Bob McRitchie: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Bob McRitchie, former winemaker for Sokol Blosser Winery in Dayton, Oregon. McRitchie first gained experience in wine while in a lab position at Franciscan Vineyards in Napa Valley, California. Bill Blosser eventually found him while searching for a winemaker in California who wanted to come try winemaking in Oregon. McRitchie’s time in the wine industry included highlights such as the physical construction of the Sokol Blosser Winery, winning international awards for winemaking at events like the Burgundy Challenge, and traveling abroad. In this interview, Bob McRitchie shares thoughts about his time in the wine industry in Oregon and California. He tells of the importance of hindsight in planning for success in the industry, also deeming the romance of the grape to be a facade. McRitchie compares his experiences and feelings about Oregon and California, as well as how the industry is still changing today. This interview was conducted by Rachael Woody on March 3, 2015.