The Windhorse is a Tibetan myth: a winged horse carrying strength, speed, and life force on the wind. Windhorse Vineyard rises from volcanic soils on steep canyon land, carved into a sacred oak woodland. Shaped by fierce winds and shadowed by Cascade volcanoes, it’s a place of raw energy and quiet power
wild, alive, and unmistakably its own.
Windhorse Vineyard at 1200’ is planted in soils eked out of ancient volcanic mudflows on steep canyon lands nestled within 130 acres of pristine oak-pine woodland in the Columbia Gorge AVA. Windhorse has recently expanded its vineyard to 34 planted acres and is producing Grenache, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Nero d’Avola, Primitivo, Syrah, and Chenin Blanc. Windhorse maintains a LIVE and Salmon Safe certification that signifies our commitment to environmentally and socially responsible winegrowing.
Windhorse is one of the very few producers of the Italian grape variety Nero d’Avola on the West coast. The combination of calcium-rich soils, volcanic parent material, and a semi-arid climate creates an environment uniquely suited to this historic varietal, allowing us to craft a wine that is varietally true, structured, and expressive of place. Planted in honor of Alan Busacca’s Sicilian heritage, our Windhorse Nero d’Avola is both a nod to legacy and a continued evolution of our winemaking philosophy.
Available Seasonally from April Through September
We’re delighted to welcome you to Windhorse Vineyard, just outside The Dalles, Oregon, for a curated wine tasting and picnic experience. Overlooking the Mill Creek Valley, the vineyard offers sweeping views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, an unforgettable backdrop with plenty of photo opportunities. Designed for parties of four to ten, this intimate experience invites guests to explore the vineyard, its wines, and the unique landscape of the Columbia Gorge.
Guests will enjoy a guided conversation on the history of the Columbia Gorge AVA with Dr. Alan Busacca, soil scientist, Ph.D., and partner at Windhorse Vineyard and Capital Call Vintners. Alan will share insights into the vineyard’s terroir, farming practices, and the region’s geology, alongside a wine flight featuring selections from Windhorse Vineyard and our second estate site, Wheatfield Vines Vineyard in Walla Walla.
We recommend allowing up to three hours for this experience. Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged, along with a layer for wind or sun, and an adventurous spirit. We look forward to sharing this remarkable setting with you.
5698 Mill Creek Road, The Dalles, OR 97058