A Visionary in American Winemaking
Brent Evenstad was more than a businessman—he was a pioneering force in American winemaking who helped elevate Oregon’s Willamette Valley to global prominence. Alongside his wife, Debra, he co-founded Domaine Serene in 1989, investing not only capital but immense personal passion into producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. At a time when the Oregon wine industry was still finding its footing, Brent’s vision was bold: to create wines that could rival the best of Burgundy. Under his leadership, Domaine Serene achieved that goal, earning international awards and critical acclaim. Evenstad’s meticulous attention to detail, insistence on quality, and respect for the land helped establish a new benchmark in American viticulture.
Transforming a Region: The Oregon Wine Renaissance
Brent Evenstad played a central role in transforming Oregon from a quiet, under-recognized wine region into a major player on the world stage. In the early days, few believed that Oregon could produce wines that stood alongside the top French or Californian labels. But Brent saw potential in the climate, soil, and spirit of the region. He was among the first to invest significantly in hillside vineyards at high elevations, recognizing their potential for creating complex, balanced wines. His success brought not only recognition to his own label but attention to the region as a whole. Many other wineries followed in his footsteps, benefitting from the groundwork he laid. Today, Willamette Valley is synonymous with quality, in no small part due to Brent’s pioneering investments and belief in the region’s promise.
Philosophy of Excellence and Innovation
What set Brent Evenstad apart from many of his peers was his unwavering commitment to excellence and constant innovation. He believed that making great wine was both an art and a science, and he dedicated himself to mastering both. From the layout of the vineyards to the architectural design of the winery, every detail reflected a pursuit of perfection. Brent adopted sustainable practices before they became industry standards and was known for investing in top-tier winemaking equipment and barrel-aging programs. He didn’t cut corners, even when it would have been easier or more profitable to do so. His wines reflected that ethos—elegant, powerful, and deeply expressive. His philosophy wasn’t about simply making good wine; it was about pushing the boundaries of what American wine could be.
Building a Legacy Beyond the Bottle
Although wine was his primary medium, Brent Evenstad’s influence extended far beyond the vineyards. He was a philanthropist and community builder who believed in giving back. His support for healthcare, education, and the arts—particularly in Oregon and Minnesota—reflected his deep commitment to service. Brent and Debra Evenstad made significant charitable contributions, including a $6 million donation to the Linfield University wine studies program. Brent’s legacy is not only seen in the awards on the bottles of Domaine Serene but in the lives he touched and the future he helped shape.
Global Ambitions: Crossing Continents
Brent Evenstad’s vision wasn’t limited to Oregon. In 2015, he made history when Domaine Serene acquired Château de la Crée, a historic Burgundy estate in France. This move symbolized a rare full-circle moment: an American winemaker investing in the birthplace of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It was a bold statement of confidence and ambition, showing that the Evenstads didn’t just admire Burgundy—they were ready to compete on its soil. This acquisition allowed Domaine Serene to operate on both sides of the Atlantic, blending Old World tradition with New World innovation. Brent’s global ambitions helped redefine what was possible for American wineries, making him not just a regional pioneer but a global industry leader.
