extending into the evening hours, usually up to 9 or 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule offers flexibility for groups who want to start with an afternoon tasting or gather later for dinner and drinks. The winery is closed on Mondays in Portland, so planning a visit from Tuesday through Sunday ensures access to all amenities. The approachability of afternoon tastings combined with refined evening dining options makes it ideal for groups seeking either a casual meetup or a more elaborate night out. Precise hours can vary slightly by location, so it’s recommended to check current schedules and make reservations to accommodate larger parties smoothly. The winery’s blend of relaxed afternoon energy and lively evening social scenes caters well to varied group dynamics and preferences.
Amaterra Winery stands out as a premier destination for group meetups due to its outstanding wines, gourmet cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, and unparalleled scenic location. Its visionary winemaking techniques and dedication to quality create a tasting experience that is both educational and pleasurable. The venue’s flexible spaces and diverse operating hours cater perfectly to group dynamics, whether for casual afternoon tastings or celebratory dinners. The combination of all these elements makes Amaterra Winery an ideal place to gather, savor, and create lasting memories with friends and family.