Kate Ayres

Kate Ayres’ journey through the world of winemaking is as rich and nuanced as the wines she crafts. Born and raised on the rugged north coast of Oregon, Kate’s childhood was intertwined with the natural bounty of her surroundings. She spent her early years fishing, crabbing, and foraging for mushrooms, instilling in her a profound appreciation for the land and its gifts.

This deep-rooted connection to nature seamlessly translated into a passion for the sciences and a love for animals. Seeking to blend these interests, Kate ventured to the University of California, Davis, a decision that would mark the beginning of her illustrious career in the wine industry. There, she delved into the world of viticulture and enology, equipping herself with the technical expertise and the nuanced understanding necessary to excel in the field of winemaking.

Kate’s journey in winemaking took her across continents, allowing her to hone her skills and broaden her perspective. Between 2009 and 2011, she immersed herself in the diverse wine cultures of New Zealand, Portugal, and Australia, participating in harvests that exposed her to a wide array of grape varieties and winemaking techniques. This global experience was punctuated by a stint in her home state of Oregon at Bethel Heights, where she reconnected with the unique terroir of the Pacific Northwest.

In 2011, Kate’s career took a significant leap forward when she joined Hess Collection Winery as an Associate Winemaker. During her tenure, which lasted until 2016, Kate’s talent and dedication shone through. She played a pivotal role in crafting exceptional wines, further solidifying her reputation in the industry.

However, the lure of the Pacific Northwest and its signature Pinot Noir was irresistible. Answering this call, Kate returned north and joined Penner-Ash Wine Cellars, a move that would mark a significant milestone in her career. Her expertise, vision, and commitment to quality quickly propelled her to the role of Winemaker in the spring of 2018, a position she holds with distinction.

Kate’s approach to winemaking is deeply influenced by her early years spent in harmony with nature. She brings to her work a meticulous attention to detail and a reverence for the land, ensuring that each bottle of wine is not only a testament to her skill but also a tribute to the rich, diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

Outside the winery, Kate’s life is as full and vibrant as her career. She cherishes her time in the wilderness, exploring and reconnecting with the natural wonders that shaped her childhood. Accompanied by her daughter Elyse, son Nico, her husband and fellow winemaker Hans, and their black Labrador Kima, Kate’s life is a beautiful blend of family, nature, and wine, each element enriching the other.

In every bottle of wine that Kate Ayres crafts, there is a story. It’s a story of a journey from the rugged coastlines of Oregon to the prestigious vineyards of the Pacific Northwest, of years spent learning and growing, of harvests across continents, and of a life lived in harmony with the land. Kate Ayres is more than a winemaker; she is a storyteller, and her wines are her narrative, rich, complex, and utterly compelling.