Kim Bellingar: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Kim Bellingar of Bellingar Estates. In this interview, Kim discusses the nature of the Oregon Wine Industry, noting the sense of community that is present in Oregon. She describes her work at Adelsheim Vineyard and how that experience is helping her with Bellingar Estates. Kim goes on to predict what the future of the Oregon Wine industry will look like. She says that there is a desire for people to buy local and a desire to know the story behind the wine they drink. She predicts that Oregon will continue to grow and change, that there will be more business direct to consumer, and that consumers will become more connected to brands. Later, Kim offers words of advice for anyone looking to enter the Oregon Wine industry, saying that you can learn everything that you want if you are courageous enough to ask and get involved. Working in a vineyard, volunteering on a bottling line, or taking a harvest internship will expose you to many parts of the industry. Then, find the right people and ask questions because it’s likely that someone has the answers. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Bellingar Estates in Newberg on February 9, 2021.