The origin story of this Pacific Northwest born, owned and operated company started with one of the founders, Jessica Walsh, pursuing a degree in Enology and Viticulture from Oregon State University. Upon graduating, she dedicated 15 years to various wineries, gathering valuable experience in various regions, including Oregon, Washington, California and New Zealand. 

In the course of these events, Jessica ignited a newfound enthusiasm in her parents, Frank and Joleen Walsh. They, in turn, established a “Wine Club” with friends who shared their passion for winemaking. This collaborative effort pooled together labor and resources to make their own wine and continued to do so for six harvests. These journeys intersected when the family made a collective decision to embark on an endeavor together to start their own winery and OutWest Wines was born. 

Jessica holds the esteemed role of Head Winemaker, overseeing our wine programs. Joleen naturally took on the role of CFO and Cellar Master, utilizing her background in accounting to manage all the financial aspects while also rolling up her sleeves to spearhead the laborious cellar responsibilities to ensure our winery and cidery equipment are meticulously maintained and prepared for the next production cycle. Meanwhile, Frank was entrusted with the role of Quality Control Officer, a duty he carries out with unwavering dedication. This former engineer and home brewer meticulously samples every new batch (multiple times) to ensure the highest quality and any surplus that remains becomes available to you, our valued customer.

once upon a vine

enology (n.) - the science and study of wine and winemaking.

Derived from the Greek word oinos "wine" and the suffix –logia the "study of"

viticulture (n.) - the science of the growing, cultivation, and harvesting of grapes.

Derived from the Latin words vitis “vine” and -culture, such as agriculture.

Amidst the boredom of the pandemic. Frank looked for a personal challenge beyond his home brewed beer, most notably his Pale Ale and classic Pilsner. Living in Washington State, he wanted to pay homage to the region's fertile orchards where juicy, hand-picked apples were readily available to be transformed into small-batch craft ciders. After mastering what would later serve as the foundational recipe, he then aimed to expand the selection with captivating flavors. This is where his wife, Joleen, and daughter, Jessica, came in to help develop bold flavors. Their guiding principle throughout this creative journey was a refusal to settle for the mundane. Together they created innovative twists on the classics as well as others inspired by the authentic flavors of the Pacific Northwest, all of which will take your taste buds on a journey.

What started as a side project during the isolation of the pandemic has grown into an integral part of the business, which is now reflected in the name, OutWest Wines and Ciders. During the incorporation and branding of OutWest Ciders, we aimed to not just focus on the high quality of the cider itself; but the experience.  We wholeheartedly embrace the values of family traditions, close-knit friendships, a profound sense of community, and the camaraderie that naturally flows from these connections. Whether you find yourself basking on a sunlit patio or relishing a cozy evening by the warmth of a fire, our 16oz bottles beckon you to partake in meaningful moments outdoors with your most cherished companions and new friends.

A west-SIDE Cider story

Meet the Team

  • Frank & Joleen

    HEAD BREWER & CELLAR MASTER

    Meet Frank and Joleen Walsh, one of the two founding couples at the heart of OutWest Wines and Ciders. Frank, a Chemical Engineer by profession, serves as our Head Brewer and Quality Control Officer. His deep understanding of the science behind chemical processes is the secret behind the exceptional taste in our products, especially our ciders. Frank's meticulous approach and discerning palate ensures that every batch meets the highest standards of quality.

    Joleen, our CFO and Cellar Master, has a keen eye for detail which plays a crucial part in both her roles. Beyond managing all financial aspects, which is no small task, she plays a crucial role in keeping the day-to-day operations running smoothly. Joleen's hands-on approach as Cellar Master ensures that our winery and cidery equipment are pristine and primed for each step in the production cycle. In doing so, she frees up precious time for cherished moments with the family.

    Together, Frank and Joleen embody the perfect blend of expertise, passion, and dedication, which has made OutWest Wines the embodiment of quality and tradition that it is today.

  • Steve & Jessica

    LEAD MECHANIC & HEAD WINEMAKER

    Steve and Jessica, the other dynamic founding couple behind OutWest Wines and Ciders, bring their unique expertise to our winemaking journey. Steve, our skilled lead mechanic, played a key role in getting our facilities up and running. Now he ensures that every piece of equipment runs like clockwork, contributing to the seamless production of our wines and ciders. While Steve is admittedly, “not a wine type of guy.” He enjoys joining in on the development of future cider flavors, concocting the ‘Blazberry’ a Blackberry and Raspberry fusion.

    Jessica, our talented Head Winemaker, is the creative force behind our wines. With a degree in Enology and years of industry experience, each harvest and varietal she oversees is a testament to her expertise and passion. The care and dedication she devotes to each step in the winemaking process results in consistently exceptional wines that captivate year after year. Together, Steve and Jessica form a dynamic duo that is the cornerstone and future of our winery. They are the driving force behind our commitment to delivering top-tier products and reaching new heights, allowing us to serve more and more patrons OutWest.

  • Remi

    WINERY DOG

    Meet Remi, the heart and soul of our winery. Remi is our beloved winery dog, a Miniature Australian Shepherd. With her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm, she brings a unique spirit to our workplace.

    Remi's daily tasks include spreading joy, providing comfort, and ensuring that everyone's spirits are lifted. Her presence reminds us of the importance of savoring life's simple pleasures.

    In her free time, you will always find Remi with her most prized possession, her ball. When not playing fetch, she likes spending her time outdoors and taking naps on the back porch, dreaming of all the balls she'll chase later. She embodies the spirit of our winery, where family, tradition, and a love for what we do are at the core of everything.