Meet David and Lois Cho of CHO Wines
CHO Wines is the creation of a dynamic duo, Dave and Lois Cho, who are reshaping the winemaking landscape in Oregon. The couple’s story began in the most unexpected of ways, weaving together their passions for music, community, and the fine art of winemaking. Their journey, filled with determination, creativity, and innovation, is one of breaking barriers and embracing authenticity—qualities that are evident in every bottle they produce.
Meet Dave Cho: Oregon’s First Korean-American Winemaker
Dave Cho’s journey into the world of winemaking is a testament to the power of passion and persistence. Born in South Korea and immigrating to Canada at a young age, Dave grew up in a restaurant family as the oldest of two sons. His father passed away shortly after their arrival in Canada, leaving his mother to run the business with the help of her sons. This experience taught Dave the importance of food and drink, not only as their family’s livelihood but as a way to cherish relationships formed around the table.
While studying Theology in seminary school in California, Dave was introduced to craft brewing by a neighbor over a game of Catan. He dabbled in music, releasing his own album and busking on the streets of Santa Monica. It wasn’t until he started playing gigs at local wineries in Temecula, CA, that he began to appreciate the complexity and creativity that goes into winemaking. After getting a job as a winery lab tech, a trip to Napa sparked his decision to fully transition into winemaking.
In 2014, Dave moved his young family to Oregon to pursue a degree in enology and viticulture at Oregon State University. During his studies, their family grew by three children. He gained hands-on experience working at Stoller Family Estate, Argyle Winery, and Duck Pond Cellars, where he honed his craft and developed a passion for sparkling wines. Throughout these years, Dave spent countless hours around the table with neighbors, college friends, and industry colleagues, sharing his dream of producing his own wine.
Dave’s travels also deeply influenced his approach to winemaking. Trips to France, Italy, Spain, and Southeast Asia solidified his belief that community can be created anywhere, especially around the table. One of his most memorable experiences was a visit to Taizé, a monastic community in Burgundy, where he learned to appreciate the simplicity of sharing a humble meal and a bottle of table wine with strangers. The message was clear—food and wine have the power to bring people together, regardless of background or circumstance.
In 2020, Dave made the bold decision to create his own label, CHO Wines. As the first Korean-American winemaker in Oregon, he brings a unique perspective to the local wine scene. His winemaking style is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and a deep respect for the land. CHO Wines focuses on small-production, high-quality wines that showcase the nuanced and delicate flavors of Oregon’s terroir. Dave’s passion for sparkling wine, in particular, shines through, with his belief that Oregon can produce world-class sparkling wines that pair beautifully with Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine and sushi.
Meet Lois Cho: CEO and Advocate for AAPI Representation
Lois Cho’s role as the CEO of CHO Wines is integral to the success of the brand. A former family nurse practitioner, Lois made the decision to leave her healthcare career behind to fully commit to the winery in 2022. She transitioned into the role of CEO, managing not only the business side of things but also overseeing the development of CHO Wines’ tasting room and production facility, as well as the planting of their vineyard. Despite the demanding nature of running a winery and raising a young family, Lois remains an unwavering supporter of her husband, Dave, and their shared vision.
In addition to her work with CHO Wines, Lois is a vocal advocate for the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community in the food and beverage industry. She founded Oregon AAPI Food and Wine, a nonprofit organization dedicated to highlighting the representation of AAPI individuals in the wine world. Lois is also a board member of Women in Wine Oregon, where she works to support and uplift women in the industry.
A Partnership Built on Passion and Community
The story of CHO Wines is one of partnership, passion, and persistence. Dave and Lois Cho’s commitment to sustainable farming, innovative winemaking, and their community is reflected not only in their wines but also in the way they run their business. Together, they have created a space where authenticity and creativity thrive, and where breaking stereotypes in the wine industry is not just a goal but a way of life.
Their journey is a reminder that success is often born out of following one’s passions and embracing the unknown. The Chos’ story is an inspiring example of how grit, positivity, and a willingness to take risks can lead to the creation of something truly special. With each bottle of CHO Wines, Dave and Lois continue to shape the future of Oregon’s wine scene while also creating a legacy of representation and inclusivity that extends beyond the bottle.
As they continue to grow and evolve, CHO Wines stands as a beacon of possibility for anyone looking to break into the world of winemaking, regardless of background or experience. For Dave and Lois, winemaking is not just about producing great wine—it’s about building a community, breaking down barriers, and creating a space where people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate great wine and great company. They hope that their wines will serve as a means to celebrate, bridge gaps, and foster community—becoming a part of the story at your table.
