This Winery Is Permanently Closed.
Winery Rating
Located at:
100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland, OR 97520
Reservation Required
Price Range For Tasting
Situated in Ashland, Oregon, Belle Fiore offers a distinct connection to Old World aesthetics through its Italianate architecture and diverse planting of grape varieties. The winery features expansive vineyard views, a range of tasting experiences, and a portfolio that highlights both Rogue Valley staples and unexpected European cultivars.
The origins of this Ashland estate date back to 2007 when the Kerwin family established the site. Dr. Edward Kerwin, a distinct figure in the local community, founded the winery with a specific vision of combining classical European winemaking traditions with the agricultural potential of the Rogue Valley. The goal was to cultivate grapes that mirror the climates of France, Italy, and Spain.
Construction of the facilities and the planting of the vineyards occurred over several years, leading to the official opening of the tasting room in 2013. The estate was designed to serve as both a production facility and a destination for visitors, utilizing architecture that references Italian chateaus and villas. Over the years, the focus has remained on estate-grown fruit and sustainable farming practices that prioritize the long-term health of the soil and vines.
The winemaking operations are led by Rob Folin. Folin brings a practical and focused approach to the cellar, emphasizing the specific characteristics of the vineyard site rather than heavy-handed manipulation. His background includes extensive work within the Rogue Valley, allowing him to navigate the region’s variable climate and diverse soil types effectively.
Under his direction, the portfolio has maintained a balance between approachable, fruit-forward bottlings and structured, age-worthy reserves. The winemaking process involves careful monitoring of fermentation temperatures and oak integration, ensuring that the resulting wines display the varietal correctness of the grapes. The aim is to produce wines that are concentrated and detailed, with resolved tannins and moderate acidity that complement the region’s warmer growing season.
Located at 100 Belle Fiore Lane, the property spans roughly 55 acres of planted vineyards. The estate is visually defined by the massive Belle Fiore Chateau and the accompanying Wine Pavilion, both of which exhibit Italianate design elements such as stone facades, terracotta roofing, and expansive courtyards. The interior spaces feature high ceilings and classical detailing, providing a formal backdrop for wine evaluation.
The vineyards are planted to a wide array of varietals. While Pinot Noir and Syrah are present, the site is notable for its dedication to less common grapes for the region, including Teroldego, Montepulciano, and Barbera, alongside classic Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Visitors to the estate can view Pilot Rock and Mount Ashland from the terrace, offering a clear sense of the geographic context. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, catering to different weather conditions and group sizes.
The wine club at Belle Fiore offers members access to new releases, library vintages, and small-lot bottlings that are not always available to the general public. It is primarily built around tiered bottle allocations and straightforward benefits: 4, 6, and 12 bottle options with increasing case discounts (20% to 30%), plus flat-rate shipping terms that vary by tier and destination
Members receive complimentary tastings or flights when visiting the estate, along with percentage discounts on wine purchases and merchandise. The club also serves as a gateway to exclusive events held at the Chateau, which often include release parties and winemaker dinners. The structure of the club is designed to reward consistent patronage with greater access to the winery’s limited production wines.
Guests visiting the estate can choose from several tasting formats. The standard flights usually range in price from $17 to $29, depending on whether one selects the classic flight or the reserve tier. These tastings allow visitors to sample a cross-section of the current releases, comparing different varietals or examining the evolution of a single varietal across different vintages.
Reservations are not required for general seating in the Pavilion or on the terrace, making it accessible for spontaneous visits. However, reservations are necessary for private tastings or larger groups to ensure adequate staffing and space. The winery also offers a food menu featuring pairings that complement the wines, such as charcuterie boards and flatbreads.
Belle Fiore Winery stands as a significant producer in the Southern Oregon wine landscape, distinguished by its ambitious architecture and diverse viticultural program. With Rob Folin managing the cellar, the wines continue to show precision and regional character. The estate provides a comprehensive hospitality experience, combining scenic views with an educational approach to tasting. For those interested in the intersection of Rogue Valley terroir and European grape varieties, this destination offers a clear and well-executed perspective.
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