Recommended wines

The many, many, many winery events that happen during Memorial Day weekend can get a little overwhelming, so we asked wine editor Victor Panichkul for some top picks.

Domaine Drouhin Oregon

Try a bit of France right here in Oregon. When the French heard of Oregon's potential for pinot noir, the Drouhin family came to start a vineyard.

Enjoy wine tastings. Groups of eight or more must make appointments in advance, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 6750 NE Breyman Orchards Road, Dayton. Cost: $10 tasting fee (refunded with $100 purchase). Contact: (503) 864-2700, www.domainedrouhin.com.

Argyle Winery

One of Argyle's claims to fame is its sparking wines, which have often been served at the White House. It's Oregon's largest producer of sparkling wine.

Enjoy live music, wine tastings and cheese and crackers in the wine cellar, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 691 Highway 99W, Dundee. Cost: $15. Contact: (503) 538-8520, www.argylewinery.com.

Bethel Heights Vineyard

Bethel Heights boasts beautiful views of the rolling vineyards and mountains from the deck and wonderful wines.

Tall Jazz will perform from 1 to 5 p.m. each day. Taste new releases from the 2007 and 2008 vintages. Wine friendly food included, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday through Monday, 6060 Bethel Heights Road NW. Cost: $10 tasting fee. No charge for Cellar Club Members, children and designated drivers. Contact: (503) 581-2262, www.bethelheights.com.

Willamette Valley Vineyards

This is one of the largest wineries in the valley with great wine values. It's also close to Salem, for those who don't want to go too far.

Blind taste and match world-class pinot noir to its respective appellation of origin, including a Domaine de le Romanée Conti and other grand crus. Also celebrate Oregon's bounty with barrel tasting, grilled Oregon Lamb from the Oregon Lamb Coalition, gourmet cheeses, music and much more, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday through Monday, 8800 Enchanted Way SE, Turner. Cost: $5 admission includes hors d'ourves, wine samples and entry into contest. Contact: (503) 588-9463.

Van Duzer Vineyards

Check out the great views of Baskett Slough National Wildlife refuge from their patio — and be sure to try their wonderful rosé.

New spring releases and other treats. Tour the winery or relax on the patio, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday through Monday, 11975 Smithfield Road, Dallas. Cost: $10 tasting fee. Contact: (503) 623-6420 or ww.vanduzer.com.