John Bradley: Oral History Interview

This interview is with John Bradley of Bradley Vineyards, covering topics such as the early wine industry history in the Umpqua Valley, John Bradley’s involvement in the industry, and the designation of Elkton as Oregon’s newest AVA (in 2013). In the interview, Bradley explains why he chose to begin a vineyard in the early 1980s and describes what it was like to plant a vineyard with little viticulture knowledge or available resources. He speaks to the romantic notion of winemaking and how it compares to the reality. The interview also covers stories of the early Umpqua and Elkton winemakers and details the journey to Elkton being recognized as the most recent AVA designation in Oregon. This interview was conducted by Rachael Woody at Bradley Vineyards on June 7, 2013.