The idea of Fermenting Change in Oregon began in 2015 following Susan Sokol Blosser’s participation in a conference filled with 500 men and women in the wine industry from around the country. Susan sat on a panel bringing insight to Oregon wine through the lens of family business and generational planning. Following Susan’s time there was a serious moment of reflection, we sat over breakfast and thought, this fills a gap in the Oregon industry. There are many collaborative events in Oregon but none that specifically focus on women. 

Oregon has long been known for forging new paths; from planting varieties on a new frontier to putting wine in a can. With that is a beautiful history of women; their stories thread through the Oregon story seamlessly. As we move forward in Oregon, we see more and more women at the table. Through Women in Wine, we hope to bring those voices forward in a more balanced way. To create a platform of inclusion for all. Diversity is the key to the future of all business and the Oregon wine industry is no different. Women in Wine seeks to be a part of the change. As Oregon has shown for decades, a rising tide lifts all boats. Women in Wine seeks to support the next chapter of the Oregon story. We see an opportunity for personal and professional development for all people in the wine industry, vineyard to front-line sales.

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Women in Wine: Oregon is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) trade association. 

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PAST EVENTS

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Founded in 2019, Women in Wine: Fermenting Change was Oregon’s first event dedicated to empowering and advancing women in the wine industry.

The 2019 event sold out with 200 guests at Willamette Valley Vineyards for an event featuring esteemed speakers including Cheryl Strayed.  The conference returned in-person in 2022 to Willamette Valley Vineyards, where speakers like the McBride sisters, Maryam Ahmed and Marli Williams presented to another sold out crowd.  In 2023 the conference moved to Stoller Family Estate welcoming back Marli Williams as emcee alongside Maria Ponzi, Tonya Pitts and more to yet another sold out crowd. The 2024 conference was our biggest yet, drawing nearly 300 attendees and record sponsorship support. Speakers included Julia Coney, Sensi Graves, the Portland Timbers C-Suite and Alicia Towns Franken.

The 2020 and 2021 conferences were held virtually, attracting a wide new audience with powerhouse speakers offering a little something for everyone. 

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OUR MISSION

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Women in Wine Oregon provides a platform of inclusion for the advancement of female leadership in the wine and beverage industry. We provide opportunities for personal and professional development through an annual conference, community engagement events, and a mentorship program. As a membership-based nonprofit, we serve as a catalyst for “fermenting change” through empowerment, engagement, diversity, and accountability.

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OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

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Women in Wine: Oregon was founded on a platform of inclusion with the intention of fermenting positive change through empowerment, engagement, diversity, and accountability. Through both our words and actions, we are dedicated to recognizing the rich diversity of voices in our community, with a focus on opening doors for the many individuals who have been historically underrepresented or excluded. By embracing differences, actively seeking diverse perspectives, and advocating for the values of equity and inclusion, we strive to create a more vibrant and diverse Oregon wine community that champions equality, while treating all individuals with dignity and respect.