KEYNOTE CONVERSATION |Oregon Craft Beverage Leaders | Creative Disruption: The Future of Oregon Wine
Oregon’s craft culture was built on courage, creativity, and connection to place, and those same values continue to drive success for the state’s most dynamic producers.
In a moment when the ground feels shaky for many in the Oregon wine community, two Oregon craft beverage leaders are proving that strength and innovation can go hand in hand. Rudy Kellner (pFriem Family Brewers) and Nels Jewell-Larson (2 Towns Ciderhouse) have built brands that are not just surviving, but thriving, in an era of shifting consumer behavior and an evolving business climate. Moderated by Jesse Lyon (Davis Wright Tremaine), this keynote conversation explores how these companies stay true to their roots while innovating for the future through bold decision-making, strong internal culture, and values-based leadership.
For Oregon wine professionals, this session is both a mirror and a spark: a chance to look beyond the vineyard and gain fresh perspective from fellow Oregon makers who’ve weathered storms, built resilient teams, and stayed relevant without losing their soul. Expect candid insights, real-world lessons, and renewed inspiration for leading through uncertainty—with the Oregon spirit at the core.
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As the wine world evolves, Oregon is uniquely positioned to lead with creativity, courage, and a willingness to rethink old assumptions. Host Michael Alberty brings together acclaimed industry leaders Eugenia Keegan, Gary Mortensen, and Herb Quady for a spirited conversation about the moment and seeing opportunity. These industry veterans have seen every cycle and still believe the most exciting chapter is the one we haven’t written yet. Come ready to be challenged, energized, and inspired.
View the Session Recording
Speakers
Danielle Ball – Vice President of Sales, Galaxy Wine Company/Wilson Daniels
Jessica Endsworth – VP of Sales & Education, Solena Estate
Greg Reiter – Wine & Beer Program and Category Manager, New Seasons Market
Melaney Schmidt – Winemaker, Landmass Wines
Malia Myers – Winemaker, Landmass Wines
