How we do what we do
and why we do it
Our Approach to Winemaking
Caelestis Cellars is a small urban winery tucked away in Southwest Portland. Proud to be a micro-winery, we are passionate about the possibilities of making small batches of wine in intimate surroundings. Being an urban winery, rather than one connected to a vineyard estate, allows us to discover and share small lots of premiere grapes, grown sustainably, whose unique characteristics would get lost if the grower sold them to a larger winery. Our small size also allows us to welcome unexpected opportunities to secure unique and exciting grapes for our members.
Exploration of northwest grapes
From the beginning, we have established relationships with grape growers in Eastern Washington, but our location in northern Oregon lets us source fruit from growing regions throughout the Pacific Northwest. Each region yields grapes and resulting wines that are unique to their microclimate and soil composition. When we select grapes for wines to share with our members, we look for sustainable growing practices, healthy vines, and interesting varieties. Every year, we will bring you new grapes from new regions. Our small size allows us to be flexible and nimble when exciting and unique grapes come available. From the first sip, you will know that you are drinking something special.
Our big reds feature grapes from regions such as Washington’s Columbia Valley or Red Mountain. Our delicate Pinot Noirs feature grapes from Oregon’s Chehalem Mountains AVA in the Willamette Valley. Our varying whites feature grapes from either Washington or Oregon depending on the style and availability of high-quality fruit. Over time, expect varietals from Walla Walla, Hood River, Horse Heaven Hills, The Gorge, Naches Heights, Columbia Valley, Rogue River, Applegate Valley, and more. We are thrilled to showcase the entire Pacific Northwest as a collection of America’s greatest wine-growing regions. We can’t wait to explore each wine with you!
Every day is a drink-the-good-wine day
There are few wine-tasting experiences as warm and inviting as the ones urban wineries like ours offer. We are a working winery, not a tourist destination, where the winemaker pays attention to every aspect of the wine-making process while personally sharing the story of each wine with you.