Distill My Beating Heart: A New Whiskey Package At The Dundee Hotel
There’s a whispered secret in Oregon Wine Country, one that tumbles out after a few tastings and a smile: Not everyone drinks wine. We know, we know—say it quietly in Dundee, where Pinot Noir reigns supreme. But here’s the thing: this lush valley doesn’t just grow grapes. It crafts spirits—exceptional, complex, award-winning spirits—and it does so with the same passion and precision you find in any fine winery.
At The Dundee Hotel, we’re thrilled to be a lodging sponsor of the Wine Country Whiskey Trail, a spirited journey through the heart of Oregon’s craft distilling scene. To help you experience it, we’ve created a brand-new “Whiskey Package,” offering tastings at three of the trail’s most acclaimed distilleries: Ransom Spirits, Branch Point Distillery, and Bull Run Distilling. “Sure,” you might think, “but what’s the cost?” And we’re so glad you asked! Because this Dundee-Hotel-only-deal runs at $150 for up two people—a steal when you consider what’s in your glass.
Whether you’re a lifelong whiskey lover or a curious cocktail drinker, this package offers a deep dive into the artistry of Oregon distilling—while still giving you plenty of time for Pinot if that’s also your pleasure. So, let’s raise a glass (or three) to your next adventure in flavor!
First up (in no particular order): Ransom Spirits – Where Innovation Meets Tradition
Right here in Dundee, tucked inside the stylish tasting room at Duck Pond Cellars, Ransom Spirits offers a perfect detour for anyone craving something stronger than Pinot. Known as a pioneer in Oregon’s craft distilling scene, Ransom brings decades of expertise—and a whole lot of character—to their beautifully curated whiskey and gin flights.
What to Try:
Go for a whiskey flight to taste the full breadth of their craft. Depending when you go, it might include their signature Emerald (a richly herbal Irish-style whiskey), a smooth barley and wheat blend, and/or perhaps a limited-edition small-batch selection you won’t find elsewhere. Curious about gin? Their barrel-aged Old Tom Gin is a total showstopper, and whiskey lovers will feel right at home with its oaky backbone.
Why It’s Special:
The Dundee location makes it effortlessly easy to work spirits into your wine-tasting weekend. Plus, Ransom shares the space with Duck Pond, so you can compare bold reds and bold bourbons in one stop. It’s a win-win for couples or groups with a split tasting palate.
Second Stop: Branch Point Distillery – Bold Whiskey, Zero Apologies
If you like your spirits bold, nuanced, and made entirely from scratch, Branch Point Distillery in Dayton is your dream stop. Just a quick hop from The Dundee Hotel, this distillery is all about grain-to-glass production. That means no shortcuts. No blends. Just pure, locally grown grains, fermented, distilled, and aged on-site.
Their whiskey lineup leans adventurous, with Pacific Northwest mash bills that showcase unique barley and rye varietals.
What to Try:
You must try their Single Malt Whiskey, which has a deep, nutty richness with hints of caramel and roasted grain. Or go for the Straight Rye: it’s spicy, dry, and exceptionally sippable. And if you’re visiting during the warmer months of the year, don’t skip Branch Point’s seasonal cocktails made with house spirits and garden-fresh herbs.
Why It’s Special:
Branch Point is doing something few others in the U.S. are doing: fully house-made, single-grain whiskey that reflects Oregon’s agricultural bounty. You’ll taste the difference immediately, but be prepared: you’ll probably want to bring home a bottle (or maybe even two).
Third (and final) Stop: Bull Run Distilling
Once a Portland favorite, Bull Run Distilling has brought its big whiskey energy to the heart of Carlton, making it easier than ever to sample their award-winning spirits right here in wine country. Their new tasting room has all the swagger of the city, with the warm welcome of a small-town bar. This is one of those places you’ll feel like a regular even upon your first visit.
What to Try:
Start with their American Whiskey, a smooth, full-bodied pour with notes of butterscotch, spice, and toasted oak. Love something stronger? Don’t skip the Cask Strength Bourbon, which packs a punch (in the very best way). Bull Run also offers seasonal cocktails; so if you’re in the mood for something shaken or stirred, don’t be shy to ask what’s fresh!
Why It’s Special:
Bull Run brings decades of distilling expertise to the table, and their Carlton tasting room is a whiskey lover’s dream—laid-back, but serious about flavor. It’s the perfect spot to wind down after a day of wine tasting… or to start your own version of happy hour, whiskey-style!
Why Try the Whiskey Package?
You came to wine country for a reason—but let’s be honest: variety is the spice of vacation. The Dundee Whiskey Package offers a refreshing detour at a steal of a price, especially for those who love discovering small-batch excellence.
To summarize: with The Dundee Hotel’s Whiskey Package, you get:
- Tastings for two at three distilleries
- An immersive look at Oregon’s craft distilling scene
- A perfect balance to your wine tasting itinerary
It’s a chance to slow down, sip something new, and toast to a vacation that goes beyond the usual vineyard tour.
Pro Tips for Your Spirited Adventure:
- Make a day of it: For example: visit Ransom and Branch Point on the same afternoon—they’re a short drive apart (about 10 minutes).
- Bring snacks or plan a stop for lunch: Many distilleries don’t serve food, but our staff has great recommendations nearby!
- Ask questions: The folks behind the bar love talking about fermentation, barrels, and all things whiskey.
- Stock up: These are small-batch producers. So if you fall in love with something, take it home while you can!
Ready to Book?
When reserving your room at The Dundee Hotel, be sure to let us know you’d like to add this package, and we’ll take care of the rest! Directions, tasting times, and a few insider tips… whatever your questions are, we’ve got you!
So whether you’re a lifelong whiskey lover, a spirits-curious wine drinker, or someone who just likes to explore something new, we invite you to sip your way off the beaten path. Your glass—and your getaway—just got a whole lot more interesting.