If you’re visiting Marathon headquarters and haven’t taken time to drive out to Sweet Cheeks winery, you need to go for a tasting now, or so says our assistant marketing manager. With a Riesling that’s won double gold and a 2013 Willamette Valley Pinot Gris that earned them the 2015 NY International Wine Festival Oregon Pinot Gris Winery of the Year, Sweet Cheeks is known their locally harvested wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris. They also feature some terrific wines made with grapes collected from neighboring areas including a fabulous Syrah and Merlot.
This boutique winery, located just south of Eugene on the fringe of Willamette Valley wine appellation, provides a decadent taste of Oregon. Upon arrival, orient yourself to local flavors by trying a complementary flight of three wines or choosing the reserve flight for $6. After settling on a favorite, find a seat inside to revel in the cool indoors and whimsical work of local artist Shanna Trumbly (our assistant marketing manager swears by her too, having many of her prints and even some of her canvases) or head outside to take in the gorgeous views of the vineyard and valley below from the patio.
If you’re feeling snackish, bring in a picnic basket or try one of their cheese plates. Although every day is a good day to visit Sweet Cheeks, weekends provide a little something special with Twilight Tastings on Friday evenings 6-9 p.m. (wine and cheese pairings, local musicians and area food cart) and Mimosa Sundays from 12-6 p.m. And, if you’re traveling with dogs, let them enjoy the day too. They’re welcome to sit on the patio with you as long as they’re on a leash.
Location
27007 Briggs Hill Rd
Eugene, OR 97405
Parking
If you’re driving your Marathon, park in the lower lot, just after the fork in the road.
Dog friendly
Absolutely. Just make sure he/she is on a leash.
For more information, visit their website here. 
