Title

Dick and Betty O'Brien Interview

Media

Interviewer

Schmidt, Rich

Interviewer

Weber, Camille

Document Type

Video File

Duration

55 minutes 29 seconds

Publication Date

3-5-2015

Disciplines

Oral History | Viticulture and Oenology

Abstract

This interview is with Dick and Betty O'Brien, the owners of Elton Vineyards in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Dick and Betty's interest in wine began on a 1980 trip to Germany where they stayed with a German family who had a small vineyard of white varietals and made their own wine. The O'Briens were so impressed with the small operation they had witnessed, they approached Betty's father about putting in their own vineyard. Both parties were skeptical with the little farming experience Dick and Betty had, but later they got the "okay" by her parents and they began with five acres. Over the years they learned the ups and downs of grape growing and established themselves as significant grape growers in the area.

In this interview, the O'Briens share the story of how they entered the wine industry, their background, and how they continue to be involved. The O'Briens offer insight based on their own learning experiences "doing things the 'Oregon' way."

Comments

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

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