Open: Year-round
The Winery and Vineyards are nestled in the foothills of the Gales Creek Valley, a small agricultural region within the Willamette Valley, 30 miles west of Portland. When the Shafer family started the business in 1973 they had no plans for winemaking, just grape growing on the 70 acre estate.Â
The quality of the fruit harvested proved to be exceptional, reflecting the diligent hours of care and dedication needed to grow uncompromising grapes. In the fall of 1978 after years of carefully tending the vines, a small amount of wine was produced from estate grown grapes for Shafer Vineyard Cellars. The winery's first crush was 1981, vinifing little more than 3,000 gallons. Over the years, demand for the wine pushed the winery capacity to the current production level of approximately 30,000 gallons.
The design and settling of the winery is uniquely Oregon in attitude. The simplicity of the vineyards and the quiet strength of the stately old oak trees that border the winery creates a beautiful backdrop for the cedar buildings. The gentle slope of the 2 acre oak shaded picnic area with tables and a large seated gazebo provides a wonderful natural setting. Hosts Miki and Jerry Kramer invite visitors to enjoy the facilities for picnics or to just relax and enjoy the view.
