Wine Business Monthly honors visionaries shaping the future of the wine industry
November 4, 2025 (Dayton, OR) — Stoller Wine Group President, Gary Mortensen, has once again been recognized by Wine Business Monthly as one of the Top Wine Industry Leaders of 2025, celebrating individuals whose innovation, integrity, and influence are shaping the future of wine. This year’s honorees represent a cross-section of trailblazers redefining what it means to lead in a rapidly evolving industry, from sustainability and technology to consumer engagement and community impact.
As one of the most forward-thinking executives in the United States, Gary is known for his bold creativity, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to Founder Bill Stoller’s 200-year vision of building a company designed to last for generations. Under Gary’s direction, Stoller Wine Group has expanded its portfolio, strengthened its sustainability commitments, and grown its market presence with notable milestones, including the openings of the Chehalem Estate Tasting Room and Stoller Wine Bar | Newberg, doubling the size of wine production with the acquisition of the Elouan brand, and continued investment in community partnerships.
Drawing from a diverse background in wine, technology, and filmmaking, Gary has reshaped how the company connects with audiences by placing storytelling and accessibility at the center of its marketing philosophy. His leadership has established a creative culture where brand and narrative work hand in hand, elevating the guest experience while showcasing the people and artistry behind every bottle. By shifting the conversation through relentless curiosity, he continues to make wine feel both world-class and approachable.
Today, the Stoller Wine Group has been recognized as one of Portland Business Journal’s Most Admired Companies for ten consecutive years and a multi-year USA Today 10Best Tasting Room honoree. The company continues to outperform national trends, achieving a 47-percent increase in depletions and a 31-percent increase in shipments amid broader industry challenges.
“This honor reflects the strength and heart of our entire team,” said Gary Mortensen, Stoller Wine Group president. “The wine industry continues to face complex challenges, and while we’ve felt Bill Stoller’s absence deeply, his vision reminds us to stay steady, innovate thoughtfully, and lead with purpose.”
In addition to this recognition, Mortensen was recently nominated for Wine Enthusiast’s 2025 Wine Executive of the Year, further underscoring his leadership and impact on the Oregon wine industry. Together, these honors reflect a career defined by vision, collaboration, and a relentless belief in the power of people to drive meaningful change.
About Stoller Wine Group
The Stoller Wine Group has earned a reputation as one of Oregon’s most dynamic family of wineries by thinking and acting differently than our peers. Our success begins with Founder and Proprietor, Bill Stoller, a native of Dayton, Oregon, whose vision is to build a company that will last for 200 years.
Founded in 1993, our collection of family-owned brands includes Stoller Family Estate, Chehalem Winery, Chemistry, Stoller Swing, History, Elouan, and Canned Oregon. We take pride in our B Corp, LIVE, and Salmon-Safe certifications, knowing that we back our values with actions when it comes to our commitment to our land, wines, and community. With every step forward, we are building a lasting impact on the wine industry and the world. Home to the world’s first LEED Gold certified winery, our principles have led us to be perennially honored as one of Oregon’s most admired companies by the Portland Business Journal, 10Best Tasting Rooms by the USA Today Readers’ Choice, and Top Workplaces recipient by The Oregonian.
For more information and our dedication to crafting world-class wines sustainably, please visit our website at stollerwinegroup.com.
