A classic Yamhill County winery is Amity Vineyards (18150 Amity Vineyards Rd. SE, 503/835-2362 or 888/264-8966). The tasting room is located in a huge old barn on a 500-foot hill looking out over southern Yamhill County to the Coast Range, making for some beautiful sunset views. Amity, which was founded in 1974, is one of Oregon’s oldest wineries and still has a homespun feel that belies its excellent wines.

The nearby Kristin Hill Winery (3330 SE Amity Dayton Hwy., 503/835-0850, Mar.–Dec.) specializes in a traditional “Methode Champenoise” (sparkling wine). Picnickers are welcome.

Amity wines are also featured at the Lawrence Gallery (19700 SW Hwy. 18, 503/843-3633) in Sheridan, 9 miles southwest of McMinnville on Route 18. Several dozen other Oregon wines are featured, as well as the work of a multitude of Oregon artists and craftspeople. Five acres of sweeping lawns and gardens surrounding this renovated century-old building make it even more of a reason to stop. Outdoor art pieces proliferate in these elegant landscapes at every turn. Also on-site is the Fresh Palate Cafe, open daily for wine-friendly lunches and Sunday brunch.

Not far from Amity is the monastery of the Brigittine monks (23300 Walker Lane, 503/835-8080). Their chocolate truffles and fudge are highly regarded, and the monks rent out rooms for spiritual retreats.