The Bells are Ringing in Newberg

Posted on   March 28,2023   By Linda Compisi

Bells Up is a boutique winery in Newberg, Oregon in the Willamette Valley. They produce about 600 cases a year and plan to stay at that case amount. As many small wineries do, the Specter’s, owners of Bells Up, have an interesting story behind the history of their winery. Briefly, they are an Ohio couple who began as home winemakers. Dave found winemaking was more of a passion than his chosen careers (Sara still works as a freelance marketing consultant). Dave Specter, is artistic by nature as he was a French horn player (hence the orchestral term ‘Bells Up” name for the winery), who opted not to pursue a professional career with an orchestra and became a lawyer instead. After a friend suffered a devastating diagnosis, they realized it was time to pursue their love. They sold everything and bought 10 acres of an old Christmas tree farm outside Newberg in 2012.

They have been painstakingly hand planting their vines and now have 8.5 acres planted of various varietals. They have a penchant for unique varietals and they are not afraid of experimenting. We are happy that they are willing to try something new (old).

Recently, I was fortunate to participate in a Zoom call with them. I was presented with 2 wines in advance:  2021 Estate ‘Helios’ Seyval Blanc (Chehalem Mountains AVA) and 2021 “Jupiter” Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains AVA). I have to say, I was really drawn to the Seyval Blanc. It is a hybrid grape originally from France that loves to grow in cool areas and is early ripening. This is perfect for the Willamette weather and by the way also Ohio (coincidence?). This chilled wine was vivacious and luscious with aromas of green apple, some minerality and petrol reminiscent of Riesling. The flavor matches the aroma almost exactly but with an added bit of yeast. It was mouth wateringly acidic and the finish went on forever.  I found that after some time in the glass, the aromas and flavors became muted and mild. Also, delicious.

Bells Up Winery only sells their wine direct to consumer and you do need an appointment to visit. Every tasting is personalized and hosted by one of the Specters (almost always Dave) making the tasting very customized and exclusive. Their story is worth hearing and a visit worthwhile to learn more about Bells Up and their various varietals.

Bells Up Winery is open daily, by reservation only at: 27895 NE Bell Rd, Newberg, OR 97132 Call (503) 537-1328 or visit their website to make an appointment and learn specifics about their tasting program.