Great wine, animals, people and hospitality in the Laurelwood District AVA.
The Vibe
Approaching Benza is just a short drive into the countryside from Portland. Suddenly you make a turn downhill through a scenic driveway, flanked by vineyard plots on either side — you might almost miss the tasting room if it weren't for the signage.
Once parked, you walk around the building to the tasting area. Glasses, charcuterie spreads, and guests are peppered around the tables sprawling across the outdoor patio. Grass and vegetation make the entire venue feel alive, and the homey setting creates a comfortable, approachable feeling. The wine speaks for itself — critic scores agree on that point (see their 2019 Symphony Pinot Noir).
Family animals including chickens, cats, and dogs will likely make themselves known throughout your stay. The laid-back outdoor patio has a white picket fence with an opening to walk through the vineyard and look out as it descends into the thick Laurelwood forest. Benza has a highly attentive quality to the wine, aesthetic, and tasting experience that leaves you both relaxed and impressed.
Photo: Benza Vineyards
About
Nestled in the rolling hills of Laurel — just 35 minutes from Portland — Benza Vineyards is a quintessential boutique winery embodying the spirit of Oregon's Willamette Valley. Established in 2017 by Ron Benza and Trish Damkroger, the vineyard spans 15 acres and specializes in Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.
Ron's passion for winemaking was ignited during his time in Paris and Brussels in the 1980s. After years in advertising and executive leadership, he and Trish sought a place to cultivate their dream. Oregon aligned, and in 2017 they transformed a 22-year-old vineyard in Hillsboro into Benza. Several years of consistent work — farming, winemaking, hosting, marketing, and all the miscellaneous tasks that present themselves when starting a winery — resulted in a loyal club membership, rave reviews, and a strong local fanbase.
The Vineyard and Its Terroir
Situated at elevations between 400 and 450 feet, the vineyard benefits from Laurelwood soils — volcanic rock beneath windblown silt — ideal for producing rich, spicy Pinot Noir. The vineyard's location within the Laurelwood District AVA contributes to the distinct character of its wines.
Wines & Winemaker
Paden West, a musician and winemaker, came on board as full-time winemaker in 2022 and found a great home. Working with old-growth vines already on the property, he has also innovated with available space — notably a recently planted Syrah block.
Benza offers a diverse portfolio across a modest production of around 2,600 cases:
- 2022 Pinot Gris Reserve — Aged in oak, presenting hints of vanilla and toasty caramel.
- 2022 Touch of Gold Estate Chardonnay — Named after the owners' horse, balancing acidity with stone fruit and green apple.
- 2021 Symphony Pinot Noir — Sourced from three vineyards across nested AVAs, red fruit with a hint of pepper. 93 points, James Suckling.
- 2018 Estate Pinot Noir — Richer and spicier, with dark cherry and earthy notes.
- 2022 Borderlands Syrah — Sourced from the Rocks District in eastern Oregon, depth with subtle funk characteristic of the region.
Photo: Benza Vineyards
The Tasting Experience
Visitors can enjoy tastings in the indoor space known as "The Stables" or on the outdoor porch and lawn overlooking the vineyard. The winery is family-friendly and welcomes leashed dogs. Tastings run Thursday through Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM — $40 per person, waived with an $80 wine purchase or club sign-up.
A Community-Centric Approach
Beyond the wine, Benza fosters a genuine sense of community. The owners and staff are known for their hospitality, treating visitors like family and sharing the stories behind each wine and the vineyard's history.
A Personal Note
I have a lot of gratitude for Ron, Trish, Paden, and Alicia, the tasting room manager. Benza is where I got my start in the wine industry, and I could not have had a better launching point or a more inviting place to learn. The place taught me everything about Oregon viticulture and what people most enjoy when visiting a vineyard — and it's where I got the inspiration to start Hidden Vineyards Wine Tours, including the idea for the name.
Visit & Wine Tours
All of Benza's information — address, reservations, and open hours — can be found at benza.com.
If you'd like to include Benza on your Oregon wine tour, you can request them when booking online or reach out directly and we'll work it into the itinerary.
Cheers and enjoy exploring the Willamette Valley.
