Abbey Creek Vineyard

Abbey Creek Vineyard operates as a winery and hospitality service provider, notable for being founded by Oregon's first recorded Black winemaker, Bertony Faustin. The business model circumvents traditional retail channels, focusing on direct-to-consumer sales through its two tasting rooms in North Plains and Portland, Oregon, and online shipments. This strategy enhances customer engagement and builds a loyal community around the brand. The tasting rooms are designed as inclusive, community-focused spaces, diverging from conventional wineries by featuring hip-hop music and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.

The vineyard's history began in 1981 when the first five acres of vines were planted. Bertony Faustin, born in Brooklyn to Haitian immigrants, transitioned from a career as an anesthesia technician to winemaking following the death of his father in 2007. In 2008, he established the Abbey Creek wine label, taking over his in-laws' property and expanding the vineyard. Faustin, a self-taught winemaker, is involved in the entire process from viticulture to sales. His journey and the challenges faced by minorities in the wine industry were highlighted in his documentary, "Red, White & Black."

The company's core product is its wine, produced from grape varietals including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. However, the brand's unique selling proposition is the experience and community it fosters, described with the motto "Hip Hop, wine, and chill." Revenue is generated through wine sales, wine club memberships, and events hosted at its tasting rooms. By focusing on creating an accessible and culturally relevant experience, the company has established a distinct market position that attracts a diverse clientele beyond traditional wine enthusiasts.

Keywords: Oregon winery, Black-owned winery, Bertony Faustin, direct-to-consumer wine, wine tasting experience, hip-hop winery, community-focused business, North Plains Oregon, Portland wine, inclusive hospitality, wine club, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Red White & Black documentary, non-traditional winery, wine and culture, diverse winemakers, vineyard to glass, boutique winery, beverage industry