A Year in the Spotlight
As we close the chapter on 2025, we’re pausing to reflect on a year that brought meaningful recognition—not just for the wines in the glass, but for the people, values, and legacy behind them. From top-tier wine scores to thoughtful features celebrating our history and community impact, this year’s press affirmed what we’ve always believed: Knudsen Vineyards is built on depth, intention, and connection.
Critical Acclaim Across Our 2022 Releases
The 2022 vintage earned consistent praise across Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with standout scores from some of the most respected voices in wine. These reviews reflect both the strength of the vintage and our continued focus on site expression, balance, and age-worthiness.
2022 Family Series Chardonnay
- 93 – Decanter
- 93 – Owen Bargreen
- 91 – Wine Spectator
- 91 – International Wine Report
- 90 – Vinous
- 90 – Wine Enthusiast
2022 Founders Series “JLK” Chardonnay
- 94 – Owen Bargreen
- 94 – International Wine Report
2020 Blanc De Blancs
- 92 – Decanter
- “One of the best sparkling wines for gift giving” – Forbes
2022 Family Series Pinot Noir
- 94 – Owen Bargreen
- 93 – Decanter
- 93 – Wine Spectator
- 92 – Vinous
- 91 – International Wine Report
2022 Talking Blocks Series “Snapshot” Pinot Noir
- 94 – Owen Bargreen
- 94 – International Wine Report
- 92 – Vinous
2022 Talking Blocks Series “Backstory” Pinot Noir
- 94 – Owen Bargreen
- 93 – International Wine Report
- 93 – Decanter
- 91 – Vinous
2022 Founders Series “CCK” Pinot Noir
- 94 – Owen Bargreen
- 94 – International Wine Report
In an August 21, 2025 feature, Owen Bargreen summed up the vintage with a phrase that still makes us smile—calling it a “fantastic new Pinot Noir release by Knudsen Vineyards!” High praise, and one we’re proud to stand behind.
Honoring Our Roots: Oregon Wine Press — Blazing the Trail
(April 30, 2025)
In a deeply moving feature, Oregon Wine Press spotlighted the often-unheralded women who helped build Oregon’s wine industry. The article paid special tribute to Julia Lee Knudsen and the family-first philosophy that shaped Knudsen Vineyards from the very beginning.
“My mother emphasized it was a family project, and she followed through with that promise,” shared Page Knudsen Cowles, reflecting on planting the vineyard alongside her parents, Julia Lee Knudsen and Cal Knudsen.
The piece revisited Knudsen’s early milestones—from planting 30 acres in the Dundee Hills (then the largest vineyard in the Willamette Valley) to pioneering vineyard practices and forging the legendary Knudsen-Erath partnership. It also highlighted the long-standing relationship with Argyle Winery. a collaboration now spanning nearly four decades.
Julia Lee’s legacy of innovation, community-building, and artistic patronage continues to shape how we farm, host, and show up in the world today.
Giving Back & Looking Forward: Oregon Wine Press — Generous Pour 2025
(October 31, 2025)
Another meaningful feature came in Generous Pour 2025, which explored how Oregon wineries are strengthening their communities beyond the vineyard. The article highlighted Page Knudsen Cowles’ leadership across multiple nonprofit boards and Knudsen Vineyards’ commitment to giving back.
From donating five percent of Family Series sales to Wine Country Pride, to supporting One Tree Planted, Yamhill Community Action Partnership, Western Bluebird Recovery, and DEBI initiatives within the Willamette Valley wine community, the story underscored a belief we hold deeply: success is only meaningful when it’s shared.
As chair of the Willamette Valley Wine Foundation, Page captured the spirit of Oregon wine perfectly:
“Oregon wine is really about connections and relationships.”
A Year to Be Grateful For
The press we received in 2025 reflects more than scores or headlines—it tells a fuller story of who we are. A family vineyard rooted in history. A farming team committed to thoughtful stewardship. A winery that believes wine can—and should—be a force for good.
To our community, our partners, and everyone who shared a glass of Knudsen wine with us this year: thank you for being part of the story. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings.
