Title

Elena Rodriguez Interview

Media

Interviewer

Schmidt, Rich

Document Type

Video File

Duration

31 minutes 13 seconds

Publication Date

8-12-2019

Disciplines

Oral History | Viticulture and Oenology

Abstract

This interview is an oral history conducted by Linfield College archivist Rich Schmidt with Elena Rodriguez of Alumbra Cellars. The interview took place at Rodriguez's family property in Dayton, Oregon on August 12, 2019.

Elena Rodriguez is the president and owner of Alumbra Cellars, as well as vineyard manager for her family estate vineyard. In this interview, Rodriguez shares how she grew up, eventually taking over the vineyard from her father. She talks about the challenges in managing the vineyard, developing a love for farming grapes, how she goes about finding buyers for them, and her plans for current and future plantings. Rodriguez discusses her decision to make her own wine, how her Mexican American heritage represents her wine label, and the challenges in making wine. Rodriguez also explains what it has been like selling her wine, as well as her focus on selling to the Latino community. She describes her future plans for Alumbra, and she offers advice for individuals looking to enter the wine industry.

Comments

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

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