Founders Jon and Lesli Owens Bring Eight Generations of Oregon Heritage to Their Vineyard Nestled in the Chehalem Mountains AVA
Newberg, Ore. — March 12, 2024 — Balsall Creek, a new addition to the vibrant winery scene in the Willamette Valley, proudly announces the grand opening of its state-of-the-art tasting room. Founded by Jon and Lesli Owens, whose family spans eight generations in Oregon, the winery is set to redefine the wine-tasting experience with a multifaceted approach, an expansive selection of exceptional estate-grown varietals, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
The tasting room on Calkins Lane in Newberg will open to the public on April 19, 2024. Here is what visitors to the new tasting room can expect:
Multifaceted Experience
This is not just another tasting room; it is a thoughtfully crafted, adaptable space designed for an immersive and diverse experience. Boasting a full commercial kitchen, the tasting room will offer a wide range of dining opportunities, from dinners hosted by the owners, to fully catered private events and special chef features from some of the area’s top chefs, making it the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a complete culinary experience. With multiple indoor and outdoor areas, including the main tasting area, a versatile luxe lounge, and a dedicated dining area with an open kitchen, patrons can plan and cater their visit for an immersive experience of Balsall Creek, a relaxed tasting of unique wines, a private meeting, or an exclusive dining event. The 2500 square feet of hardscaped outdoor space, complete with an outdoor fireplace, provides a picturesque setting for a relaxing time with family and friends, any season of the year.
A Wide Breadth of Unique, Elegant Offerings
True to its commitment to a diverse customer experience, Balsall Creek sets itself apart with an impressive selection of premium estate-grown wines. From the renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to the distinctive Gamay Noir, Aligote, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose of Gamay Noir, Pinot Meunier, and the future addition of true Champagne-style sparkling – featuring Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier – Balsall Creek boasts one of the broadest sets of estate-grown offerings in the Willamette Valley. Balsall Creek’s wines encompass a diverse spectrum of delightful tastes, catering to both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to the world of wine. From the outset of the tasting room opening, Balsall Creek will offer three flights: red, white, and mixed, which will each include a minimum of three separate varietals.
Environmental Care
As stewards of the land, Balsall Creek takes environmental responsibility seriously. The vineyard is both LIVE Certified and Salmon Safe Certified, highlighting a commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices. The vineyard is proud to be dry-farmed, hand-harvested, and powered by solar, with the intention to generate more energy than consumed.
Family, Oregon, History
Founded by Jon and Lesli Owens, whose family history in Oregon dates back to 1850, Balsall Creek is a testament to the legacy of Oregonian heritage. The Owens family, with its multi-generational involvement, including son James Owens, daughter Emily Yensen, and son-in-law Zac Yensen, actively contributes to the success of the business.
“The opening of our tasting room is a pivotal moment in Balsall Creek’s history,” said Jon Owens. “Our family welcomes you to come visit, experience the amazing space we have worked so hard to build, and try our wide array of extraordinary wines.”
Balsall Creek is now accepting reservations for the tasting room, and is also currently accepting club memberships and selling wine directly on their website. To learn more about Balsall Creek and its full lineup of wines, as well as more information on the tasting room opening, please visit balsallcreek.com.
About Balsall Creek
Balsall Creek Founders Jon and Lesli Owens have deep roots in Oregon, spanning several generations in the state. In 1850, Jon’s great, great, great grandparents moved west on the Oregon Trail, settling in what was then the Oregon Territory, just north of the Chehalem Mountains, mere miles from where the vineyard is today. Both Jon and Lesli’s families have a strong history of farming in the Willamette Valley, it is no wonder their vineyard thrives here. The vineyard is located just north of the Dundee Hills in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Balsall Creek is situated on 35 acres of bucolic farmland within the Chehalem Mountain AVA. Balsall Creek focuses primarily on producing exceptional quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines but also cultivates an array of unique grape varietals which include Gamay Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Aligote and Pinot Meunier. With special attention to sustainability and preserving the environment, Balsall Creek is committed to using organic farming practices: being both Live Certified and Salmon Safe Certified, dry-farmed and hand-harvested, and currently producing solar energy with a goal to produce more than we consume. Find more info at BalsallCreek.com.
