Jim Bernau: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Jim Bernau of Willamette Valley Vineyards. In this interview, Jim speaks about his introduction to wine and his journey through the industry. 

Jim starts the interview by diving into his childhood introduction to wine, which spurred him and his brother to steal and experiment with their mother’s frozen grape concord concentrate. 

Jim also talks about his educational journey, where he went everywhere from Oxford to Willamette University. He then shares that after college he was introduced to wine professionally through legislation. 

Later in the interview, Jim dives into the creation of Willamette Valley Vineyards. He leaves us with some advice about entering the wine industry and his hopes for the future. 

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Domaine Willamette in Dayton on August 18, 2023.

What is The Oregon Wine History Archive Podcast?

The Oregon Wine History Archive at Linfield University was created to collect, preserve, share, and continue the narrative of Oregon wine.

The growth of the Oregon wine industry extends from the farmers and winemakers to the marketers, scientists, innovators, and dreamers of the enterprise — all of whom are vital to the industry’s success. It is our aim to link the past, present, and future of the industry in hopes of sharing the story of Oregon wine.

Some oral history interviews are conducted on site and may contain background noise from nature, winery, or tasting room operations.