HILLSBORO, OR. (February 21, 2025) – Benza Vineyards and head winemaker Paden West proudly announce the highly anticipated release of the 2022 Touch of Gold Chardonnay, his first Chardonnay at Benza. To celebrate this milestone, the winery will host an exclusive Inspirational Chardonnay Experience on March 7, 2025, inviting Chardonnay enthusiasts to an unforgettable evening of discovery and tasting.
Paden’s inaugural Chardonnay, the 2022 Touch of Gold Chardonnay, reflects his deep appreciation and study of the varietal. To showcase the inspirations behind his winemaking, the Inspirational Chardonnay Experience will offer attendees a rare opportunity to taste a curated selection of Chardonnays from around the world, as well as distinguished local expressions. Guests will also have the opportunity to engage with Paden West and learn about his unique approach to winemaking, influenced by his background in music composition from the Berklee College of Music.
“This Chardonnay reflects years of tasting, exploring, and drawing inspiration from wines around the world,” said Paden West. “It’s an Old World-style Chardonnay with a distinctly Oregonian twist, rooted in a sense of place. We’re passionate about making wines that stand out in a blind tasting. This wine is the culmination of that belief—crafted with intention but meant to be enjoyed freely.”
The evening will feature thoughtfully crafted pairings by Assistant Winemaker and Resident Chef Ivan of Culinary Institute of America, who has designed dishes to complement each featured wine.
Inspirational Chardonnay Experience Details
Date: March 7, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Benza Vineyards, Hillsboro, OR
Tickets: $125 for non-members | $100 for wine club members
Evening Pairings
Chicken Al Pastor Skewers – Chicken Thigh, Chili Blend, Pineapple, Jalapeño
Lobster Rolls – Creamy Lobster Salad, Bibb Lettuce, Buttered Hoagie
Béarnaise and Frites – White Wine, Tarragon, Yukon Gold Potatoes
Miriam’s Empanadas – Gruyere, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Ham
Guests will conclude the evening by tasting West’s 2022 Touch of Gold Chardonnay, gaining firsthand insight into how his inspirations shaped its creation. Attendees are encouraged to engage in discussion with West about his innovative approach to winemaking and how his background in music composition influences his craft.
Tickets for the Inspirational Chardonnay Experience are limited, and reservations are highly recommended. Tickets available here.
Paden West joined Benza Vineyards in 2022, bringing a fresh perspective and dynamic energy to the winery. During his tenure, he has spearheaded the establishment of Benza’s traditional-method sparkling wine program and launched its acclaimed Rocks District Syrah program. In addition to his work with Pinot Noir, Reserve Gris, and Chardonnay, Paden approaches winemaking as an art form, drawing parallels between music composition and crafting fine wine. A former student of Berklee College of Music, he infuses a musical touch into his craft. In 2023, Paden was named one of VinePair’s 15 Winemakers to Watch and is regarded as a leader among the new generation of Willamette Valley winemakers.
# # #
About Benza Vineyards:
Founded by Ron Benza and Trish Damkroger, Benza Vineyards offers a serene retreat for wine lovers to enjoy exquisite wines crafted by winemaker Paden West. Situated just 25 minutes from Portland, the vineyard’s scenic farm setting, complete with wraparound porches, friendly animals, and personalized hospitality, invites guests to savor wines from its sustainably farmed Laurelwood soil. Benza’s offerings include sparkling wines made in the traditional method, as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Syrah, and Rosé. With a commitment to sustainability, Benza Vineyards is certified Salmon-Safe and the vineyard is certified organic. Tasting reservations can be made online at Benza.com. For more information, visit Benza.com or follow Benza Vineyards on Instagram @benzavineyards. Benza Vineyards is located at 16740 SW Pinot Place Hillsboro, OR 97123; phone: 503-452-8577; email: info@benza.com
