The Oregon Wine History Archive Podcast

This interview is with Clay Wesson of Willamette Valley Vineyards. In this interview, Clay speaks about his education and early work in horticulture, and his eventual transition into viticulture specifically. His work led him into biodynamics and stewardship of the land.

He talks about bringing that skillset to Willamette Valley Vineyards' new project Domaine Willamette, and working to transition the vineyard on site toward biodynamic farming while thinking about how to scale that work as well. He also talks about what he's seen in the Oregon wine industry and about the future of sustainability and biodynamics.

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

Show Notes

This interview is with Clay Wesson of Willamette Valley Vineyards. In this interview, Clay speaks about his education and early work in horticulture, and his eventual transition into viticulture specifically. His work led him into biodynamics and stewardship of the land. He talks about bringing that skillset to Willamette Valley Vineyards' new project Domaine Willamette, and working to transition the vineyard on site toward biodynamic farming while thinking about how to scale that work as well. He also talks about what he's seen in the Oregon wine industry and about the future of sustainability and biodynamics. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Domaine Willamette in Dayton on January 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.