The winery expands communication efforts as it begins a strategic push into new markets and long-term growth through their estate vineyard holdings
CARLTON, Ore., Sept. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — McCollum Heritage 91, Willamette Valley wine producer founded by CJ and Elise McCollum, is pleased to announce its partnership with Colangelo & Partners, a leading fine wine, spirits, and lifestyle public relations agency. The partnership is designed to enhance brand awareness as the winery looks to expand its distribution nationwide, and support long-term growth. The strategic communications program will spotlight CJ and Elise’s commitment to planting roots in Oregon, building a family legacy, and quality, sustainably-forward winemaking.
“We are thrilled to partner with Colangelo & Partners as we enter this exciting new era of growth for McCollum Heritage 91,” said CJ McCollum, Co-Founder of McCollum Heritage 91. “This will help us share our love of wine and family values, the unique power of connection, and our ongoing pursuit for Oregon excellence with a diverse national audience.”
Founded in 2020, McCollum Heritage 91 began from a seed of wine curiosity and passion – stemming from gifted wine from family, connecting deeply over a glass, and an unprecedented exploration of the Oregon winemaking scene. CJ and Elise blend their distinct professional backgrounds – CJ’s as an NBA player and Elise’s as a dentist – they’ve established a winery that reflects both familial legacy and forward-thinking values. Since purchasing a 318-acre property in the Willamette Valley, their goal of producing high quality estate wines through ethical practices has inched closer to reality, with 56 acres of the land now planted.
“Building this brand and business alongside CJ as my teammate has been one of the great journeys of our lives. We are eager to share our story, wines, and family legacy with the world, especially as we intentionally continue to grow and evolve day in and day out,” mentions Elise McCollum, Co-Founder of McCollum Heritage 91.
What began as a shared love of wine has grown into a purpose-driven family business – making exceptional, high quality wines and farming the right way. Family and love was at the heart of CJ and Elise’s decision to join the wine industry, working together to build something for their children and leave a legacy for McCollum generations to come.
“We are honored to work with CJ and Elise to share McCollum Heritage 91’s compelling story and unique positioning,” said Michelle Erland, Junior Partner & Domestic Division Account Director at Colangelo & Partners. “This brand embodies the importance of cultural connection, legacy building, and forward-thinking sustainability, showcasing its dedication to quality and community-driven ethos and makes for a welcome addition to our client base.”
The winery currently produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rosé, and Blanc de Blancs. For more information on McCollum Heritage 91, please visit: mccollumheritage91.com.
About McCollum Heritage 91
Founded in 2020, McCollum Heritage 91 began as the passion project of CJ McCollum and his wife, Elise. Elise was the driving force behind CJ’s love of wine, having introduced him to Oregon’s wine scene during his time on the Portland Trail Blazers. CJ and Elise were so taken with Oregon’s wines that they purchased a 318-acre property in Yamhill-Carlton AVA in the Willamette Valley with the intention of creating high-quality and expressive Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. As of 2025, 56 acres of the estate have been planted and CJ and Elise are inching toward their goal of producing all-estate wines, all while creating a legacy for their children that stretches far beyond CJ’s basketball career.
About Colangelo & Partners
Colangelo & Partners is the leading fine wine and spirits integrated communications agency in the United States, sought after by top brands and industry players for quality results, creativity and a return on investment. The professionals at Colangelo & Partners work with integrity and passion to influence how US audiences perceive their clients: earning consistent, high-quality positive media coverage; organizing signature events; strategizing and executing standout digital campaigns, and implementing trade programs that strengthen relationships within the industry. Colangelo & Partners’ clientele includes global, instantly recognizable brands, and passionate, up-and-coming vignerons and distillers, regional and national institutions and technology and e-commerce companies innovating in the beverage alcohol sector.
Media Contact: Courtney Conte, [email protected]
SOURCE McCollum Heritage 91
