From Soil Science to Sparkling Wines: Abby Young’s Journey in the Columbia Gorge
The Columbia Gorge AVA is home to an inspiring group of women winemakers who are shaping the future of the region. Among these trailblazers is Abby Young, Assistant Winemaker at Hawkins Cellars. With a passion for agriculture, a love for natural winemaking techniques, and a deep appreciation for the magic of fermentation, Abby is helping to redefine what’s possible in the Columbia Gorge.
An Accidental Beginning with Big Impact
Abby’s journey to the Columbia Gorge wasn’t exactly planned. “I actually landed here accidentally!” she admits, but it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with the region. As a self-proclaimed “soil nerd” with a background in agricultural science, Abby was drawn to the intersection of science and magic that winemaking offers. Her curiosity and dedication quickly found a home at Hawkins Cellars, where she has flourished under the mentorship of Thane Hawkins. “Thane opened the door for me and continually supported my winemaking journey. Beyond grateful for him.”
Why the Columbia Gorge AVA is So Exciting
Ask Abby what excites her about the Columbia Gorge AVA, and she lights up. “The climate of the Columbia Gorge is something really exciting about the area. There are infinite micro-climates that make every vineyard, cluster of grapes, and winery setting so unique!” The Columbia Gorge is often described as a region of extremes—where cool-climate Pinot Noir thrives alongside Rhône varietals and crisp whites. This diversity fuels Abby’s creativity and keeps her constantly experimenting with new approaches.
A Collaborative and Supportive Community
Being a woman winemaker in the Gorge means being part of a tight-knit, supportive network of like-minded professionals. “We are a kind, generous, and brilliant group of women making some of the best and most unique wine in the world! Between sharing tips, recipes, and labor—there’s nothing we wouldn’t do for each other. I feel so lucky to be supported by such lovely humans.” This collaborative spirit makes the Columbia Gorge not only a hub of innovation but also a community where women lift each other up, ensuring that the region continues to thrive.
Creativity and Hard Work Define Her Path
For Abby, being an “up-and-coming” winemaker means rolling up her sleeves and embracing the hard work that goes into every bottle. “It just means I like physical labor and this avenue of agriculture,” she says with a laugh. But it’s more than just the physical effort. Abby believes being a successful winemaker requires creativity and adaptability. “It means I work hard, I am creative in all avenues of life, and the Gorge has a special place in the world.”
Her love of creativity extends to her winemaking techniques as well. She’s particularly excited about exploring Pet-Nat (Pétillant Naturel), a sparkling wine made using natural fermentation. “I love a good ol’ Pet Nat! Natural fermentation, original funk style gets me going. The bubbles are popping off!” Her enthusiasm for this raw, vibrant style of winemaking reflects her desire to push boundaries and celebrate the untamed spirit of the Gorge.
A Bright Future for the Columbia Gorge
Looking ahead, Abby is confident that the Columbia Gorge is on the verge of something big. “I think the Columbia Gorge is gearing up to be a destination location of excellent wines, local food, and wonderful sightseeing. Everyone is taking notice of the hidden gem we live in!” As awareness of the region grows, Abby sees a future where the Columbia Gorge becomes a global destination for wine lovers seeking authenticity, diversity, and a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Breaking Down Barriers, One Bottle at a Time
Perhaps one of the most exciting things about the Columbia Gorge AVA is its rejection of wine snobbery. Abby emphasizes that “there’s no snobbery. If you have a know-it-all attitude or judgment about wines, it’ll probably fall on deaf ears. We cherish learning and sharing about wines. No one is better than the next—we all have something unique to bring to the table, and it is all celebrated!” This openness and inclusivity create a space where creativity flourishes, and everyone is encouraged to contribute to the region’s evolving identity.
Abby Young: A Creator at Heart
For Abby, being a winemaker is a natural extension of who she is. “To be a woman is to be a creator; winemaking is no exception! We are strong, compassionate, educated, and we make wine.” With her boundless enthusiasm, dedication, and innovative spirit, Abby is helping to shape the next era of winemaking in the Columbia Gorge. Her work at Hawkins Cellars is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance—proof that sometimes, the best journeys begin by accident.
As the Columbia Gorge AVA continues to gain recognition, trailblazers like Abby Young ensure that its future is bright, diverse, and full of possibility. Keep an eye on her work—because the best is yet to come.
