Podcasts about Willamette Valley

Host Zach Urness breaks down how the government shutdown is impacting Oregon's public lands and three other news stories focusing on wildfires, salmon and Douglas fir trees. Urness talks about the status of national parks and monuments such as Crater Lake and the Painted Hills during the closure, before talking about how bad the 2025 wildfire season was compared to recent years. Finally, he talks about the rebound of coho salmon on the Oregon Coast and the historic "dieback" of Oregon's Douglas fir trees in southwest Oregon and in the Willamette Valley.

Our focus this week will be on the highlights, including vacancy and rent trends, new construction activity, and investor insights across the Portland metro, Willamette Valley , and Southwest Washington markets. 

Join Annie and Jimena as they dive into the beauty and craft of Willamette Valley wines with Sara Nkemontoh, a wine director located in Oregon. From the region's signature Pinot Noir to the stories behind some of the local vineyards, the Whine Mamas explore what makes this corner of Oregon so special. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just love discovering new places, this episode will leave you ready to sip and savor. Wine of the Week: Resonance Pinot Noir

Subscribe to the Willamette Block Party on Youtube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts---Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Willamette Block Party! Join your hosts Ray White, Allie Saunders, and Xavier “xInYaFaceDotCom” Hudson as they kick off their new podcast dedicated to highlighting "ALL THINGS BLACK within the Willamette Valley." From first impressions of Oregon to deep reflections on cultural connection, belonging, and goals for the future, this conversation sets the tone for what the Block Party is all about: joy, honesty, and community-building in the place we call home.Key Discussion Points & Timestamps:● [00:00]: [Welcome, Shenanigans & Introductions]● [02:07]: [Came From Other Locales to Become Locals]● [13:27]: [Creating Black Space in the Valley]● [22:42]: [“Big Acre Energy” – Black Land Ownership Goals]● [26:59]: [Final Words & Sign-off]Connect with Us:● Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP!○ @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom● We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you're interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com.● Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below.○ Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/○ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/○ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/Additional Resources:● Episode Transcript - bit.ly/4gdjsVW● For the Locals:○ BIPOCs Living in Salem (BLIS) – https://www.instagram.com/blisalem/○ The Sanctuary | Christian Community – https://www.instagram.com/thesanctuarypnw/○ Becka Makes Buttons – https://beckamakesbuttons.com/○ Radness Ensues – https://www.radnessensues.org/○ Janique Crenshaw – https://www.janiquecrenshaw.com/○ Hunters of Color – https://huntersofcolor-community.org/Sponsorship:If you're interested in becoming a sponsor for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.Original Music:● Created by Raymond D. White | All Rights ReservedProduction:● Whole Lotta Enterprises, LLC© 2025 | Willamette Block Party | All Rights Reserved

Send us a textEver wondered if a $12.99 bottle could deliver the experience of a premium regional wine? Our latest deep dive proves that exceptional wine doesn't always come with an exceptional price tag.The Willamette Valley has earned its reputation as one of the world's finest Pinot Noir regions, with bottles typically starting at $25 and quickly climbing past $40. That's what makes Aldi's Specially Selected Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2024 such a fascinating discovery. At just $12.99, this wine challenges everything we assume about price and quality in the wine world.Bottled by Precept Wine (the largest independently owned wine company in the Northwest), this Pinot showcases the classic transparency and garnet hue that aficionados look for. But it's the complexity that truly surprises - dried leaves, herbal notes, pencil shavings, black cherry, and cranberry create that quintessential Pinot Noir profile that makes you pause between sips. The mouthfeel balances smoothness with just enough spicy edge to keep things interesting. As one well-regarded online review site noted with its 94-point score: "Buy it, that's all there is to it."The current wine industry downturn (with sales down roughly 10%) has created a silver lining for consumers. Excess inventory and production means premium wines are finding their way to market under store labels at fraction of typical costs. For Pinot lovers or anyone curious about what makes Willamette Valley special, this bottle offers an authentic experience without the premium price tag. It's not "dumbed down" for mass appeal - it's a genuine example of what makes Oregon Pinot Noir special. Try it with your next meal or simply on its own, and discover what happens when great wine regions meet great value. Have you found any exceptional wine bargains lately? We'd love to hear about your discoveries!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Explore the final leg of one of America's most iconic journeys, the Oregon Trail, through the lens of RV travel in the Pacific Northwest. This episode focuses on the last stretch of the trail, where pioneers faced some of their greatest challenges before reaching the promise of the Willamette Valley. Traveling by RV offers a powerful way to connect with the landscape and history, tracing wagon ruts through Eastern Oregon and visiting sites that still echo with the stories of grit, hope, and perseverance.We'll take you to key stops from Lolo Pass in Idaho to the the lush lands surrounding the Columbia River that marked the final miles for thousands of people. Along the way, you'll get practical tips for RV camping, suggestions for historical side trips, and insight into the legacy that shaped the Pacific Northwest.This episode is all about slowing down, soaking in the land, and reflecting on the journey west, not just of the pioneers, but your own. Discover how the Oregon Trail lives on, not just in textbooks, but in the places you can still visit, explore, and experience by RV.Send us a textPlease follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media:InstagramFacebook

This week on Everything You Didn't Know About Herbalism, we are joined by three passion-driven land stewards who are dedicated to protecting and preserving the Mount Pisgah Arboretum in our hometown, Eugene, Oregon. As a 209-acre nature education facility nestled on the traditional homelands of the Kalapuya people, Mount Pisgah Arboretum has been offering invaluable environmental education to the Eugene community since 1973. Tune in with Ilana Jakubowski, Kevin House, and Patrick Wegner to explore: Origin story of Mount Pisgah Arboretum Annual Wildflower Festival and (upcoming!) Mushroom Festival Mt. Pisgah's environmental education field trips, workshops, and community initiatives How to create a space where nature is accessible to everyone Behind the scenes work to uphold a community-shared land Learn more about Mount Pisgah Arboretum's staff below! ⬇️

This week on Wine Crush Podcast, we're spotlighting two very different yet equally captivating Oregon wine stories—Appassionata and Dagger Daisy Wine.Founded with a reverence for patience and craftsmanship, Appassionata is dedicated to the art of aging Pinot Noir and Riesling. With their stunning estate vineyard and elegant tasting room, they embody old-world sophistication rooted in Oregon soil—crafting wines meant to evolve, surprise, and delight over time.In contrast, Dagger Daisy bursts onto the scene with fresh energy and unbridled passion. Their focus is on creating vibrant, approachable, and eminently drinkable wines that capture the joy of sharing a bottle with friends. Bold, lively, and full of heart, they're quickly making their mark on the Willamette Valley.In this episode, we explore the stories, philosophies, and winemaking journeys behind both brands—one steeped in tradition and patience, the other thriving on innovation and energy. Together, they showcase the incredible range of Oregon's wine community.

This week on Wine Crush Podcast, we're spotlighting two very different yet equally captivating Oregon wine stories—Appassionata and Dagger Daisy Wine.Founded with a reverence for patience and craftsmanship, Appassionata is dedicated to the art of aging Pinot Noir and Riesling. With their stunning estate vineyard and elegant tasting room, they embody old-world sophistication rooted in Oregon soil—crafting wines meant to evolve, surprise, and delight over time.In contrast, Dagger Daisy bursts onto the scene with fresh energy and unbridled passion. Their focus is on creating vibrant, approachable, and eminently drinkable wines that capture the joy of sharing a bottle with friends. Bold, lively, and full of heart, they're quickly making their mark on the Willamette Valley.In this episode, we explore the stories, philosophies, and winemaking journeys behind both brands—one steeped in tradition and patience, the other thriving on innovation and energy. Together, they showcase the incredible range of Oregon's wine community.

This interview is with Blair and L.J. Nicholas of LucidWild Estate. In this interview, Blair and L.J. talk about their life in California before wine and how they ended up owning a vineyard in Dundee.Before wine, L.J. worked in the fitness industry in operations and marketing, and Blair worked as a security fraud lawyer. They started becoming interested in wine as an alternative to other alcohols, and soon began traveling internationally to taste and learn more.After starting a backyard vineyard in San Diego, Blair and L.J. came to IPNC to experience the Willamette Valley. They quickly fell in love with the area and decided to invest in a vineyard.Later in the interview, Blair and L.J. talk about the process of taking over what is now the LucidWild Estate, what went into designing the new tasting room and all its unique spaces, and what they hope guests take away from their experience.This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at LucidWild in Dundee on August 19, 2025.

It’s Wine Wednesday on The Wake Up Call with Scotch, Tank, and Mandy — proudly sponsored by Bottle Barn Liquors, with three convenient Fargo locations!

Brenda Smola-Foti and Frank Foti are co-founders of The Ground in Willamette Valley, Oregon. The Ground is a place that almost defies definition – it is a regenerative agriculture farm, but also includes an Inn and Farmhouse where guests can stay, a restaurant, and a farm store.  Frank and Brenda host workshops, nature tours, group retreats, guided meditations and a lot more. The Ground may be different things for different people, but it is tied together by a cohesive set of values that are important to Brenda and Frank, including connection, humility and caring for our planet.  (1:06) – What was Brenda's upbringing like?(3:43) – What drove Brenda to go from fashion to farming?(5:03) – How did Frank find his way into the family business?(9:34) – What experiences led to Frank joining The Ground?(11:46) – Why is the theme of connection important to Frank?(12:30) – What were some of the early issues Brenda and Frank faced while establishing The Ground?(15:50) – What exactly is The Ground?(16:45) – How do all the facets of The Ground work together?(19:26) – How do Brenda and Frank divide and tackle their tasks?(21:54) – What is Brenda's “why”?(22:48) – What is Frank's “why”?(24:47) – How are Brenda and Frank thinking about succession? © 2025 Northern Trust Corporation. Head Office: 50 South La Salle Street, Chicago, IL 60603. Incorporated with limited liability in the U.S. Member FDIC.

On Wednesday, the Oregon Department of Forestry announced that the emerald ash borer has now been found in the Hazelwood neighborhood in East Portland and five other new sites in the north Willamette Valley. In addition to Portland, the highly invasive and destructive beetle has now been found near other urban areas in the region, including Beaverton, Banks and Oregon City. The Oregon Department of Agriculture said that the discovery of EAB in Portland has now put all of Multnomah County into the EAB quarantine zone, which also includes Washington, Yamhill, Marion and Clackamas counties.     Native to Asia, EAB was first detected in Oregon in 2022 at an elementary school in Forest Grove. Considered to be the most destructive forest pest in North America, EAB has killed over 100 million ash trees nationwide since its arrival in the U.S. more than 20 years ago.  Joining us to discuss the spread of EAB and how the public can help efforts to contain it are Cody Holthouse, manager of ODA’s  Insect Pest Prevention and Management Program and City of Portland Forester Jenn Cairo.

We're back with Season 6 of The Wine & Chisme Podcast! To kick things off, I'm joined by Sofia, the passionate Latina vintner behind Cramoisi Vineyard, located in Oregon's stunning Willamette Valley. In this episode, Sofia shares her journey from growing up in Chile surrounded by wine culture to becoming a vineyard owner just outside of Portland, OR. We talk about the challenges and triumphs of carving out space as a Latina in the wine industry, what makes Oregon Pinot Noir so special, and the deep connection between heritage, passion, and the land. What you'll hear in this episode: Sofia's journey from Chile to Oregon's wine country How Cramoisi Vineyard came to life and its focus on Pinot Noir The realities of being a Latina vintner in a traditionally Eurocentric industry Why storytelling and heritage matter in wine Advice for anyone dreaming of stepping into the wine world Grab a glass of your favorite vino and join us for this inspiring Season 6 premiere!

Tonight, we are blind-tasting three Pinot Noir wines. All three wines are from the United States, but are priced very differently.Pinot Noir is a medium-bodied, high-acid, fruit-forward wine.Pinot Noir from Oregon is typically more in the Burgundian Style. California Pinot characteristically has a little greater ripeness and spice.Here are our three wines for tonight.Tonight, we are enjoying:2021 Firesteed Pinot Noir. This wine comes from Oregon and was purchased at Costco for $9.99, but I see it online for closer to $13. Reverse Wine Snob says it has aromas of black cherry, baking spice, touches of cranberry. The grapes are sourced from around the state of Oregon. Aging took place in a combination of small French oak barrels and larger stainless-steel tanks. Approximately 15% new French oak. The winemaker says it has red fruits, earthy notes, and toast. Silky tannins complement the long lingering finish of spice, vanilla, and French oak. 2022 Stoller Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley, Oregon. This was purchased from Wall to Wall Wine for $23.99. 3.59 pH. No more than 15% in oak. This wine gets an 89 rating from the Wine Enthusiast. It says a dusty black cherry aroma dominates faint traces of earthy oregano and citrus. Invigorating acidity overshadows silky tannins. Blackberry and walnut flavors joined by a note of dark chocolate, green tea and lemon. 90 from Vinous.2022 Three Sticks Pinot Noir. I purchased this from the winery for $75. All of the wine goes through malolactic fermentation and is aged in 100% French oak (44% new) for 15 months. The wine has a pH of 3.4.We both gave all three wines a thumbs up. Denise gave the Three Sticks Pinot Noir a 5 rating, but still enjoyed the other two. I actually liked the Stoller the best, but gave a 4 rating to both the Stoller and the Three Sticks. It really depends on your preference in wine. The Three Sticks is much heavier oaked, spicy, and with darker fruit flavors. The Stoller is the complete opposite being very subdued and very balanced. Next week, we will be exploring more hybrid wines.

With opportunities ranging from campground hosting to hands-on maintenance roles, this is a great way to enjoy Oregon's natural beauty while giving back your time to support the USACE mission.

Kelsey Glasser got bit by the acting bug as a child. The Willamette Valley native headed to NYU for college, then to Hollywood to pursue a career in film and TV. To make ends meet, she started working in restaurants and found herself at José Andrés' Bazaar. As she learned about winemakers and their stories, she found herself falling in love with the world of wine. In time, she became a sommelier and headed to Portland, Oregon, to open a wine shop with her then-partner. That led to the 2018 opening of Arden, a full-service restaurant that tested her mettle as a small business owner and restaurateur. Today, Arden is known for its seasonal menu, smart wine list, and welcoming vibes. Today, Kelsey is a leader in Portland's vibrant dining scene, host of the Her Way podcast, and creator of the Seven Day Sommelier virtual classes. She's also busy developing a wine and travel TV show. She joins host Kerry Diamond to talk about the twists and turns of her career, the lessons she's learned in hospitality, and why wine is her favorite story to tell.Thank you to The Visa Dining Collection by OpenTable x Visa for their support. Tickets for Jubilee L.A.Subscribe to Cherry Bombe's print magazineFollow Kerry on InstagramPast episodes and transcripts

When the mercury dropped below 20 degrees for six weeks, a six-inch layer of ice formed on many Willamette Valley lakes — and locals took up ice skating. And five years earlier, it got so cold, a newly built steamship actually cracked in half. (Willamette Valley; 1940s) (For text and pictures, see https://offbeatoregon.com/1705c.ice-skating-cottage-grove-lake-444.html)

Dragon Song Farm is located in Oregon's Willamette Valley outside Eugene. Founder Jenny Jonak's mission is to bring a sense of floral magic to her customers and community while promoting sustainable, earth-friendly growing practices. By using regenerative farming techniques, Dragon Song ensures that their flowers are grown in harmony with nature, restoring and enriching the […] The post Episode 729: Jenny Jonak of Dragon Song Farm on building community, enriching a family's lifestyle, and encouraging creative expression through flower farming appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we sit down with Adam and Anna Campbell of Elk Cove Vineyards—two voices carrying forward one of Oregon's most iconic wine legacies. They share the remarkable story of their parents' vision, the early struggles of establishing a vineyard in the Willamette Valley, and the transformation of Elk Cove into one of the state's most respected wineries.From the pioneering days of Oregon wine to the artistry and innovation that define Elk Cove today, this is a conversation about perseverance, family, and a deep love for the land.Grab your favorite glass, press play, and join us as we celebrate the legends of Oregon wine.

Winemaker Michael Browne is our guest on California Wine Country with Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger. Daedalus Howell is sitting in for Steve Jaxon today. Michael has brought a few wines today. The first pour is a 2020 Santa Rita Hills, made under his Cirq label. It his is focus on Russian River. His other brand, Chev, focuses on all the west coast, from Oregon to Central California. The Santa Rita Hills is interesting to him because “it really moves in your mouth…it has a lot of movement. … It has massive presence. If you let it sit on your palette just a bit, you can kind of see that.” It is not heavy but it has presence. It has what he calls intense elegance. Michael Browne wrote a book called Pinot Rocks, subtitled A Journey Through Intense Elegance. He describes good wine as a piece of music, with high notes, middle notes and low notes. Daedalus calls it, “a wine that went to charm school.” The Song and the Instruments The “song” has been written in the vineyard and the barrels are the “instruments” that will play it. Dan Berger has one last bottle of a 2005 Santa Rita Pinot Noir that is one of the best he has ever tasted. California Wine Country is brought to you by Rodney Strong Vineyards and Davis Bynum Wines. Next to be tasted is under the Chev label, which is Russian River, heart and soul. It's a wine to be aged, or decanted at least. Their 2013s, '14s and '15s are in great shape right now. In the 1990s there was an explosion of Pinot Noir producers in California and also Willamette Valley in Oregon. When Kosta Browne started, they were the second wave, doing unique things with Pinot Noir. He tasted a “substantial” Pinot Noir from Williams-Selyem and asked winemaker Burt Williams for advice on how to achieve that result. He learned how to time his harvest to get exactly that result. They are also tasting a Santa Lucia Highlands wine. Michael Browne talks about making wine with “the Garys,” who are growers Gary Pisoni and Gary Franscioni. Gary Pisoni runs Pisoni Family Vineyards while Gary and Rosella Franscioni run Gary's Vineyard and ROAR Wines. Both of them are located in the Santa Lucia Highlands. “They are the best growers that I know… They are family to me, big time.”

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we sit down with Adam and Anna Campbell of Elk Cove Vineyards—two voices carrying forward one of Oregon's most iconic wine legacies. They share the remarkable story of their parents' vision, the early struggles of establishing a vineyard in the Willamette Valley, and the transformation of Elk Cove into one of the state's most respected wineries.From the pioneering days of Oregon wine to the artistry and innovation that define Elk Cove today, this is a conversation about perseverance, family, and a deep love for the land.Grab your favorite glass, press play, and join us as we celebrate the legends of Oregon wine.

Join Adv. Somm David Reuss as he interviews Oregon GM Eugenia Keegan on Oregon's newest item: Unsanctioned Pinot Gris.

In this episode of Gun Talk Hunt, KJ sits down with Gary Killingsworth—Gun Talk's own draw-tag lottery champ—who managed to land not one, not two, but THREE highly sought-after hunting tags in a single year.From Oregon's coveted Mount Emily elk unit to Central Oregon blacktail deer and Willamette Valley hunts, Gary shares how he built his strategy, what gear he's relying on, and tips for maximizing your draw odds. Whether you're chasing over-the-counter opportunities or managing your preference points portfolio, this is a must-watch for hunters serious about next season's draw.This Gun Talk Hunt is brought to you by Savage Arms, Remington Ammunition, SnapSafe, Timney Triggers, and First Person Defender.Be sure to check out the Gun Talk / Ammunition Depot Collab page for great deals:ammunitiondepot.com/guntalkGet 5% off any order at Optics Planet with code GUNTALK.Check out the NEW First Person Defender YouTube channel HERE.About Gun Talk HuntGun Talk Media's Gun Talk Hunt, with Kevin “KJ” Jarnagin, pairs decades of experience with today's latest tools and technology to help you succeed in the field. Whether it runs or flies - no matter what game you pursue - Gun Talk Hunt is a multi-platform podcast that gives today's hunters a voice in the digital world.For more content, subscribe to Gun Talk at guntalktv.com, on Gun Talk's Roku, Apple TV, iOS app, Android app, or find Gun Talk on YouTube, Rumble, Facebook, Instagram, X and guntalk.com. Catch First Person Defender on the new Official FPD YouTube channel. Listen to all Gun Talk Podcasts with Spreaker, iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you find podcasts.Copyright ©2025 Freefire Media, LLCGun Talk Hunt 08.02.25Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gun-talk--6185159/support.

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Jenny Jonak of Dragon Song Farm in Oregon's Willamette Valley to explore how one flower farmer is blending sustainable flower farming, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and policy advocacy to create real impact.Jenny shares how she grew her CSA flower farm from a few bouquets for friends into a thriving market business—and why she now champions water rights reform and land access for small farmers. We also dive into her innovative pressed flower jewelry, neurodivergent-friendly farm systems, and real-world tips for succeeding at farmers markets.Whether you're a flower farmer, backyard grower, or passionate advocate for local agriculture, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and heartfelt perspective.What You'll Learn: How Jenny scaled Dragon Song Farm from a backyard garden to a full-time CSA and market farm Her journey as a neurodivergent farmer and systems that support her success Tips for creating high-impact farmers market bouquets (and maximizing cooler space!) The surprising legal hurdles small farms face around water rights in Oregon How pressed flower jewelry became a profitable and creative side of her farm businessResources & Links Mentioned: Visit Jenny's website: dragonsongfarm.com Follow Jenny on Instagram Learn more about the August Press for pressed flowers: https://www.theaugustpress.com/ Explore Friends of Family Farmers – Oregon-based advocacy and resources: https://friendsoffamilyfarmers.org/ Connect with NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service): https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/ Learn about ASCFG – Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers: https://www.ascfg.org/Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/08/01/ep-65-how-jenny-jonak-of-dragon-song-farm-is-growing-more-than-just-flowers/

It's 1848, and amid the towering firs and scorched stumps of Oregon's Willamette Valley, a revolution in American agriculture quietly takes root. In this third installment of our epic Lewelling saga, John and Patrick trace the extraordinary efforts of Henderson Lewelling as he establishes one of the Pacific Northwest's first grafted fruit orchards - alongside his ambitious partner William Meek.As they plant the seeds of what would become a booming nursery industry, the nurserymen face a harsh frontier, personal loss, and complex moral questions - navigating everything from spiritual awakenings to land disputes with the U.S. government. Along the way, they're joined by Henderson's brothers, John and Seth, fresh from the gold fields of California and ready to graft their own legacy into Oregon soil.Join John and Patrick as they explore scorched forests, fruit grafting experiments, metaphysical revelations, and the bittersweet human stories at the heart of America's horticultural westward expansion. This is not just the tale of an orchard - it's the story of how ambition, adversity, and apples helped shape the American West.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review -----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Step into history - literally! Now is your chance to own a pair of The History of Fresh Produce sneakers. Fill out the form here and get ready to walk through the past in style.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com

This interview is with Dan Diephouse and Jeanne Feldkamp of Corollary Wines. We last spoke with Dan and Jeanne during the summer of 2020 after they had just released their brand, Corollary. In this interview, they briefly recap how they got into wine and started the brand, then they talk about what they have been up to since 2020.After initially releasing their wines into the world, they focused on building a wine club starting with family and friends. They also showcased their wines at Winter's Hill, which doubles as their production space, and focused on educating guests about the importance of sparkling wine in the Willamette Valley.The biggest change since our first interview was the purchase of the new vineyard site in Amity, recommended to them by Jessica Cortell. Originally a logging site, they bought it in 2022 and started prepping it for planting. They speak about the need for both a vineyard and a tasting room on the property, as well as the permaculture and sustainability initiatives they have been working towards.Looking ahead to the end of July, they speak about their work in helping to start Method Oregon, an event focusing on Willamette Valley traditional method sparkling wines. They collaborated with Andy Lytle to create the event and Jim Bernau to host the event. They stress the significance of having both an educational component as well as the more traditional grand tasting, showcasing 22 producers and helping participants to view the Willamette Valley as a premier destination for sparkling wines.This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Corollary Wines in Amity on July 7, 2025.

What happens when a powerhouse trial lawyer and his equally driven wife trade suits and city life for vines and vision in Oregon's Willamette Valley? You get LucidWild — a boutique winery rooted in purpose, passion, and one hell of a view.In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Blair and LJ Nicholas, the couple behind LucidWild, to talk about their incredible journey from the courtroom and corporate world to crafting wine with soul and intention. This isn't a “retirement” story — it's a second chapter fueled by grit, heart, and a relentless desire to create something lasting from the land.We kick things off with a blind tasting (spoiler: it's a 2016 Chardonnay from their winemaker, the iconic Isabelle Meunier), and then get into the backstory of how LucidWild came to be. From their early inspiration on a trip to Tuscany to planting 300 vines in their backyard, Blair and LJ share how the spark of curiosity turned into a full-blown calling.You'll hear how they fell in love with Oregon wine after hearing a Burgundian winemaker tell them, “This is not about the winemaker. This is about the land.” That philosophy stuck. It's the soul of LucidWild, where every decision — from native ferments to the intentional layout of their immersive, multi-room tasting experience — honors the land and the stories it tells.LJ takes us behind the design of Lucid Wild's stunning new tasting space, from the Sky Room to the speakeasy hidden in plain sight. Her approach? Experiential and emotional design that invites guests to feel like they're walking into a friend's home — not a pretentious wine fortress. You'll hear about their “ideal lab” for business meetings, a game room with billiards and bocce, and how the bathrooms (yes, the bathrooms) became an unlikely Instagram hotspot thanks to the label artwork proudly displayed inside.Blair gets real about why he left law — not to escape, but to build something with meaning. He shares how LucidWild's wine lineup reflects different expressions of their estate vineyard. Every bottle is made from 100% estate fruit, and they even use a golf cart to take guests right to the vines where the wine comes from. It's about connection to the land, to each other, and to the stories shared over a great glass of wine.We talk about their exciting new sparkling wine collaboration made by Isabelle Meunier and her husband, acclaimed sparkling winemaker Andrew Davis. It's their first sparkling release and a labor of love that brought both families together around the table (literally) to taste through styles and build something uniquely Oregon.Throughout the interview, we dig into what makes Oregon wine, and Willamette Valley in particular, so special right now. From world-class Pinot and Chardonnay to a rising sparkling scene, Blair and LJ are bullish on the valley's future and grateful to be part of a region where intention still matters more than mass production.We also lighten things up with a round of rapid-fire questions. LJ wants the superpower to duplicate herself (because who doesn't?), Blair wants to solve homelessness, and they both agree that wine is best enjoyed with good people, good music, and a whole lot of heart.Lucid Wild isn't just a winery. It's a philosophy, a commitment to making beautiful wines that reflect place, people, and purpose. Whether you're a wine lover, a design nerd, or someone dreaming of your own next chapter, this episode is full of inspiration, real talk, and a little sparkle (literally and figuratively).

This interview is with Lukas Papagiannis of BHN. In this interview, Lukas talks about his early involvement with wine and growing up in Australia. Lukas dives into his childhood and how he decided to pursue wine while at University in Australia. He shares about his family's connection to having a vineyard and how this connection and the memories associated with family, vineyards, and wine likely influenced him. Later in the interview he talks about the different places he has worked and traveled to. He then dives into how he found himself working a harvest in the Willamette Valley and what made him decide to stay. He then goes on to talk about the current project he is working on with Marco Prete. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Wines of Kings in Portland on June 27, 2025.

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Jay Boberg—visionary music entrepreneur and co-founder of Nicolas J Winery—for a wide-ranging, personal conversation that bridges the worlds of music, wine, and following your passions. From co-founding the legendary IRS Records at just 21, to working with icons like R.E.M., the Go-Go's, and the Police, Jay shares stories of the early days of MTV, concert promotion at UCLA, and his unique insider perspective on how great bands (and wines) are discovered.Jay opens up about his California roots, his lifelong love affair with wine, and the surprising parallels between crafting albums and crafting Pinot Noir in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Whether he's talking about meeting musical legends like Bob Marley or sharing wine with renowned Burgundian winemaker Jean Nicolas Méo, Jay's path is a testament to living a full life driven by curiosity and creativity. Tune in for a fascinating journey through music history, wine country, and what it means to truly follow your avocations—wherever they might lead.For more information about Nicolas-Jay Winery click the link!Follow Nicolas-Jay on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Conaway Fund. The Conaway Fund is a philanthropic initiative under The Prosperity Foundation that allows donors to contribute to a fund that supports various causes such as scholarships, nonprofit organizations, schools, and families facing financial challenges. Donors can recommend where the funds should be directed, providing a flexible way to make a positive impact in communities. The Conaway Fund embodies the spirit of giving and community support, aiming to create a lasting impact through strategic philanthropy.For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Mariah Johnston talk about the newest railbiking site in Oregon — this one within striking distance of the Willamette Valley. Santiam Excursion Trains is based in Lebanon and recently added a new railbike adventure in Sweet Home. It travels 6 miles on the old Sweet Home Branch line, where abandoned buildings and wildlife are plentiful. Mariah talks about the highlights of the trip, how to book a ride and the history of the rail line and railbiking in general, which has become increasingly popular across the state.

Miss us? We missed you too. Our extended absence is due to vacations and a fruitful journey Justin took to the Willamette Valley. He visited several different nurseries and garden centers that are our suppliers and or members of a consulting group that work to make each other better. In this episode, we chat about some of the surprises and lessons learned from that trip. Yes. There are robots. 

This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Kenny McMahon, Co-Founder & Winemaker, Arabilis, Willamette Valley, defining the term “Millerandage”.  Learn more by visiting arabiliswines.com

Send us a textDiscovering exceptional wine values is always exciting, especially when they come from unexpected places. The Sunshine Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir 2023 from the Columbia Valley of Oregon represents exactly this kind of delightful surprise - a $14.99 Trader Joe's exclusive that punches well above its weight class.What makes this Pinot truly special is its origin story. Unlike the typical Oregon Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, this single-vineyard wine hails from about 60 miles east of Portland where the Columbia Valley extends into Oregon. This distinctive microclimate boasts volcanic soils and approximately 300 days of sunshine annually - dramatically different conditions than you'd expect in typically rainy western Oregon. These unique growing conditions contribute to a Pinot Noir with remarkable character and complexity.The wine itself reveals classic translucent garnet coloration and that wonderfully funky, complex nose that Pinot enthusiasts crave. Unlike most value-priced Pinot Noir that aims for immediate approachability, Sunshine Mountain presents as more individual and complex. It starts somewhat tight, with sharp edges and spicy notes that might challenge your palate initially. But patience is rewarded - give it time to breathe, swirl your glass, and watch as beautiful fruit flavors emerge to balance those initial sharp notes. This evolution in the glass, typically found only in more expensive bottles, transforms it into something truly special.Produced by Precept Wine Company (through their Northwest Collective subsidiary), the largest independent wine producer in the Northwest, this bottle delivers what Trader Joe's suggests would normally compete with wines in the $20-30 range. Whether you're a casual wine drinker or a dedicated Pinot enthusiast, this bottle offers an opportunity to experience a distinctive expression of Oregon terroir at a fraction of the expected price. Give it the time it deserves to open up, and you'll discover why single-vineyard Pinot Noir from unique growing regions creates such passionate devotees.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

This episode of Wine Crush Podcast brings together two standout producers from Oregon's wine country: Amica Luna and Walnut Ridge Winery.First, we dive into the story behind Amica Luna, a winery built on creativity, heart, and a drive to make wine more approachable and intentional. Learn how this female-led label is breaking molds and creating wines that speak from the soul.Then we head to the hills of Junction City to visit Walnut Ridge Winery, an estate winery known for its breathtaking views, sustainable farming, and expressive wines that showcase the terroir of the southern Willamette Valley.With stories rooted in passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the land, this is an episode that captures the spirit of Oregon wine at its finest. Tune in for inspiration, laughter, and a whole lot of wine love.

This episode of Wine Crush Podcast brings together two standout producers from Oregon's wine country: Amica Luna and Walnut Ridge Winery.First, we dive into the story behind Amica Luna, a winery built on creativity, heart, and a drive to make wine more approachable and intentional. Learn how this female-led label is breaking molds and creating wines that speak from the soul.Then we head to the hills of Junction City to visit Walnut Ridge Winery, an estate winery known for its breathtaking views, sustainable farming, and expressive wines that showcase the terroir of the southern Willamette Valley.With stories rooted in passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the land, this is an episode that captures the spirit of Oregon wine at its finest. Tune in for inspiration, laughter, and a whole lot of wine love.

But in 1861, the worst floods in state history turned the Willamette Valley into one giant half-million-acre lake and swept several burgeoning towns away. And, despite our flood-control dams, someday it will probably happen again. (Willamette Valley; 1860s, 1890s) (For text and pictures, see https://offbeatoregon.com/1704c.willamette-floods-1894-1861-439.html)

Oregon's wine industry has been juggling several challenges recently: Sales are down, tariffs are looming, and immigration crackdowns have rattled vineyard workers — all while wildfire season creeps closer. And yet the Willamette Valley was just named the best wine destination in the world. Today, Portland Business Journal reporter Pete Danko helps us make sense of just what's going on with the Oregon wine industry right now. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 2nd episode: Women in Science Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tonight I will be speaking to Tom and Larry Baxter. Tom writes "I'm not sure if this would be interesting for you, and it's a second-hand account. My dad actually had the encounter and he passed away at age 84 a couple of years ago. I grew up in the Albany/Corvallis Oregon area, and as a child, my dad would tell us his story of his encounter which occurred in the Silverton Oregon area circa 1955/56 timeframe. His story was a brief one, but very descriptive (mostly what others on your show have described it) and it did impact his life and thoughts about the experience over his lifetime, and it made my brother and I very curious as we grew up in the Willamette Valley area. He saw the creature from his car in the Central Howell area at the intersection of Silverton and Howell Prairie roads. He was with his girlfriend at the time and they saw the creature emerge from the grass field alongside the intersection road at night. Anyway, if you are interested in this, I can tell the brief story of how he described it, etc." We will also be speaking to Larry Baxter regarding his book, Abandoned: The History and Horror of Port Chatham, Alaska. Port Chatham, Alaska was once a busy fishing village. By 1950, every single resident had left the town, leaving it abandoned. Over the years, legends told that the residents fled because they were being terrorized by a Bigfoot-like creature the local natives called Nantiinaq. Stories of mutilated bodies, missing hunters and strange, otherworldly creatures have long been associated with Port Chatham. Retired police investigator, Larry Baxter, delves into the real-life mystery of Port Chatham and chronicles his research for the truth into one of Alaska's most infamous legends.

What happens when a quiet camping trip turns into an all-night terror — with something pushing against your tent and shaking your car in the middle of nowhere? In this chilling and raw episode, we hear from an anonymous woman from Oregon's Willamette Valley, who shares her series of deeply personal encounters with Bigfoot — from silent stalking under a strawberry moon, to a tent being physically pushed in on, to something unseen rubbing against her vehicle all night long. With locations near Fish Lake, Clear Lake, and Luckiamute Landing State Natural Area, this episode includes harrowing details of wet popping sounds, thrown pebbles, and what it feels like to scream for help when no one believes you. You'll never look at the woods the same way again.

In this episode, we head to Oregon's Willamette Valley to meet Remy Drabkin — winemaker, civic leader, innovator, and unapologetic champion for LGBTQ+ visibility in wine. Remy is the force behind Remy Wines and the founder of Queer Wine Fest, and in this conversation, we explore how equity, intention, and creative problem-solving are not just buzzwords, but daily practices in her winery and beyond. We get into everything from the power of thoughtful hiring and building inclusive spaces (yes, even bathrooms!) to the unexpected intersection of winemaking and carbon-sequestering concrete. You'll hear how Remy uses wine as a platform for change — whether it's advocating for sustainable water solutions, supporting the ACLU through sparkling wine, or redefining what leadership in wine can look like. We also dig into the volcanic soils of the Dundee Hills, explore her love affair with the Italian grape Lagrein, and learn why she's aging wine in chestnut barrels — and what all of this has to do with place, purpose, and legacy. Whether you're here for the terroir or the truth bombs, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a reminder that wine, at its best, is about people, progress, and pouring with purpose. Episode Guide (Chapters) 2.45 - How intention shapes everything in the winery 5:38 – Creating Inclusive Wine Spaces 7:19 – The simplicity of building a thoughtful restroom and how this impacts the team 8.30 - Being thoughtful where job adverts go out 9.30 - Inventing Carbon Sequestration structural concrete called Solid Carbon 11.00 - Creative solutions to water challenges 13.24 - The importance of team meetings 17.20 - Creating Queer Wine Fest 22.30 - Winning the Governor's Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 26:34 – Why Willamette Valley Matters 26:15 – The Importance of Speaking Out. Finding your voice 28:50 – Locating Remy's Vineyards in the South Dundee Hills 28:56 – Soil and Terroir in the Red Hills (volcanic Jory soil) 29:49 – Describing the Local Climate and landscape in Willamette Valley 32:49 – Planting Italian variety Lagrein, what it offers, and why it works here 38:09 – Using Chestnut Barrels and extended aging 42.28: Black Heart Méthode Champenoise wine that supports ACLU 47:15 – What's next 50.00 - What is one action that someone running a small winery can take this year to create a more inclusive business model?  

Season 5: Episode 211As the ag tech sector matures, the industry is finally shifting its focus from flashy innovations to solving real problems on the ground. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak explores how the ag tech space is becoming more practical, profitable, and proven — especially when it comes to addressing the core issue that keeps most farmers up at night: labor. Joining the conversation from St. Louis, Missouri is Connie Bowen, Founding Partner of Farmhand Ventures, a venture firm focused on the future of work in U.S. agriculture.Connie shares how her background — spanning from engineering to hands-on farm work in Oregon's Willamette Valley — shaped her laser focus on labor as agriculture's most pressing challenge. She discusses how investor enthusiasm surged after high-profile acquisitions like Monsanto's purchase of Climate Corp, but notes the disconnect between capital flowing into ag tech and the slow pace of on-farm adoption. That's where Farmhand Ventures comes in — helping startups build with the farmer, not just for them.Throughout the conversation, Connie breaks down what makes an idea investable in the ag space, why founders must collaborate closely with growers and farmworkers from day one, and how including the voices of those doing the work creates smarter, more successful tools. She explains that while sustainability and climate concerns may attract outside capital, these investors often fail to understand the farmer's “hair-on-fire” problems — like labor shortages and razor-thin margins — which must be addressed first.Connie also talks about mistakes she sees ag tech startups making, including overpromising, chasing the wrong markets, or designing without true farm-level feedback. She emphasizes the importance of field trials, user input, and ongoing proof, comparing startup success to a sports team that has to earn its wins every season. Looking ahead, she predicts robotics will play an increasingly critical role in specialty crops and emphasizes the need for tech to help elevate workers into higher-value roles rather than displacing them.This episode highlights a turning point in ag tech — one where the best solutions come from close collaboration, practical thinking, and a deep respect for the realities of farm work.Learn more about Connie and Farm Ventures at https://www.farmhandventures.com/#agtech #smartfarming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!Send us a textAgritechnica in Hannover, Germany is held every other year, this year long-time tech writer & ag journalist Willie Vogt has put together for ag enthusiasts! The Agritechnica tour includes three days at the huge equipment and farm technology event. Learn more - https://agtoursusa.com/agritechnica.htmlSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Chef Allen Routt and his wife Jessica just celebrated their 20th year as proprietors of Newberg's The Painted Lady.  It's been a long, focused run to accomplish such a feat in this challenging restaurant world. Allen's interest in food started in Virginia as a boy, out in the yard and in the forest, right to his family kitchen.  His Mom and grandmas influenced his keen interest.  Staying at his grandmother's place in Florida, he found the diversity of ingredients intriguing.     His food career started in a Mexican restaurant, then a storied chef at a nearby Brazilian restaurant wrote him a recommendation to go to CIA, and from there the path was created.  Back in Florida, he met Jessica, and they made their way through various spots back to Oregon, where they saw a fantastic opportunity in the Willamette Valley.  This a fun episode that fills in some of the blanks on Allen's history and philosophies. https://www.thepaintedladyrestaurant.com/about @paintedladynewberg   Right at the Fork is supported by:  Zupan's Markets: www.Zupans.com  RingSide Steakhouse:  www.RingSideSteakhouse.com  Portland Food Adventures: www.PortlandFoodAdventures.com

This episode features a conversation with Scott Neal, the winemaker and owner at Coeur de Terre Vineyard in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Along with his wife Lisa, they crafted a humble 57 cases in their inaugural 2002 vintage but have grown to making over 6000 cases a year of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Syrah, and Sparkling wines from grapes grown on their estate vineyard in the McMinnville AVA. We talk a lot about geology in this episode because his wine style is focused on reflecting the time and place from which the grapes were grown by employing a gentle hand and allowing the grapes to express in their voice. In the vineyard, organic growing practices have been followed from the beginning in 1998 with a concentration on regenerative farming. The fun connection we discovered was that we both have roots in Minnesota - Scott grew up on a southern Minnesota farm from which he learned a strong work ethic as well as gained respect for the land and for the whims of Mother Nature. Scott, Lisa and their daughters, Abigail and Tallulah, live on the estate vineyard along with their dog Cici. You can visit www.cdtvineyard.com to learn about and order their wines, and you can follow @cdtvineyard on Instagram. Thank you to the Willamette Valley Wineries Association for connecting us when Pinot in the City came to Atlanta!Recorded June 9, 2025

IMAGINE YOU'RE A gold prospector from the Willamette Valley, on your way to the California gold fields in the first year of the 1848 gold rush. You're a little late to the party, and you've chosen to try to reach the gold fields in a somewhat unusual way: By going over the Coast Range to the beach, and traveling south along the coast. As you make your way southward by the great ocean, you reach a broad expanse of black sand. And when the sun hits it just right, you can see it's actually glittering … with tiny flakes and grains of gold. You're all alone on the beach. There aren't even any other footprints. Apparently nobody else was crazy enough to try to travel to the gold fields via Coos Bay. Everyone else in the area, such as there are, has decamped inland to the gold fields. It's just you, on the uninhabited edge of a continent, crunching a trillion dollars' worth of gold under your feet.... (Randolph, Coos County; 1840s, 1850s) (For text and pictures, see https://offbeatoregon.com/22-05.gold-on-the-beach-609.html)

Levi Danielson is the founder and cider maker at RAW Cider, based in Dayton, Oregon. With roots in the Driftless Region of Minnesota and a cidery nestled among cider apples and pears in the Willamette Valley, Levi's story is one of wild ferments, place-based cider, and planting for the future – both in Oregon and back home. Levi Danielson Building RAW Cider Levi's path began in microbiology and health policy before a leap to France introduced him to wild fermentation and orchard life. After interning and later leading production at Dragon's Head Cider in Washington, Levi launched RAW Cider in 2020 with méthode champenoise ciders that quietly matured during the pandemic. Since then, RAW Cider has: Opened a year-round tasting room on an orchard in Dayton, Oregon Earned gold and silver medals for its first releases Focused on native yeast fermentation, minimal intervention, and orchard-first practices Planted and top-grafted cider and perry fruit in both Oregon and Minnesota Pear Ambitions and a Regional Vision Levi's passion for perry is central to RAW Cider. With 60-year-old pear trees, now top worked with perry pear varieties and wild seedlings grafted in the Mississippi River Valley, plus collaborations in Hood River, he's betting on American perry's future. He believes Hood River could become the “Domfrontais of the U.S.”—a new home for pear-driven sparkling ciders that mirrors the pear region in Normandy, France. Listen to episode 313: Wild Yeast Fermentations | CiderCon 2022 featuring a panel discussion with Levi Danielson Contact info for RAW Website: https://www.rawcider.com Mentions in this Cider Chat European Union 100% juice movement – Sign the petition today! https://www.petitions.net/protect-european-artisanal-cider-and-perry Totally Cider Tours Inn on Lake Champlain Keep #ciderGoingUP by becoming a patron at the Cider Chat Patreon!  

As most beer enthusiasts know, hops play a vital role in the brewing process. The cone-shaped flowers impart distinct aromas that help distinguish, say, a pilsner from a pale ale. Oregon is one of only three states, along with Washington and Idaho, that commercially grows hops. Oregon and Washington are also the only two states that have their own USDA-supported breeding programs to develop new varieties of hops. But only Oregon can lay claim to the Strata hop, a variety that was bred at Oregon State University and released in 2018. Nearly all Strata hops today are being grown at just nine family farms in the Willamette Valley. But this quintessentially Oregon hop is about to get a lot more exposure thanks to Oregon Homegrown, a statewide beer collaboration launching on May 23. For two weeks, more than 20 Oregon breweries will showcase the flavor versatility of Strata to create an array of beers, from a Vienna lager to a hazy IPA to a fruited ale. Jeff Alworth is a journalist, author of several books on beer and the executive director of Celebrate Oregon Beer, a nonprofit he created last year that’s organizing the event. Gayle Goschie is a third-generation hop farmer and the co-owner of Goschie Farms in Silverton. They join us to share more details about Oregon Homegrown and what makes Strata hops so special.