Dwell Wines

Dwell Wines in Oregon’s Applegate Valley pairs estate Pinot Noir with a tasting room just feet from the vines. Established in 2019, the winery belongs to Brent and Linda Gee, Oklahoma natives whose second act centers on growing grapes in Southern Oregon. Their Kenyon Vineyard honors Linda’s father, Charles Kenyon Eckels, who introduces the family to the valley and remains part of the property’s identity through its name.

Pinot Noir anchors a range that also spans Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Primitivo, and rosé of Pinot Noir. The 2020 Pinot Gris earns a gold medal at the 2021 Oregon Wine Experience; the 2021 rosé and 2019 Chardonnay each hold silver medals from the 2022 competition. That breadth gives a mixed group more options than a Pinot-only tasting.

The Dwelling, Dwell Wines’ tasting room at 7281 Williams Highway in Grants Pass, opens daily from noon to 6 p.m. Tables and Adirondack chairs sit near Block 1 Pinot Noir, with the Siskiyou Mountains framing the vineyard. Build-your-own charcuterie features local cheeses, cold cuts, jams, and chocolates; locally made beer, cider, and nonalcoholic drinks give non-wine drinkers options, too. Children and leashed pets are welcome. The appeal is time beside the vines, rather than a tasting-room dash between appointments.