Jackson Family Wines Doubles Big Salt Production After Oregon Acquisition

Jackson Family Wines, a major player in the California wine industry, has expanded its reach in Oregon with the acquisition of Big Salt, a brand known for its dry white blends. The deal was announced Sunday by the Santa Rosa-based company. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Big Salt was founded in 2016 by Ksenija Kostic House and John House. The brand quickly gained attention for its aromatic blends featuring riesling, gewürztraminer, and muscat grapes. These wines are recognized for their bright acidity, minimal intervention winemaking, and accessible pricing. The grapes are sourced from organically and sustainably farmed vineyards across Oregon, from the Columbia River Gorge to southern regions of the state. While the Houses do not own these vineyards, they have built strong relationships with local growers.

The acquisition adds Big Salt to Jackson Family Wines’ growing Oregon portfolio, which already includes Penner-Ash Wine Cellars and WillaKenzie Estate—both purchased in 2016. The company now produces between 30,000 and 40,000 cases of Oregon wine annually at its facilities, including a large winery in McMinnville.

Big Salt has developed a loyal following among younger consumers and fans of white wine blends. In 2025, Jackson Family Wines produced 25,000 cases of Big Salt wines using grapes from across Oregon.

Eugenia Keegan, senior vice president of Oregon winegrowing and business development at Jackson Family Wines, explained that the company’s interest in Big Salt was partly driven by market shifts involving sauvignon blanc. After Chateau Ste. Michelle canceled 40% of its fruit contracts in Washington in 2023, Jackson Family Wines sought new sources for sauvignon blanc but found limited options. This led them to focus on white blends, where Big Salt stood out during internal tastings.

Keegan reached out to John House at a time when he was considering expanding Big Salt’s production but faced financial constraints. Since its launch, Big Salt’s annual production grew to 20,000 cases but continued to sell out quickly. Selling out too fast can be risky for a brand because it may lose shelf space in stores and restaurants—a challenge that can be costly and difficult to reverse.

For Jackson Family Wines, acquiring Big Salt was a straightforward decision. Keegan said the company wanted to work with new grape varieties and interesting blends while supporting established vineyards.

Both parties agreed that there would be no significant changes to how Big Salt wines are made. Ksenija Kostic House will consult on winemaking with Alex Nichols, an Oregon-based winemaker for Jackson Family Wines who previously worked with her at Argyle Winery. John House will join the sales team to promote the brand.

The Houses have signed five-year contracts with Jackson Family Wines to ensure a smooth transition. This arrangement allows them more time to focus on their other projects: Ovum Wines, launched in 2011, and EZ TGR, which produces affordable Willamette Valley pinot noir and chardonnay. They also plan to spend more time with their family.

Last fall, House and Nichols collaborated at the McMinnville facility to produce nearly double the previous output of Big Salt wines. The 2025 lineup includes Big Salt and PNK Salt ($19 each), Big Salt Orange Rosé ($22), and Old Love ($24). The flagship Big Salt blend continues to feature riesling as its core component.

The increased production was made possible by Jackson Family Wines’ resources, which allowed them to purchase all available fruit from partner vineyards rather than just a portion. This change provides greater flexibility in harvest timing and improves economic stability for vineyard owners.

Looking ahead, fans can expect some changes from Big Salt under its new ownership. Plans are underway to offer some wines in cans and possibly introduce a sparkling version of Big Salt. The 2025 releases of Big Salt and PNK Salt became available on March 1, with additional wines set for release later this year.