As Covid 19 has raged on and we pass the 300 days mark the Herald has worked hard to scout out options for those of you who need an outlet. Leaving the office, your home, your zoom-room, or even just getting out of your car, are all things that require some thought and precautions. In these times going for a walk and the simpler things have become real blessings. But where can you safely go for a meal or something essential to the soul like having a glass of wine?
For me, a recent find has been D’Anu Tasting Room and Wine Bar at 173 NE 3rd Street, #107, Hillsboro, Oregon. We have been going to D’Anu on and off for a couple of years. The well-regarded wine bar has an awesome array of wines and some terrific eats. But as COVID swept over us and restrictions came the experience was severely affected. We could not sit and enjoy the ambiance of the beauty of the place- so the desired effect of a relaxing glass of Pinot Noir or Tempranillo was not the same. Lest I sound pretentious let me say the wine is great at the property or at home. But sitting and taking a pause from the mad mad world is what so many of us need.
About 3 weeks ago local foodie and wine lover Vern Pursley called to tell me he was fireside at D’Anu. Just after 6 PM we met around the new fire table and enjoyed an outdoor glass. A light mist of rain was upon us but the outdoor tent provided was a terrific cover. As the fresh air blew through and the wine poured I realized that Friday night was just perfect for the first time in a long time. By the time the fresh almonds came out of the roaster and the cheese board came out I truly felt human again.
“Northwest Wines Crafted with Alaskan Spirit and an Oregonian Sense of Mother Earth”
Our wines reflect Alaska, the Last Frontier, by demonstrating balance between the old world and the new world. We remain grounded in our practices of farming and winemaking and allow each vintage to express the character of their vineyard.
See the D’Anu website for more information about this outstanding wine and food venue in Hillsboro, Oregon
Owner Joe Williams has deep ties to the food and hospitality industry. His time in Alaska and the Pacific NW has given him a specific skill set that makes him uniquely skilled to bring wine to the world. While I am no wine expert I do know what great wine tastes like. And Joe is making it from grapes he selects from around the Region and his expertise is obvious. A very reasonable $20 to $25 dollar price point for some great selections will get you a fantastic wine. I am a Pinot Noir person- like many people. The D’Anu Pinots are wonderful. Vern introduced me to the Tempranillo and I am loving that too.
Small bites are made in the kitchen to enjoy with the wine and these freshly roasted almonds and the cheeses are perfect every time I have them. In total, the experience at D’Anu in the outdoor spaces will please anyone who goes for a visit. We wanted to thank Joe and D’Anu for making a place for those of us who really need and want a place to visit. I am now a regular on Friday’s and that will continue long after Covid is gone. But while it is here the Herald wants to shine a light on this Hillsboro jewel to offer you all encouragement to mask up and head out to D’anu for a safe and intimate experience.
Wine, such a simple pleasure. Who knew it would mean so much to enjoy it on a Friday night. All that I took for granted before is precious now and aren’t we all going through that right now? Thank you, Joe, and we hope you are here in our town forevermore!
D’Anu Tasting Room & Wine Bar
173 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite #107
Hillsboro, Oregon 97124
(503) 746-4773
