Portland is set to host its inaugural natural wine festival, The Wild Bunch, on March 2, 2024. The event will showcase over 60 wineries and importers from around the world, offering attendees a chance to explore a diverse array of natural wines that emphasize minimal intervention and allow the grapes to express their true character. Local winemakers like Luke Wylde of Statera Cellars exemplify this philosophy, using organic and biodynamic practices to enhance the quality of the grapes without unnecessary additives.
The Wild Bunch festival aims to make natural wine more accessible and inclusive, as emphasized by Dana Frank, the owner of Bar Norman. The event will feature wines from local producers as well as international selections from countries like France and Hungary, highlighting the global nature of the natural wine movement. In addition to celebrating natural wines, the festival supports local initiatives by partnering with organizations like AHIVOY, which focuses on providing educational opportunities for Latinx vineyard stewards.
Restaurants
Enoteca Nostrana, Portland,OR
Ava Gene’s
Address: 3377 SE Division Street, Portland, OR 97202
Ava Gene's is a Roman-inspired restaurant celebrated for its focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the restaurant features a menu that highlights house-made pasta and vegetable-forward dishes, reflecting the culinary philosophy of its founders. The restaurant has garnered positive reviews, with patrons praising its creative cuisine and warm service. Many visitors appreciate the dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients, which contribute to an authentic Italian dining experience.
In addition to its food, Ava Gene's boasts an impressive selection of regional Italian wines, creative cocktails, and a variety of amari and grappa. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the flavors of the dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations, making it easy for diners to explore new wines. Overall, Ava Gene's has established itself as a beloved spot in Portland's dining scene, attracting both locals and visitors with its commitment to quality and hospitality.
Maurice
Address: 921 SW Oak St, Portland, OR 97205
Maurice is a beloved French-Scandinavian luncheonette located at 921 SW Oak St in downtown Portland, Oregon. The restaurant, opened by chef Kristen Murray in 2013, has garnered critical acclaim for its creative menu and dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
The menu at Maurice features a unique blend of French and Nordic influences, with dishes like goat-filled bisteeya (meat pies), polenta clafouti with confit chicken heart, and desserts such as black pepper cheesecake, crème brûlée pops, and rhubarb and celery leaf cheese. The restaurant was included in Bon Appétit's "America's Best New Restaurants 2014" list and ranked number 9 in the magazine's "Hot 10" list that year.
Patrons frequently praise Maurice for its warm service, cozy atmosphere, and exceptional food. Many highlight the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations, making it easy for diners to explore the menu. The restaurant has been described as the "quintessential Portland restaurant" by food critic Ruth Reichl.
Arden
Address: 417 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Arden is a contemporary American restaurant located at 417 NW 10th Ave in Portland, Oregon. The restaurant, which opened in 2018, has received positive reviews for its creative menu and dedication to locally sourced ingredients.
The dinner menu at Arden features a variety of dishes that showcase the chef's farm-to-table approach, with options like roasted beet salad, grilled octopus, and pan-seared scallops. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes to accommodate various dietary preferences.
In addition to its food menu, Arden boasts an impressive wine list that includes a range of natural wines. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and intentionality in the world of wine is evident in its "Growing Better Wine: Conscious Wine Conversations" series, which features exclusive winemaker dinners. These dinners, limited to just 30 seats, include a four-course menu paired with wines from producers like HIYU, Kelley Fox, and Lelarge Pugeot, along with a conversation with the winemaker on topics such as biodynamic farming and climate considerations.
Arden's warm service, cozy atmosphere, and exceptional food have earned it a loyal following among Portland's food and wine enthusiasts. The restaurant's focus on sustainability and its dedication to showcasing the best of the region's produce make it a standout in the city's thriving culinary scene.
Olympia Provisions SE
Address: 107 SE Washington Street, Portland, OR 97214
Olympia Provisions SE, located at 107 SE Washington Street in Portland, is a renowned restaurant that has evolved from the city's first salumeria into a destination for refined European cuisine. Under the guidance of Chef Matthew Jarrell, the menu combines rustic Spanish and Mediterranean cooking techniques with fresh, local produce, seafood, and meats from the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant offers a casual yet elegant dining experience, serving lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Guests frequently praise Olympia Provisions for its exceptional charcuterie, which is a highlight of the menu, alongside dishes like roasted beet salad and grilled octopus. The restaurant is also known for its impressive selection of natural wines, which complement the menu beautifully. Many patrons appreciate the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience. With its commitment to quality and a warm atmosphere, Olympia Provisions SE has established itself as a favorite among both locals and visitors in Portland's vibrant culinary scene.
OK Omens
Address: 1758 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
OK Omens is a contemporary wine bar and restaurant located at 1758 SE Hawthorne Blvd in Portland, Oregon. Established in June 2018, it has quickly gained recognition for its adventurous menu and extensive wine list. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including crowd favorites such as a spicy Caesar-style salad with buttermilk fried chicken, hoisin-roasted carrots, cheddar-filled beignets, crab pasta topped with jalapeños, and gourmet burgers. The atmosphere is lively, but guests often note that the noise level can be quite high, making outdoor seating a preferred option during warmer months.
Patrons frequently praise OK Omens for its impressive selection of natural wines, which complements the menu beautifully. The restaurant has been featured in notable lists, including Wine Enthusiast's "America's 100 Best Wine Restaurants," highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation. With its focus on shareable plates and a vibrant dining experience, OK Omens has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a unique culinary experience in Portland.
Luce
Address: 2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
Luce is a popular restaurant located at 2140 E Burnside St in Portland, Oregon. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Luce offers a menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is open daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Guests can expect a diverse selection of offerings, including various meat and vegetarian options, all crafted with a commitment to quality and flavor.
Patrons frequently commend Luce for its welcoming ambiance and attentive service. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its innovative menu, which features dishes that highlight fresh, local produce. While specific mentions of natural wines were not found in the search results, Luce's focus on quality ingredients suggests that it may offer a thoughtfully curated wine list to complement its seasonal fare. Overall, Luce has established itself as a noteworthy dining destination in Portland, attracting both locals and visitors alike.
Dame
Address: 2930 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
Dame is a contemporary restaurant located at 2930 NE Killingsworth St in Portland, Oregon. Known for its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Dame offers a menu that highlights seasonal dishes and creative culinary techniques. The restaurant operates on a limited schedule, open Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and is popular for its inviting atmosphere and community-oriented vibe.
Patrons have praised Dame for its innovative menu and quality of food, often highlighting the attention to detail in each dish. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its warm service and unique offerings, making it a favorite among locals. While specific mentions of natural wines were not found in the search results, Dame's commitment to using fresh ingredients suggests that it may feature a carefully curated wine list to complement its seasonal fare. Overall, Dame has established itself as a notable dining destination in Portland, attracting both residents and visitors looking for a memorable dining experience.
"Women-owned and run, Dame is a gem in Portland's NE neighborhood off of Killingsworth. Not only do I love this restaurant because their food is amazing, but during the pandemic closure they turned the dining room into a natural wine bottle shop. Their knowledge of food and wine makes pairing a dream and in the summer head there for Happy Hour on their picnic patio tables out front for a quintessential Portland evening." - Krystal Weakley
No Saint
Address: 1603 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
No Saint is a popular pizzeria located at 1603 NE Killingsworth St in Portland, Oregon. Launched in 2019 as a pop-up by spouses Gabriella Casabianca and Anthony Siccardi, No Saint moved into a brick-and-mortar space in 2022, taking over a location previously occupied by Handsome Pizza and Seastar Bakery.
The restaurant features a wood-fired oven and offers a variety of creative pizza toppings, such as the Pepperoni Supreme with pepperoni, garlic, red onion, pepperoncini, mozzarella, ricotta, and honey. In addition to pizza, No Saint has served dishes like trenne à la vodka, calamari salad, Campari cake, spinach lasagnetta, and brassicas.
No Saint has received positive reviews, with The Oregonian ranking it number seven in a list of Portland's best new restaurants in 2023 and including it among the city's five best new pizzerias. The newspaper's Michael Russell also praised the rigatoncini a la vodka as one of the best new dishes of 2023. In 2024, Julie Evensen of The Oregonian called the pizza "inventive" in a list of seven pizza favorites to try in Portland.
Eater Portland has also recognized No Saint, with Waz Wu including it in an overview of recommended vegan pizza eateries in 2023, and Nathan Williams listing it as one of seventeen "stellar" bars and restaurants on Northeast Killingsworth. Brooke Jackson-Glidden of Eater Portland praised the restaurant's use of seasonal produce and interesting flavor combinations.
Wine Bars
Bar Norman, Portland, OR
Bar Diane
Address: Entrance on NW 21st Ave through the gate next to Eb & Bean, Portland, OR 97210
Bar Diane is a natural wine bar and kitchen located in Portland, Oregon, with its entrance on NW 21st Ave, next to Eb & Bean. This cozy spot has quickly gained popularity for its curated selection of natural wines and a menu that complements its offerings. The bar operates from 4 PM to 10 PM on weekdays and 4 PM to 9 PM on Sundays, featuring an "Apéro Hour" from 4 PM to 5 PM nightly, where guests can enjoy special offerings.
Visitors frequently praise Bar Diane for its inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, who are eager to help patrons explore the diverse wine selection. The bar not only serves wine but also offers a menu of delicious small plates designed to pair well with their wines. This combination of quality beverages and food has made Bar Diane a favorite among locals and wine enthusiasts looking to experience the natural wine movement in Portland.
Les Caves
Address: 1719 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211
Les Caves is a unique subterranean wine bar located at 1719 NE Alberta St in Portland, Oregon. This cozy venue specializes in rare and natural wines, offering a curated selection that appeals to wine enthusiasts looking for something special. The rustic cave-like setting enhances the experience, providing an intimate atmosphere for guests to enjoy their wine alongside limited snacks.
Visitors often describe Les Caves as a hidden gem, with its charming and cozy ambiance making it a perfect spot for casual gatherings or quiet evenings. The bar has received positive reviews for its knowledgeable staff, who are eager to help patrons navigate the diverse wine offerings. With its focus on natural wines and a welcoming environment, Les Caves has established itself as a favorite destination for wine lovers in Portland.
Enoteca Nostrana
Address: 1401 SE Morrison St Ste 105, Portland, OR 97214
Enoteca Nostrana is a wine bar located at 1401 SE Morrison St Ste 105 in Portland, Oregon. It is directly next door to the flagship restaurant Nostrana, which is owned by acclaimed chef Cathy Whims.
Enoteca Nostrana opened in April 2018 and offers a curated selection of wines, with a focus on natural and Italian varietals. The wine bar operates in the evenings, with dinner service Monday through Saturday.
Patrons have praised Enoteca Nostrana for its inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about wine. The wine bar complements its impressive beverage program with a menu of small plates designed to pair well with the wines.
With its cozy setting and commitment to quality, Enoteca Nostrana has quickly become a favorite among Portland's wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore the natural wine movement in a welcoming environment.
"The wine bar next door to James Beard nominee Cathy Whim's restaurant, Nostrana, this wine bar will not disappoint. I love the wide selection of wines as well as the amazing food you can order alongside it (handmade pastas and wood fire pizzas). A favorite for taking out of towners or just heading to grab a fun dinner with my local friends." - Krystal Weakley
Enoteca Nostrana
Address: 7835 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97215
Vino Veritas is a charming natural wine bar located at 7835 SE Stark St in Portland, Oregon. This cozy establishment focuses on offering a carefully curated selection of natural wines, emphasizing organic and biodynamic practices. The bar creates an inviting atmosphere for wine enthusiasts to explore various unique and flavorful wines from both local and international producers.
Guests often praise Vino Veritas for its knowledgeable staff, who are passionate about natural wines and eager to share their insights. The wine list features a diverse range of options, ensuring that there is something for everyone, whether they are seasoned wine drinkers or newcomers to the natural wine scene. In addition to its impressive wine offerings, Vino Veritas provides a selection of small plates and snacks designed to pair beautifully with the wines, making it a perfect spot for casual gatherings or intimate evenings.
"Head a little farther southeast and you'll find Vino Veritas, a wine bar/bottle shop with over 400 wines to choose from. Their staff is some of the nicest around and they have a great patio for spring/summer. I love this place because it's the perfect neighborhood spot to drink with friends and feel completely at ease and welcome." - Krystal Weakley
Address: 148 B Avenue, Suite 200, Lake Oswego, Oregon 97034
Beso Bar & Bottle is a European-inspired wine bar located at 148 B Avenue, Suite 200, in Lake Oswego, Oregon, approximately eight miles south of Portland. This establishment offers a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy a selection of wines throughout the day, making it a perfect spot for casual gatherings or a relaxing evening out.
The bar is known for its focus on natural wines, providing patrons with a diverse range of options that highlight organic and biodynamic practices. Beso Bar & Bottle aims to create an inviting experience for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike, with knowledgeable staff ready to assist in selecting the perfect bottle to complement their visit. The combination of a welcoming environment and a carefully curated wine list makes Beso Bar & Bottle a notable addition to the local wine scene in Lake Oswego.
Address: 4243 SE Belmont ST #300 Portland, OR 97215
Nil Wine Bar, located at 4243 SE Belmont St, Unit 300 in Portland, Oregon, is a charming and minimalist wine bar that has quickly become a favorite among locals. Known for its cozy atmosphere, Nil offers a carefully curated selection of wines, including many natural and unique varietals. The bar is tucked away on the bustling Belmont street, making it a perfect spot for wine enthusiasts looking for a relaxed yet stylish environment to enjoy a glass or two.
Patrons appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are eager to help guests navigate the diverse wine list. The bar's hours are designed to accommodate various schedules, opening at 4 PM on weekdays and offering extended hours on weekends. With its focus on quality wines and a welcoming ambiance, Nil Wine Bar has established itself as a notable destination in Portland's vibrant wine scene, attracting both casual drinkers and serious wine lovers alike.
Wine Shops
Hollywood Beverage
Address: 3028 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97232
Hollywood Beverage is a popular liquor store located at 3028 NE Sandy Blvd in Portland, Oregon. It is known for its extensive selection of liquor, beer, and wine, as well as its knowledgeable and friendly staff.
The store offers over 1,000 local craft and import beers, as well as an impressive array of over 650 fine wines in its 5,000 square-foot space. Hollywood Beverage also carries a wide range of liquor and cocktail mixers, cigars, tobacco products, and barware accessories.
Patrons frequently praise the store's helpful staff, who go out of their way to assist customers in finding specific items or making recommendations. The store is open late on weekends and even on Sundays for added convenience.
In addition to its extensive selection, Hollywood Beverage is known for hosting in-store tastings on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 4 PM to 6 PM, where customers can sample new and exciting offerings from various distillery partners.
With its convenient location, impressive inventory, and exceptional customer service, Hollywood Beverage has become a go-to destination for beer, wine, and liquor enthusiasts in Portland.
Well Spent Market
Address: 935 Northeast Couch Street, Portland, OR, 97232
Well Spent Market is a hidden gem located at 935 Northeast Couch Street in Portland, Oregon. This unique market offers a wide range of high-quality pantry staples from around the world, allowing customers to elevate their meals with exceptional ingredients.
The market occupies a freestanding 1500 square foot building situated in the heart of the Central Eastside, at the corner of NE 10th and Couch, within the lower Burnside core. The property, built in 1949, sits on a 3500 square foot lot in the Kerns neighborhood.
Well Spent Market has established itself as a go-to destination for food enthusiasts seeking to explore new flavors and elevate their culinary experiences. With its carefully curated selection of products from around the globe and its convenient location in the vibrant Central Eastside, Well Spent Market has become a beloved part of Portland's thriving food scene.
Division Wines
Address: 3564 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
Division Wines is a charming wine shop and bar located at 3564 SE Division St in Portland, Oregon. This neighborhood spot offers a curated selection of over 800 wines, featuring both local varieties and unique bottles from around the world. The establishment has become a favorite for wine enthusiasts, thanks to its knowledgeable staff and inviting atmosphere.
Patrons frequently commend Division Wines for its friendly service and the opportunity to enjoy wines by the glass, as well as beer on tap and low-proof cocktails. The wine bar also offers wine flights, allowing guests to sample different selections, which many find to be a great way to explore new flavors. Additionally, the shop provides a selection of meats and cheeses, enhancing the overall experience. With its combination of retail and tasting options, Division Wines has established itself as a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy quality wines in a relaxed setting.
"Division Wines is one of my favorite wine shops in town. Located off of busy Division Street, you can grab a glass of wine at this spot then leave with a great bottle from a local producer or a natural wine from anywhere in the world. The shop is not exclusively natural wine, but their team is super friendly and helpful in finding exactly what you need in your price range." - Krystal Weakley
Ardor
Address: 4243 SE Belmont St UNIT 400, Portland, OR 97215
Ardor is a natural wine shop located at 4243 SE Belmont St, Unit 400 in Portland, Oregon. This establishment specializes in offering a diverse selection of 100% natural wines, focusing on small local producers as well as unique selections from around the world. Ardor aims to create a welcoming space for wine enthusiasts to explore and discover new flavors.
The shop operates from 12 PM to 8 PM, Monday through Tuesday, and has received positive reviews for its knowledgeable staff and friendly atmosphere. Customers appreciate the curated selection and often highlight the opportunity to learn more about natural wines through the shop's offerings. Additionally, Ardor features a wine club for those looking to regularly enjoy curated selections, making it a notable destination for anyone interested in the natural wine movement in Portland.
100% Natural Wine Shop in Southeast Portland. Find anything from small local natural wines from the Willamette Valley to obscure wines from small vineyards in France. I love this shop because you're guaranteed to find some totally unique wines you'll want to keep going back to. This is where I found my love for Swick Wines here in the Pacific Northwest!" - Krystal Weakley
Oregon Natural Winemakers
Note that most are small and probably don’t do tours, but it doesn’t mean you can’t seek out their wines! Check site by site for options:
Joe Swick - We carry him as well!
Montebruno
Maloof - We carry them on our store!
Also, I want to take a moment to give a HUGE thank you to our local contributors! Find them below with their social and links if you want to see people drinking the best natural wine in Portland!
Now back to you! Did we miss some? Where do you love to get natural wine? Let us know in the comments or on social!
Comment
Fossil & Fawn makes amazing natural wines, and Johan Vineyards, also!