Adventure brief
Guided Wine Tasting on Horseback
Ride Tennessee Walking Horses through Oregon’s renowned Red Hills of Dundee, stopping to taste award-winning wines. This four-hour tour from Equestrian Wine Tours delivers stunning views and a uniquely immersive wine country adventure.
Situated in the heart of Oregon’s acclaimed Red Hills of Dundee, Equestrian Wine Tours offers a distinct blend of outdoor adventure and viticulture unlike any other. This four-hour journey pairs the rhythmic stride of Tennessee Walking Horses with stops at several award-winning wineries, transporting riders through sprawling vineyards with views that extend across rolling hills and volcanic soils known for producing some of the region’s finest wines. Red Hills of Dundee, part of the larger Willamette Valley AVA, is characterized by ancient basalt rock formations and nutrient-rich red clay soils that nurture pinot noir, chardonnay, and other varietals to exceptional quality.
The landscape here not only represents a premier wine-growing area but also a vibrant natural setting where the quiet of pasture meets the sophistication of wine country. Guided by knowledgeable staff at Equestrian Wine Tours, guests enjoy a comfortable ride aboard well-trained Tennessee Walking Horses, prized for their smooth gait, which allows riders to focus on the sweeping surroundings and the layered flavors of Oregon’s celebrated vintages. Each tour includes visits to a curated selection of wineries such as Vista Hills, Winter’s Hill, and Wine Country Farm, where guests dismount to savor expertly selected tastings against a backdrop of cascading vineyards and distant peaks.
This experience delivers both relaxation and engagement — it’s not just a ride, but an immersion into the terroir of Oregon wine through an unforgettable mode of transit. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or an outdoor lover, the unique combination of horseback riding and wine tasting elevates a classic vineyard tour into a memorable adventure. Located in Carlton, Oregon, Equestrian Wine Tours stands out within the Willamette Valley’s rich catalog of wine excursions by adding equestrian elegance and intimacy with the land.
It’s a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic connection to Oregon’s wine country landscape, blending physical activity, sensory delight, and scenic beauty into every moment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear closed-toe shoesessential
Sturdy footwear provides comfort and safety while riding and walking between wineries.
- 02Hydrate throughout the tourinfo
Bring a water bottle to stay refreshed, especially during warmer months when the sun can be strong.
- 03Inform staff of any horseback riding experienceimportant
Guides adjust the pace and horse selection to suit riders’ skill levels for a comfortable experience.
- 04Plan transportation after tastingessential
Have a designated driver or arrange rideshare, as participants sample wines at multiple stops.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Helmet
Protects your head in case of unexpected movements during the ride.
EssentialSunscreen
Shields your skin from sun exposure while riding through open vineyards.
spring|summer|fallEssentialLayered Clothing
Adjust your temperature easily as weather changes throughout the tour.
allEssentialReusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated improves comfort and enjoyment during the ride and tastings.
allEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Vista Hills’ hilltop tasting room with panoramic valley views, Secluded vineyard paths quiet enough to feel off the beaten track
Local fauna
Red-tailed hawks circling above the vineyards, Deer grazing near the forest edges bordering the hills
Historic heritage
The Red Hills AVA was established in 2005, noted for its volcanic soils that influence the character of local wines and shaped the region’s agricultural development.
Mindful exploration
Wineries in the area increasingly adopt sustainable practices, including water conservation and habitat protection, ensuring the landscape remains vibrant for future visitors.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Hilltop winery terraces, vineyard rows looking down the valley, alongside the horse trail paths
- Subjects
- Rolling vineyard landscapes, horses in motion, wine glasses with scenic backdrops
- Best times
- Golden hour, late morning, early afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior horseback riding experience?
No prior experience is necessary; the Tennessee Walking Horses used are gentle and guides tailor the pace to all skill levels.
Can I bring guests who don’t ride?
Guests not riding can join for wine tastings at the wineries but should check availability and policies with Equestrian Wine Tours.
Are wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at multiple wineries are part of the package and included in the tour price.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours proceed rain or shine with appropriate rain gear recommended; in severe weather conditions, rescheduling may be offered.
Is transportation provided between wineries?
The tour is conducted entirely on horseback, riding directly through the vineyards to each tasting location.
Can I purchase bottles during the tour?
Yes, wineries visited typically offer bottles for sale if you want to take home your favorite wines.