West Hills Vineyards Blends Family Legacy With a Fresh Vision in West Salem

By Justin Andress, West Side Newspaper

The rich soil of the Salem area has attracted several vineyards over the last century. They dot the rolling hills surrounding the city. Few, however, take full advantage of both the natural surroundings and the rich cultural history of the Salem area in quite the same way as West Hills Vineyards.

“Our family has been part of the Salem community for more than 50 years,” says West Hills Vineyards co-owner Abby Hoppe. “We’re proud to create a space where people can enjoy a meal, share a glass of wine, and celebrate anniversaries, weddings, and other special occasions … we hope to draw more visitors to West Salem and contribute to the growth and vitality of the surrounding community.”

The story of West Hills Vineyard extends more than 50 years in the past, when the land was purchased by Abby and Lisa Hoppe’s grandparents, Jim and Myrna. “For many years, [they] would drive past the property off Highway 22 where West Hills now stands.” The couple was drawn not just to the natural beauty of the property, but to its history.

The land on which West Hills Vineyard stands is awash in local history. A historic home on the property used to belong to the 18th governor of Oregon. There was also an aging flower shop on the property. Rather than clean the slate and start from scratch, Jim and Myrna chose to restore and preserve the buildings. “They saw the property’s potential,” says Hoppe. “With a clear vision and a lot of hard work, they brought it back to life — creating what is now West Hills Vineyards.”

“We preserved as many original features as possible, honoring the property’s history while giving it new life,” says Hoppe. “Today, the space can host small gatherings and includes two bridal suites, offering a beautiful setting for wedding parties to prepare for their big day.”

As they enter their third year in business, West Hills Vineyards remains committed to nurturing their family’s legacy while providing something fresh and new to the members of their community. That mission begins by keeping things close to home.

As Hoppe explains, “When we say West Hills is a family-owned and operated business, we truly mean it in every sense. At any given time on the property, you’ll find multiple family members from three generations, each working on a different project. Not many people get to go to work and spend their days alongside their grandparents, parents, cousins, or siblings.”

Indeed, family is at the core of West Hills Vineyards. When the vineyard opened, Hoppe says, “Our entire staff was made up of family: my grandparents, my aunt and uncle, my mom and dad, my siblings, and my cousins — along with Chef Derek. Together, we introduced the community to West Hills and quickly saw the potential this new gathering place had to bring people together.”

Just three years in, West Hills Vineyards has made a habit of bringing people together. They’re one of the area’s most sought-after wedding venues because they’re willing to add a personal touch that’s missing from so many others.

“We like to say we take ‘the wedding bells are ringing’ seriously,” Hoppe explains. “At the top of our chapel hangs a historic bell dating back to 1888. After saying ‘I do,’ couples are invited to ring it to mark the moment. Even from outside the chapel, guests can see it illuminated.”

Of course, no vineyard can draw a crowd without a winning bottle of wine. West Hills Vineyards scores there, too, by sticking to its philosophy of homegrown taste. “We partner with winemaker Drew Voit in McMinnville, Oregon, to craft our signature wines,” says Hoppe, adding:

“Our winemaking philosophy centers on staying true to the roots of Oregon agriculture while crafting the classic wines people know and love, with a fresh take on familiar favorites. One standout is the 2024 Sparkling Muscat. While many guests expect it to be very sweet, we’ve crafted it in an off-dry style, resulting in a more balanced, refreshing, and enjoyable wine.”

As the weather warms up and the Oregon sun begins to shine in earnest, there are countless reasons to visit West Hills Vineyards. Schedule a special event, attend a tasting, catch some live music, have a romantic dinner, or simply watch the sun set on their patio while you savor a delicious glass of wine.