Mini Byers

We’re excited to introduce you to a rising star in the winemaking world: Mini Byers. She’s the owner of Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden in Jacksonville, Oregon, and Johan Vineyards in the Willamette Valley. Mini took over these two biodynamic wineries in 2021 and has quickly built an amazing team focused on creating complex wines with a commitment to sustainable farming. Each vineyard has its own vibe and produces distinct wines, all driven by Mini's passion for letting the land shine through in every bottle. Growing up in California's wine scene, she’s got plenty of experience and now lives at Cowhorn with her husband and their 13-month-old daughter. When she’s not tending to the vineyards, Mini also runs Cowhorn Kitchen & Wine, a cozy restaurant that features fresh produce from the farm, and co-owns the newly renovated Tu Tu Tun Lodge and Restaurant on the Oregon Coast. As she gears up for her fall wine releases, we thought you’d love to learn more about her journey and the exciting wines coming your way.

Breaking Down With Minnie Byers

baby wakes up & harvest kicks off, coffee is vital
— 6:00 AM
head to vineyard to check in on harvest – picking Viognier this morning

— 7:30 AM
put baby down for nap & get a second cup before checking emails
— 9:00 AM
winery check in on processing
— 10:00 AM
time to eat somethingggg my goodness how is it only 11AM
— 11:00 AM
back to winery for another check in & tasting the pressed juice from today’s pick
— 1:00 PM
head to restaurant for GM meeting & bring today’s garden harvest

— 2:00 PM
baby time
— 4:00 PM
finally time to wind down, cook diner & have a martini
— 5:00 PM