CJ and Elise McCollum Launch Estate Vineyard in Willamette Valley

The couple first broke ground on the property in 2021, planting 56 acres of vines on land previously used for timber and livestock. With these vines now reaching production maturity, the McCollums are moving to an estate-driven model that emphasizes site-specific terroir. Winemaker Gina Hennen, who partnered with the family on their initial Heritage 91 venture, will oversee the transition to estate fruit, focusing on a debut portfolio of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rosé.

Sustainability remains a central pillar of the operation. The vineyard holds LIVE certification and is recognized as Salmon-Safe, with CJ McCollum serving on the board of directors for the Low Input Viticulture and Enology (LIVE) organization. Beyond the wine production, the owners intend to develop the 318-acre site into a sustainable ecosystem for local wildlife and plan to open an estate tasting room in Carlton. The brand will make its public introduction at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen this June.