Domaine Margelle Vineyards

A French-inspired estate located in the Cascade foothills of Oregon near Scotts Mill (northeast of Salem). Pronounced "Mahr-ZHEL," Domaine Margelle is owned by Steve and Marci Taylor, high school sweethearts.

Marci owned a travel business for years specializing in tours to France so the couple spent considerable time in France and almost bought land there. They came across 131 acres in the Cascade foothills and 46 acres were already planted to Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Four acres of Chardonnay were added in 2006. Alonzo Martinez in the vineyard manager.

Most of the grapes are sold to A to Z Wineworks. In 2011, the Chardonnay was just coming into full production. Mark Vlossak of St. Innocent crafts their 200 cases of Pinot Noir and Sean Driggers of Pudding River vinifies 100 cases of Pinot Gris.

The beautiful property is the setting for several weddings each year. A French provincial style country farmhouse, "La Bastide," is situated across the road from the main chateau and is available for rent. Private wine dinners are staged occasionally, catered by chef Jeff Nizlek of the Silver Grille in Silverton.

A selection of Domaine Margelle wines are poured in Silverton at the Pudding River Tasting Room, located in the Wolf Building. Domaine Margelle Vineyards is open to the public Memorial Day and Thanksgiving weekends and by appointment (503-873-0692).