Argyle Winery Names Kate Payne Brown as New Head Winemaker

DUNDEE, Ore. — Argyle Winery in Dundee has appointed Kate Payne Brown as its new head winemaker, marking only the third person to hold the title since the winery’s founding in 1987 according to the winery.

Payne Brown brings more than two decades of winemaking experience to the role, including key positions at Archery Summit, Stoller Family Estate, and Ambar Estate. She also runs her own boutique label, Dolores Wines, which has gained attention for its sparkling wine.

“When I reflect on my journey, every road has led me to Argyle,” Payne Brown said. “Argyle is one of the most dynamic and inspiring wineries in Oregon, and stepping into this new chapter as winemaker is an incredible honor.”

The announcement follows the departure of longtime winemaker Nate Klostermann, who wrapped up his 20th harvest with Argyle last fall.

“Nate helped to write an important new chapter in the Argyle story,” said Geoff Hall, director of operations. “He is leaving Argyle better, stronger, and poised for even greater success ahead.”

Payne Brown holds a biology degree from the University of Oregon and a master’s in oenology from the University of Adelaide in Australia. After returning to Oregon, she spent several years as assistant winemaker at Archery Summit before gaining international experience in Burgundy and Champagne wine growing regions in France. During her nine-year tenure at Stoller, she helped launch its in-house sparkling program and later co-founded Vinovate Wine Services, a custom crush facility in the Willamette Valley.

“Kate is a superstar and the perfect person to build on Argyle’s legacy,” said Erica Miller, vineyard manager at Argyle. “She’s a brilliant and innovative winemaker, a sparkling wine expert, and a collaborative leader who elevates everyone she works with.”

Founded in downtown Dundee nearly four decades ago, Argyle has long been a fixture in the Willamette Valley wine scene. Best known for its sparkling wines, the winery also produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling from its 500 acres of estate vineyards.

Though new to the title, Payne Brown’s connection to Argyle runs deep—Argyle Brut was the wine that first sparked her interest in sparkling, and she poured the Blanc de Blancs at her wedding.

“She’s already part of the Argyle story,” Miller said. “Now she’s helping write the next chapter.”