This interview is with Taralyn and Cyler Varnum, with Varnum Vineyards.
Taralyn and Cyler talk about their early lives and the paths that led them into wine, including Cyler’s background in agriculture, studying abroad, and working in tasting rooms, as well as Taralyn’s journey as a chemist and longtime teacher before transitioning into the wine industry full time.
Next, they discuss their journey as a couple, moving across different states, starting a family, and balancing work, education and winemaking before eventually settling in Oregon and purchasing their vineyard property.
Taralyn and Cyler talk about building Varnum Vineyards, opening their tasting room, experimenting with non-alcoholic wine, creating family-friendly products, and their goals for the future of the winery.
This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Varnum Vineyards in Amity on January 12, 2026.
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.