Our Story is rooted in the NorthWest
In 1981, winemaker and owner Dana Blizzard's parents purchased what is now the Estate Vineyard, initially selling their crop to Oregon’s founding wineries. In 1995, Dana and Nick met in high school, and their relationship blossomed. They married at the vineyard in 2003, marking the beginning of a deep connection with the land and the region.
By 2007, Dana took over management of the estate vineyard, restructuring it to produce premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and she went back to school to study winemaking for two years at the Northwest Wine Studies Center at Chemeketa Eola, finishing in 2010. Over the next year, Nick and Dana planned and in 2011, Blizzard Wines was founded, the first vintage was harvested and made in her parents’ garage.
In 2017, after selling out each vintage release, the Blizzards expanded and built a winery and tasting room at the Estate. Nick Blizzard, with his design expertise and keen eye for detail, spearheaded the project. He ensured the winery and tasting room would be an immersive experience, emphasizing transparency in the winemaking process. The thoughtful layout allows visitors to see and understand aspects of production. Nick's passion for creating amazing experiences sparkles through every corner and Dana’s talent for expressive, nuanced wines together provide visitors with memorable and impressive journey of Blizzard Wines.
Nick and Dana’s passion for French wine culture has fueled their frequent travels to discover and experience the latest trends. In 2019, they began importing their favorite inspiration, Grower Champagne. By 2023, the Blizzards discovered their ideal vineyard location, nestled near the Tasting Hall in the Laurelwood District on Chehalem Mountain. Today, they are dedicated to planting and nurturing their dream vineyard, with the inaugural harvest anticipated for the fall of 2028.