Mike Brunson: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Mike Brunson of Valley View Winery. In this interview, Mike discusses what it is like to be a winemaker and how that passion brought him to Oregon. Mike talks about his journey into the wine industry and how he had a natural gift for it. Mike has a good sense of smell and strong palate. This paired well with his former boss, Fred Payne, who passed the job down to Mike. Fred had his PHD in food science and Mike had the natural abilities. Mike reminisces about Fred serving as a meaningful mentor.Mike discusses the working relationship between him and his son who also works at Valley View. While they may argue over what music to play while working, Mike is proud of his children for the people they have become. Even his daughter is in the industry as she runs a separate winery.Later in the interview, Mike talks about what it is like to be head winemaker and having the wines you make available to consumers. He imagines that seeing people buy your wines is like being a music artist and having people sing your songs. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Valley View Winery on June 11, 2026.