At Knudsen Vineyards, sustainability isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live by. For over 50 years, our family has cared for this land, knowing that great wine starts with a thriving ecosystem. The Dundee Hills have given us so much, and it’s only fair that we return the favor. After all, we’re not just making wine for today—we’re making sure future generations (of both people and grapes) can enjoy it too.
That’s why every decision we make—from how we farm our vines to who we partner with—is guided by a deep respect for the environment. Sustainability isn’t a trend here; it’s a promise. And let’s be honest—wine always tastes better when it’s made with a little extra love for the planet.
53 Acres of Forest: A Natural Sanctuary
Beyond the vines, Knudsen Vineyards is home to 53 acres of untouched forest, a rare and valuable resource in the Willamette Valley. These woodlands play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, providing habitat for countless birds, mammals, and beneficial insects that contribute to the health of our vineyard.
Among these trees stand mature Oregon White Oaks, some of the last of their kind. More than 97% of the historic Oregon White Oak habitat in the Willamette Valley has disappeared, making the preservation of these trees more important than ever. These slow-growing, majestic oaks are not only a piece of Oregon’s natural heritage but also a vital part of the ecosystem, supporting hundreds of species that rely on them for food and shelter.
By maintaining and protecting these forests, we’re ensuring that future generations of both wildlife and wine lovers will continue to enjoy the beauty and balance of this land.
Drink Wine, Plant Trees
Each Arbor Day, we turn wine tasting into a force for good. For every reservation at The Outlook, we donate to the Arbor Day Foundation to help plant trees in forests that need them most. So, yes—you can save the planet and sip Chardonnay at the same time. Multitasking at its finest.
Reforestation is more than just putting trees in the ground. It’s about restoring balance, creating clean air, and giving woodland creatures new places to throw their tiny housewarming parties. Trees also play a critical role in fighting climate change, preventing erosion, and improving biodiversity.
So, when you visit us on Arbor Day, know that your tasting isn’t just about discovering delicious wines—it’s about leaving the world a little greener than you found it. And if you need an excuse to pour another glass, “It’s for the trees” is always a good one.
Sustainability in Every Sip
Great wine starts with great soil, and we take that seriously. The vineyards surrounding The Outlook aren’t just there to look pretty (though they do a fantastic job of that)—they’re also working hard behind the scenes.
We plant native flowers, shrubs, and grasses to create a pollinator paradise, giving bees and butterflies a place to do their thing. Cover crops between the vines help prevent erosion, improve soil health, and naturally manage pests—because if we can avoid using herbicides, we absolutely will. Plus, the vines seem to enjoy the company.
Water conservation is another big focus for us. As a Certified Salmon-Safe vineyard, we take extra steps to prevent runoff and protect local waterways. A small creek runs through our property before joining the Willamette River, and we’ve done everything we can to keep it pristine. Keeping salmon happy may not be an official winemaking rule, but we like to think it helps keep the good karma flowing.
A Haven for Oregon’s Western Bluebirds
Sustainability isn’t just about the vines—it’s also about the creatures that share this land with us. Since 1998, we’ve been proud supporters of Oregon’s Western Bluebird population, a species that’s had a rough time due to habitat loss.
With the Prescott Bluebird Recovery Project, we’ve installed nesting boxes throughout the vineyard, providing these bright blue beauties with a safe place to raise their young. So far, 154 bluebirds have fledged from our vineyard, which we like to think makes us a kind of unofficial birdie bed-and-breakfast.
For visitors, spotting a Western Bluebird among the vines is a real treat. And if you hear them chirping, we’d like to think they’re saying “thank you” (but, you know, in bird).
Sustainable Winemaking with Vinovate
Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at the vineyard—it continues in the cellar. That’s why we partner with Vinovate, a custom crush facility that is making waves in environmentally responsible winemaking.
Vinovate is working toward multiple sustainability certifications, including Organic, Salmon-Safe, Bee-Friendly, and Regenerative Organic Certification®. They’ve got sheep mowing the vineyard rows (because who needs gas-powered mowers when you have adorable, eco-friendly ones?), and they’re developing electric tractors with special sprayers to reduce sulfur use.
They’ve also installed raptor perches and kestrel boxes, giving birds of prey a front-row seat to nature’s version of pest control. It’s the circle of life—winery edition.
With each bottle of Knudsen wine, you’re not just tasting exceptional craftsmanship—you’re experiencing what happens when sustainability, innovation, and a little bit of farmyard creativity come together.
Join Us in Sipping Sustainably
Sustainability isn’t about making one big change—it’s about a bunch of small, thoughtful choices that add up over time. At Knudsen Vineyards, we believe responsible land stewardship and winemaking go hand in hand. From planting trees to protecting water quality to giving bluebirds a place to crash, we’re doing our part to make sure the Dundee Hills stay beautiful for years to come.
And you can be part of it. Whether you visit The Outlook, enjoy a bottle at home, or just share our story, you’re helping us make a difference. Because when we take care of the land, it takes care of us—one vine, one bluebird, and one glass of wine at a time.
