Helioterra, an All-Women Winery Incubator, Is Preparing to Open a Bar and Lounge in the Former Alter Ego Space

Guests can order flights, full-glass pours and bottles once the operation opens Sept. 24.

Helioterra Wines Photo courtesy of Helioterra Wines.
By Andi Prewitt

A scant three weeks after Alter Ego Cider announced it would be closing its Southeast Portland taphouse, we’re now getting a clearer picture of how that space is slated to transform.

Helioterra Wines, operated by Alter Ego co-owner Anne Hubatch, will officially open its wine bar and tasting room at 2025 SE 7th Ave. on Friday, Sept. 24.

Helioterra Wines The loft at Helioterra. Photo courtesy of Helioterra Wines.

It’s one of the few operations in Portland that will offer woman-made wines, all of which are produced in house. Current residents include Christina Gonzales of Gonzales Wine Co. and Elizabeth Esqueda and Meg Rulli, who are both launching their own labels for the first time. Those products should begin rolling out in 2022.

Customers can expect several tasting options, including flights, full-glass pours and bottle service, along with the option to add small-plate pairings. The bottle list will expand as the brands making wine there ramp up production.

In addition to the wine bar and lounge, Helioterra will make full use of the patio space previously inhabited by Alter Ego. And as the pandemic continues, all guests must show proof of vaccination for on-site consumption.

Related: Alter Ego Cider Will Close Its Southeast Portland Taphouse

Helioterra Wines Helioterra will make good use of the former Alter Ego Cider patio. Photo courtesy of Helioterra Wines.

Willamette Week’s reporting has concrete impacts that change laws, force action from civic leaders, and drive compromised politicians from public office. Support WW's journalism today.