Women in Wine 2024

We are proud to have a women-led winemaking team here at Union Wine, as well as a large team of women working hard behind the scenes. This month we’d like to recognize the three women behind the barrels – bringing impressive and approachable wines to tables across the nation.

Earlier this week we joined our winemaking crew to learn a little more about their experience and paths into the wine industry.

Meredith McGough: Director of Winemaking:

Meredith McGough

Her Italian mother and free-spirited father ensured that Meredith appreciated wine and travel early and often, leading her to dive headlong into a Viticulture and Enology education at UC Davis before she was of legal drinking age. The combinations of tradition and innovation, physical and mental, art and science sustain her passion for the craft of winemaking. A native Pacific Northwesterner through and through, Meredith found a home at Union Wine Co. after several years making decidedly pinkies-up wines in the Napa Valley, a few formative vintages braving the Oregon elements with a couple of our friends in the Willamette Valley wine industry, and some time harvest-hopping and adventuring in France, Australia, and New Zealand. As Director of Winemaking, Meredith works with the rest of the team to put impressive, unpretentious wine in the can or bottle.

Meredith has recently added to her full schedule and full house (which also includes a rabbit, two cats, three chickens, and a husband) with a sweet, rambunctious Cane Corso named Juno who is turning out to be an excellent running buddy. The pup is well on her way to outweighing Meredith.

Joanna Engel: Associate Winemaker


An Ohio native with a background in Animal Science, Joanna earned a PhD focusing on Laying Hen Behavior and Welfare from the University of Melbourne in 2016. Realizing academia was not her future, she dropped everything with 2 weeks’ notice and drove cross-country to experience harvest in California. Following multiple harvests in New Zealand and Oregon, Joanna joined Union Wine Company as Enologist in 2020 drawn by the innovation and diversity of product produced.

When she’s not at the winery Joanna loves cooking, baking, and reading. She also has a rescue cat, Fitzwilliam Darcy, that she is slowly enticing out from under the bed!

Kolby Childers: Enologist II

Kolby grew up in Washington “wine country” with parents who worked in the industry for over 30 years, two of three brothers who spent their summers on bottling lines or in cellars and labs, and even her extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, worked in the industry at some point. So, naturally, when she needed a job the summer after she graduated college in Monmouth, Oregon, she joined a harvest crew and loved every minute of it. Next, she traveled to New Zealand and then California to work harvest and was working in Walla Walla, WA when she saw the job opening at Union. She’d spent her off hours with friends drinking Underwood Bubbles while in CA and loved the wine and the unpretentiousness of the brand and company. She also loved Oregon and always wanted to move back. The job was a perfect fit.

Outside of the lab, Kolby is an animal lover and spends as much time as possible with her two cats and dog. She enjoys all that Oregon has to offer, just as she knew she would: hiking, trail running, backpacking and when the sun finally comes out in summer you can find her thoroughly enjoying it while listening to podcasts and audiobooks.

We asked each of the women the same 4 questions:

1. What is your favorite thing about working in the wine industry?

2. What do you think has made you successful in the wine industry?

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women working in wine?

4. What are you drinking right now?/What’s your go-to wine?/What are you most excited about in wine right now?

MEREDITH:

1. What is your favorite thing about working in the wine industry?
How about two? Can I give you my two favorite things?
My first favorite thing about the wine industry is the community. When I have occasionally thought that I should be doing something more meaningful with my life, I remember that it is the people with whom I have connected through wine that make this work meaningful to me. The wine industry is comprised of down-to-earth people all over the world who manage to make the world feel very small in the nicest of ways. The Oregon wine industry in particular is collaborative and open to sharing learnings, be they from successes or failures, and this keeps us all engaged and ensures that our industry is stronger as a whole.
My second favorite thing is that working in wine is an excellent way to travel to some of the most stunning places on the planet. I do still sometimes miss my harvest-hopping days. If you’re going to have to be an adult and work, why not do it abroad, basically getting paid to work out, while working with a bunch of interesting people who share a love of food, wine, and adventure?

2. What do you think has made you successful in the wine industry?
First and foremost, I am very comfortable getting dirty. Whether it’s dust in my nose from walking a vineyard or driving a tractor, or grape solids coating my arm to the shoulder from clearing a clogged drain during harvest, I am really just not bothered by (and would even go so far as to say I embrace) these less than glamorous aspects of the job. I don’t take myself too seriously, which has allowed me to keep laughing even in difficult situations. And I welcome continued growth and learning, always striving to be humble, which feels like an absolute necessity in a job so reliant on nature. But perhaps even more so, I clean up and stand up with confidence in my experience and knowledge while admitting what I don’t know, and I have used humor to bridge gaps and call attention to the still-present sexism that can be found in our industry (hopefully) without making anyone feel attacked. I have also had several mentors who have provided constructive feedback and invaluable support along the way.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women working in wine?
Be an advocate for yourself AND for others. Though it is imperative, advocating for oneself is sometimes easier said than done. Finding someone who will have your back in a professional setting, and being willing to be that person for someone else is the biggest strength I have found in people who support diversity across this industry. Help ensure others’ voices are heard in meetings, speak up if someone’s contributions aren’t being recognized or their capabilities questioned, and you will find reciprocity. Never assume your question is dumb or that everyone else already knows the answer; if you have that question, chances are someone else does too. Or maybe no one else has asked because you’re ten steps ahead and they haven’t caught up with you yet! And most importantly, IT’S JUST WINE! We all start out in this field because we enjoy it, and remembering that is important, though sometimes difficult (because it is also a job, and jobs can be stressful).

4. What are you drinking right now?
I drink a lot of Vermouth & Soda or Amaro & Soda. I love the balanced bitterness and the aromatic complexity found in Vermouth & Amari, and some local and experimental producers have been fun to try. I’ve been enjoying the uptick in Oregon Gamay noir production and always order a glass of any OR Gamay on a menu. I always drink a lot of Italian red wine: I love structure and earthiness if it comes with plenty of acidity. I’m also a big fan of Sherry, which took a while to grow on me because of the negative connotations I had around my technical training to regard oxidation as a fault. But when intentional, oxidation can be delicious! And Champagne, of course! Not just for special occasions. Wow, that was more than I thought I’d come up with. I clearly like and drink a lot of wine and wine-based beverages…

JOANNA:

1. What is your favorite thing about working in the wine industry?
Everything! It’s hard work and exhausting, especially during harvest, but it’s allowed me to not only travel to new places, but to make friends all over the world. The wine industry is truly a community, especially in Oregon, where people collaborate and communicate openly and will help each other out in a heartbeat. I also can’t help but feel really proud when I see one of our wines on a shelf or a wine list, knowing that something I had a hand in is being enjoyed by others.

2. What do you think has made you successful in the wine industry?
I work hard, but I also work efficiently. Being able to think 3 steps ahead at all times can get you really far. I have a natural curiosity that often has me wondering ‘why?’ or ‘how?’. If there’s no one to ask directly about it, I will spend hours looking online and in books to figure out the answers. I’m also willing to do jobs other people might turn their noses up at. You will still see me dealing with compost, emptying drain baskets and troubleshooting wastewater around the winery.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women working in wine?
Don’t give up, work hard, and speak up. This is a really competitive industry job-wise, but the more you put yourself out there, the more opportunity you’ll have. It may be cliché, but women must work so much harder to get the same jobs/pay men do…there will always be someone who thinks they deserve it more, but it’s so important to be confident in your own abilities and know you deserve the good things that come your way.

4. What are you drinking right now?
Since August, I’m really loving Gin Martinis with Blue Cheese Olives. As far as wine goes anything and everything sparkling! There are so many great sparkling wines being produced in the Valley right now using all manner of methods (force carb, pet-nat, traditional) so there’s no shortage of great local wine in my glass (or can).

KOLBY:

1. What is your favorite thing about working in the wine industry?
The great balance between creativity and science, it’s truly one of a kind! I don’t consider myself a very artistic or creative person, I very much enjoy science and math and rules, but winemaking allows me to be creative while still enjoying the science. Also the amazing people you get to meet from around the world and the lifelong friends you make. I LOVE (and am so grateful) that I was able to travel the world and make friends and now that I’m in a full-time position, one of my goals is to make sure every intern gets that same “once-in-a-lifetime” experience that they will be talking about for years to come.

2. What do you think has made you successful in the wine industry?
My interest in continuing to learn, even after high school and college I still want to learn the how and why behind so many things in life. I’m able to continue to learn and make connections while also knowing what next steps will come and I think that has helped me move so quickly into the role I have now.
Also, my drive to prove people wrong! This is a male dominated industry and I’ve been told more than once that I won’t make it or I don’t “deserve” the position I have, whether it be because I am female or I’m much younger than others in my same role, but proving people wrong is great motivation to keep pushing myself and also prove to myself I deserve to be here just as much as anyone else.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women working in wine?
ALWAYS stick up for yourself and other women. You should never be afraid to speak your mind, thoughts, and opinions. Don’t be afraid to come off as “bossy” or “b*tchy”. A lot of jobs make it feel as if you must put down other women to work your way up but that is exactly the opposite, you should be working arm in arm.

4. What are you drinking right now?
With it currently being winter, anything warm! Mulled wine, hot tea, I always have coffee at my desk with me. As for wine, I will never be able to fully say goodbye to my Washington palate; I love a Malbec and Syrah. And, the Willamette Valley and Oregon make amazing sparkling wine, you can never go wrong with bubbles!

National Park Inspired Cocktails

We’re celebrating summer with 3 cocktails you can make with our Underwood limited-edition national park cans, in partnership with the National Park Foundation. Whether you just got back from exploring a national park, or are planning a trip, keep these cocktail recipes handy for a fun afternoon of reminiscing or planning. Like the can designs, each cocktail is inspired by the mountains, water ways, and deserts our cans are showcasing.

Underwood Pinot Gris Pinecone Punch

Pinecone Punch

(serves 3)

Ingredients

1 can of Underwood Pinot Gris
1/4 cup dry vermouth
1/3 cup gin
Juice from 1 and a half limes
2 oz pine and satsuma syrup
Extra lime slices for garnish

Directions

Add a few handfuls of ice to a pitcher, then add all the ingredients and stir. Add a few ice cubes to each glass and pour in the punch. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Underwood Rosé Bubbles Sparkling Desert Bird

Sparkling Desert Bird

Ingredients

1.5 oz mezcal
.50 oz aperol
.25oz agave syrup and .75 oz pineapple juice (or 1 oz pineapple gum)
Pinch of salt
Underwood Rosé Bubbles

Directions

Shake all the ingredients except the Rosé Bubbles in a cocktail shaker, strain over ice and top with 1-2 oz of Rosé Bubbles.

Underwood The Bubbles Lakeside Spritz

 

Lakeside Spritz

Ingredients

3 oz of Underwood The Bubbles
1 oz St Germain
Lime juice from 1/2 a lime
1 oz Soda water
Basil and mint

Directions

Add St Germain, lime juice and a few torn herb leaves to a glass. Stir together, add ice and top with The Bubbles and soda water.

How to Recreate Responsibly in the Outdoors

Underwood National Park Foundation Cans

Summer is just about here, and it is time to start planning sunny hiking and camping trips! However, before setting out on the trails, it is important to take a step back and focus on how you can minimize your impact on the land this year. For example, when you’re packing up your Underwood canned wine, don’t forget to pack it out!

Union Wine Company has partnered with the National Park Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, to launch limited-edition cans for their wins, commemorating the national parks.

The National Park Foundation supports programs and projects that help parks become more sustainable and energy efficient, such as installing water stations, increasing recycling efforts, and investing in renewable energy – and it is important visitors do their part too. It is commonly accepted in the outdoor community that you should always follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace on your adventures, and do what you can to keep our parks and nature areas protected.

Underwood National Park Foundation Rosé Bubbles

Below are the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace as well as a few other tips to be responsible outdoors.

Plan Ahead & Be Prepared 

Always do some research before your hiking and camping trips. Before visiting a national or state park, it is a good idea to check the park website for any rules or regulations for the area.  This is where you will find information about closures, permits, fees, and pet restrictions.

You should also always check recent trail conditions and weather for the day of your hike. Websites like AllTrails have trail reports from recent hikers to help set expectations for your trip. Being prepared will keep you safe and help you to minimize your impact on the land.

Underwood Recreate Responsibly

Stay on Durable Surfaces 

Always stay on the trail during your hike. Do not wander off the trail as this destroys the land and can impact wildlife’s environment. This is especially important in fragile alpine environments, like Mount Rainier, where plants can take years to recover.

Staying on the trail includes- walking through the mud if it covers the trail, not cutting up switchbacks, and finding wide or durable spots to take breaks. If you are camping, set up your tent on hard-packed dirt where it looks like previous campers have been.

During wildflower season, it can be tempting to wander off the trail for photos. Resist the temptation, and keep the meadows pristine for future visitors. Wildflowers are often still present beneath the surface of the dirt, and stepping off the trail can prevent them from blooming in the  future.

Dispose of Waste Properly 

Whatever you bring on your hike, be prepared to take out. This includes things like peels, apple cores, and dropped food. While food may seem okay to leave, something like a banana can take 2 years to fully degrade and is not native to the environment. Peels and any dropped

snacks can also be bad for local wildlife. Bring something like a small snack bag to pack out any trash.

If hiking with your pet, bring bags and pick up any dog poop. Take it with you on your hike until you can find a trash can to properly dispose of it.

Leave What You Find 

Leave behind anything natural you find on the trail. This includes rocks, sticks, and flowers. It may not seem like a big deal to take a small rock as a memento, but if every visitor did so, it would leave a large impact.

Never pick wildflowers! Leave them for others to enjoy. Some trails also have boot scrubbers at the trailhead to help prevent the transportation of invasive species to the area. If you see one of these, take the extra minute to use it.

Minimize campfire impacts 

If you plan on camping, always check for recent campfire restrictions. Many areas limit campfires during the summer when fire risk is high.

If allowed, use pre-established campfire rings or metal pans. Keep fires manageable, and make sure to completely extinguish them, so they are cold to the touch.

Respect Wildlife 

If you see any wildlife, admire it from a distance. The National Park Service website recommends staying 25-50 yards from most wildlife, and 100 yards from dangerous animals such as bears. Always check wildlife safety in the area you will be visiting.

Never approach or attempt to feed wildlife, even those that seem harmless. Animals can become aggressive if they associate humans with food, and most human food is bad for wildlife. If you are camping, store your food by properly hanging it or putting it in a bear canister or box.

Keep pets leashed where required, and respect rules that do not allow pets in certain areas.

Underwood Wine Voyages with Val

Be Considerate 

When hiking, keep in mind that downhill hikers should yield to uphill hikers, and all hikers yield to livestock and horses.

Be courteous to others and don’t play music from speakers or make excessive noise, so everyone can have a pleasant hike.

Other Ways to be Responsible 

Of course, being responsible goes beyond just following Leave No Trace. Here are a few more ways to help protect the environment when out adventuring.

When posting online about an area, include if there are specific Leave No Trace considerations.

Consider bringing a small bag to pick up trash left on the trail.

Bring an emergency GPS to aid first responders in finding you if something goes wrong.

Educate others about Leave No Trace if you see them behaving inappropriately, or inform a ranger.

Photography and Words by Voyages with Val

 

Pinot Noir & Radicchio Risotto

Undewood Pinot Noir Risotto

Most risotto recipes include a bit of white wine to deglaze the pan with, but we found a risotto made with red wine and we love it. This recipe comes from the cookbook Bitter Honey, Recipes and Stories from the Island of Sardinia. They use a local red wine, but we made the recipe with Underwood Pinot Noir. With a small amount of prep work, this dish comes together easily. A perfect dish to share on Valentine’s Day or to help get you through the last of the cold winter months.

Undrewood Pinot Noir Rissotto

INGREDIENTS:

5 cups chicken stock

2 cups (500mL) Underwood Pinot Noir

10 tablespoons butter

1⁄2 head of large radicchio or 1 small entire head, finely sliced

pinch of sea salt

1 tablespoon sapa or an aged balsamic

2 small white onions, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, sliced

2 cups risotto rice

3oz Parmesan, grated, plus extra to serve

Underwood Pinot Noir Risotto

PREPARATION:

In a deep saucepan over low heat, mix together your stock and wine.

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a separate saucepan. Reserve a handful of radicchio for decoration then fry the rest until it just wilts. Add a pinch of salt and the vinegar. Continue cooking for a minute or so and set aside.

Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a deep saucepan and fry the onions and garlic gently, until soft and translucent. Add the rice and stir for a minute or so. Add a ladle of your wine and stock mixture and stir until it has been absorbed into the rice. Repeat the process, ladle by ladle, stirring after each addition until the rice absorbs the liquid.

The whole cooking process should take around 17–20 minutes. Once your rice is al dente and the liquid has mostly evaporated, set it aside for the ‘mantecatura’, or ‘creaming’.

With a wooden spoon, beat the rest of the butter with the grated Parmesan. Beat well for a minute or two, until a luscious creamy sauce is formed.

Finally, fold in your cooked radicchio and serve, topped with the reserved raw radicchio for decoration and an extra grating of Parmesan.

Get to know our newest vineyard – Crowe Hill

Union Wine Co. Crowe Vineyard

In the spring of 2021, Union Wine Company purchased Crowe Hill Vineyard which is located just outside of Sheridan, Oregon in the Van Duzer Corridor AVA within the famed Willamette Valley. The property has 207 acres with 95 acres of Pinot Noir planted in 2008 and 2009. In 2022 we planted an additional 30 acres of Pinot Noir.  

Union Wine Co. Crowe Hill Vineyard 

Most of the soils on this property are hazelair, suveer silty, and clay loam. When we acquired the property, the soil had been chemically treated and needed some TLC. To fix this, we stopped using chemical herbicides, invested in mechanical weeding and began using an organic fungicide program during the growing season.  Additionally, we’ve been employing a special formulation of microbes that break down hydrocarbons and are intended to repair the soil from past chemical herbicide use. Our goal is to create more diversity of cover crop species, enhance the vineyard’s biodiversity, and improve overall soil and ecosystem health.  

Our first harvest of Crowe Hill Vineyard grapes was the 2021 vintage. We have used fruit from this vineyard in several of our wines including Kings Ridge Pinot Noir, Underwood Pinot Noir and Underwood Rosé Bubbles. Over the next few years, we plan to add an additional 60 acres of grapes, along with bat boxes, owl boxes, raptor perches, and more, so stay tuned for more exciting projects! 

Union WIne Co. Crowe Hill