Ocean Yap-Powell: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Ocean Yap-Powell of Rootstock PDX and the Wine Cellar. In this interview, Ocean speaks about her journey through the world of wine. She talks about her first jobs in the industry and how she learned about the Oregon Wine Industry. Ocean describes working at the Wine Cellar in Portland and what her philosophy is when working in a wine shop. She speaks about approaching customers and interacting with them so that they are in a comfortable learning environment. Ocean also discusses the nature of the Oregon Wine Industry. She talks about what growth she has seen in the industry, as well as what she would still like to see change. Later, she talks about Rootstock PDX and its mission to redefine wine culture, make more accessible wine, and create opportunities for underrepresented wine creators and consumers. She also talks about her hopes to grow the event and what she sees in the future for herself and Oregon Wine. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt and Lily Hanridge at Barrio in Portland on June 7, 2021.