February 29, 2024 / Wine Happy Women's History Month from Domaine Serene

Celebrating the Women of Domaine Serene

Our Roots

Our owner Grace Evenstad co-founded Domaine Serene in 1989 and has epitomized a commitment to excellence within the wine industry for the last 35 years. With accolades such as the Oregon Wine Press Persons of the Year and the Wine Spectator Distinguished Service Award, Grace's leadership has been pivotal in elevating Domaine Serene to its esteemed status.

Today, Domaine Serene stewards eight vineyard estates, each contributing to wines known for their complexity and elegance. Beyond winemaking, Grace's philanthropic endeavors, including support for four Women in Wine charities, reflect her commitment to giving back. With 67% women leadership in the company and six women-led and operated departments, Domaine Serene Winery serves as a beacon of diversity and empowerment. Throughout this National Women's Month, we celebrate Grace Evenstad for everything she does to shape Domaine Serene Winery into a symbol of excellence and empowerment in the wine world.

In her own words, "Building a legacy in world-class winemaking is a dream come true for me. The passion that this winery was born out of continues to inspire us to strive for new heights each and every day."

Meet the Newest Women to Our Leadership Team Liz & Lindsey

Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer

Liz Lease-McCaffrey

What were you doing before coming to Domaine Serene? What brought you into the wine industry?
I have lived in NYC and CA throughout my career, and prior to the wine industry, I was a network system engineer. I love wine – both the product itself and the cultural and historical impact that the industry has had for thousands of years. I now have 20+ years of experience in the wine industry, primarily on the West Coast.

What sets Domaine Serene apart from any other winery?
The quality standard of the wine was the primary reason for joining Domaine Serene. As our owner Grace Evenstad once said, “I’m a Pinot gal.” Since I’ve arrived here, I have also really enjoyed the team, the culture, and the commitment to excellence across all aspects of the business.

What is your favorite food and wine pairing?
I love everything from a simply beautiful cheese and wine pairing to fresh oysters and sparkling wine. My husband Paul also makes a wonderful rigatoni and sauce (Grandmother’s recipe from Northern Italy) that we recently loved with the 2015 ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir.

Vice President of Member & Consumer Engagement

Lindsey Jessup

How did you get into the wine industry?
After graduating college, a family friend who was a winemaker referred me to a job opening in their Trade Hospitality department. With a knack for event planning and a love for wine, I took the opportunity and never looked back. Seventeen years later, my journey in the wine industry continues.

What is your favorite thing about the wine industry and working with the women at Domaine Serene?
My favorite aspect of working in the wine industry, especially at Domaine Serene, is witnessing more women rise to leadership positions. Many of us have navigated a zig-zag path through various roles, resulting in broad skill sets that prove valuable as the industry evolves. It's truly exciting to see my female peers ascend within our industry!

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
If a door opens, walk through without hesitation. Never stop learning!

Get to Know More of Our Incredible Talent The Women That Make It All Possible

A woman poses with a glass of wine in a winery

Sommelier

Elishca

How did you get into the wine industry?
My journey into the wine world started back when I was exposed to some incredible wines while working at a fine dining restaurant in college. I started doing research on my own, digging into everything I could find about winemaking. From exploring the complexities of soil composition and elevation to understanding the art of blending and fermentation techniques; each bottle has its own little story, and I couldn't get enough of it!

What is your favorite thing about the wine industry and working with the women at Domaine Serene?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is sharing my passion for wine with others, whether through storytelling or witnessing their discovery of wine. At Domaine Serene, I'm privileged to deepen my understanding of winemaking alongside inspiring female colleagues who balance authenticity with professional excellence, reminding me of the remarkable talent and diversity within our industry.

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
Carve out a unique space in this thriving industry! Embrace your personality, leverage your skills, and infuse your ideas into your work. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire, challenge, and uplift you. Don't hesitate to seek guidance or support when needed—asking for help is a sign of determination. Take bold leaps of faith, fueled by your passion and strong work ethic. Remember, enthusiasm and dedication can outweigh any lack of experience.

A woman in a turtleneck sweater posing outside Domaine Serene Winery.

Director of People & Culture

Zoe

How did you get into the wine industry?
My career journey began at a boutique food & beverage PR firm post-college, where I gained insights into hospitality and the Portland food scene. Transitioning into hospital administration and manufacturing, I discovered my passion for people operations. Joining Domaine Serene allowed me to merge my love for hospitality and people operations in a remarkable industry, where I have the privilege of learning and working with top talent.

What is your favorite thing about the wine industry and working with the women at Domaine Serene?
It’s extremely inspirational to have representation of women at every single level of the organization. Because we work so closely together, we’re very attuned to what each of us has going on and we fiercely support each other. Regarding Domaine Serene in general, I don’t think I’ve ever worked with such a talented group of people – it’s pretty astounding what we’re able to accomplish!

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
I think it’s a great time for women in wine and it’s only going to get better. My biggest piece of advice would be to help each other rise – if you have a seat at the table, then use your voice to get someone else a seat at the table.

Director of Marketing

Jamie

How did you get into the wine industry?
I made the leap into the wine industry after spending years in the BTB marketing world. I've always been a wine lover and had been a fan of Domaine Serene from a distance for ages. So, when the chance came to dive headfirst into the wine industry, I couldn't resist. It's an industry I'm incredibly passionate about and getting to work with both our French and Oregon wineries has been a dream come true. It's been a wild ride so far, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity to follow my passion.

What is your favorite thing about the wine industry and working with the women at Domaine Serene?
My favorite thing about working with women in the wine industry, especially at Domaine Serene, is the incredible sense of drive and ambition that permeates the environment. I am constantly surrounded by capable, intelligent, and determined individuals who inspire me to push myself and work hard. It is truly rewarding to witness our team collaboratively bringing our visions to life.

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
Take chances, step out of your comfort zone, and don't be afraid to assert yourself. Remember that you have the power to make a lasting impression, so lead by example and be the kind of leader you would aspire to follow.

Senior Director of Sales

Britta

How did you get into the wine industry?
Studying Culinary and Hospitality in college introduced me to the concept of enhancing food experiences with perfectly paired wines. This sparked a passion for wine, further fueled by wine classes and extensive travel. I now have the privilege of representing Domaine Serene, sharing our wines with people worldwide.

What is your favorite thing about working at Domaine Serene?
Grace Evenstad is an inspiration to me. She is the driving force behind the passion for creating the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Oregon for 35 years! Additionally, we have some of the most dynamic women in the industry working here. I get excited by the collaboration and energy of all of us working together creating new projects, solving problems, and driving the company to new heights.

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
My advice is to be tenacious and never stop learning. There is wine from all over the world and with it comes unique history, culture, and terroir. If you are passionate and driven, the wine industry is a fabulous career that will lead to amazing travel and one-of-a-kind experiences!

A woman poses with a glass of wine in front of Oregon winery and vineyards

Director of Sales Operations

Kayla

How did you get into the wine industry?
During my last year at Oregon State, I interned during harvest as a “Winery Systems Engineer” at a winery in California. I fell in love with the industry and haven’t looked back!

What is your favorite thing about the wine industry and working with the women at Domaine Serene?
My favorite aspect of the wine industry is our "casual intensity" approach. We're deeply passionate about our wine's quality and ensuring each guest has a special experience. Despite long hours and constant improvement, we always find time for laughter and appreciation of our unique industry. The women at Domaine Serene are inspiring, strong, and driven, serving as role models I'm privileged to work alongside.

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
There is no ceiling too high, you deserve a seat at the table, and there is room for all of us to reach our most aspirational goals. Just keep going – and find a friend who you can lean on to empathize with you & also push you to be your best.

A woman in a yellow sweater sitting at a table enjoying wine

Director of Financial Planning & Analysis

Kathryn

How did you get into the wine industry?
With a background in large-scale apparel retail, I was interested in finding a more niche landscape and becoming ingrained in the local Oregon community. I’ve loved learning more about wine and applying my background in financial analytics to this industry and specifically at Domaine Serene.

What is your favorite thing about working at Domaine Serene?
I love the grit that’s required and the opportunity to surround myself with a team that drives for success every day but also supports each other through the ups and downs.

Any advice for the future generation of women in wine?
The risk is worth the reward!