01/20/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a great man: Warren Dayle “Nick” Nicholas, owner of Nicholas Estate Vineyard and founder of Anam Cara Cellars.
In 2001, Nick and his wife Sheila purchased a 70-acre run down walnut, plum and filbert orchard in the Chehalem Mountains above Newberg, Oregon, and planted a 35-acre vineyard which became his passion. Nick spent countless hours on the tractor in tune with the vines, tilling, mowing ... and thinking. He loved to share the fruit of his labors, hosting Wine Club events, tastings, wine dinners, travelling across the US and to export markets spreading the word about Oregon wines.
While being a vintner was Nick’s final profession (and favorite), he came to wine through earlier careers with dairy cows, real estate and medical equipment sales, and owning pizza parlors in the Napa Valley where he acquired an enviable wine cellar. He travelled extensively across Europe and South Africa, meeting Sheila in London in 1979.
In July, 2025, he realized a lifelong dream of walking his daughter, Heather, down the aisle albeit on a fractured ankle.
Nick passed peacefully after a long illness with his family by his side.
He will be remembered for his direct and honest personality, deep and enduring love for his family, his story telling, tenacity and for never taking the easy route in life.
Celebrations of Life will be held in his birth city of Lodi, California on February 20, as well as the Willamette Valley at a later date.
Details will be posted on anamcaracellars.com where we invite you to read a longer account of his unique story.
Anam Cara: Soul Friend
