McCollum Family Vineyard Opens Its Doors
CJ and Elise McCollum, the dedicated proprietors of McCollum Family Vineyard, are thrilled to announce the opening of their estate property to guests. Located in Carlton, Oregon, this serene 318-acre estate is now offering its very first hospitality experience to wine lovers.
This exciting venture takes place within the picturesque vineyard, which was previously a Christmas tree farm and a pasture for cattle and horses. Following their purchase of the estate in 2021, the McCollums have transformed it into a stunning vineyard, featuring 56 acres meticulously planted with the finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. This transformation reflects their commitment to sustainable farming practices and long-term land stewardship, characteristics that are vital to their winemaking philosophy.
The new tasting experience, which is available by appointment from Thursday to Sunday, provides an intimate introduction to McCollum Family Vineyard's exquisite wines. Guests are invited to indulge in a flight of four current-release wines for a nominal fee, or they may opt to enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, complemented by delightful charcuterie-style bites sourced from Good Company Cheese Shop. The outdoor tasting area is thoughtfully situated around a beautifully polished vintage Airstream, nestled among grand oak trees, creating a charming and welcoming atmosphere.
At the core of the McCollum family’s vision lies a desire to bring people together. Sharing a bottle of wine signifies an experience enriched with authenticity, warmth, and connection. CJ McCollum articulates this sentiment perfectly: "To finally invite people to sit among these vines, sip these wines, and look out over the land we've poured our hearts into is what this has all been leading toward."
CJ and Elise view wine as more than just a drink; they see it as a catalyst for social gatherings, where memories are made, and connections are enhanced. Elise elaborates, "We designed this experience to feel like an extension of our own home, a welcoming space where guests can unwind, connect, and celebrate life’s moments." She emphasizes the tranquility and serenity that the estate provides, elements that drew the couple to the Willamette Valley in the first place.
This new on-site tasting experience is only the beginning of the McCollums' ambitious plans for their estate. As the vineyard matures, they are actively developing plans for a full-fledged tasting room and a multi-purpose destination. This future site will likely include beautifully landscaped green spaces, farm-to-table dining options featuring produce from the estate garden, and additional serene viewing spots enhanced by the property’s ancient oak trees.
Guests are encouraged to make appointments for visits to the Airstream from 11 AM to 4 PM from Thursday through Sunday, allowing for both private tastings and family-friendly outings—children are always welcome. As the McCollum Family Vineyard continues to flourish and evolve, more information on booking visits and exploring the estate can be found on their website:
www.mccollumfamilyvineyard.com.
By sharing their home and stories through these wine experiences, the McCollums are not only showcasing their vineyard but also fostering a community spirit that elevates each visit to their estate into a memorable occasion.
About McCollum Family Vineyard
McCollum Family Vineyard represents the continuation of CJ and Elise McCollum’s legacy-driven mission, building upon the foundation of McCollum Heritage 91. The vineyard is dedicated to producing high-quality, estate-driven wines that reflect the unique terroir of the renowned Yamhill-Carlton AVA. The estate showcases their commitment to exceptional land stewardship, thoughtful farming, and the creation of wines that resonate with both place and intention.