Bryan Wilson: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Bryan Wilson of Cuckoo's Nest Cellars. In this interview, Bryan talks about his winding path in wine, culminating in starting his own brand in Southern Oregon.Bryan talks about growing up interested in wine, and finding his way into the industry after attending the University of Oregon. He later talks about his coming-of-age work at Benzinger Family Winery in Glen Ellen, Calif., getting to be part of every process as the Benzinger brand was growing and taking off.Later, he talks about coming to Oregon and various winemaking roles he held in the Rogue Valley before starting Cuckoo's Nest with his wife. He talks about learning how to make wine and the evolution he's seen in the industry.This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Plaisance Ranch in Williams on March 15, 2026. Thank you to Joe and Suzi Ginet for hosting us and providing an audience for the interview!Thank you to the Oregon Wine Board for generously supporting this interview as part of our Southern Oregon 2026 tour!