Charley Coury and Joel Myers: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Charley Coury and Joel Myers, telling the story of Charles Coury (Charley's father) and his life. Charles Coury attended UC Davis and helped start the modern Oregon wine industry in the Willamette Valley in the mid-1960s. Charley and Joel, who grew up together in Sacramento, Calif., before both families eventually moved to Oregon, talk about Charles' early life, his work and education in wine, his time in France and his befriending of David Lett. They then talk about the move to Oregon, the beginning of Charles Coury Winery, and Charles' eventual exit from the industry as well as his life post-wine. In addition, Charley and Joel discuss a number of other people involved in the early industry and show off pictures from Charley's collection, and discuss Charles Coury's legacy in Oregon wine. Despite the story mostly being about Charles Coury, Charley also talks about notable events in his own life, including his religious awakening and the formation of his business. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University's Nicholson Library on May 20, 2022.