Porter Lombard: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Dr. Porter Lombard and covers topics including early wine industry history in Southern Oregon, research at the Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Center that began with the pear industry, and ideal soils and varietals for the region. Dr. Lombard focuses on the importance of a good soil, and he provides his opinions on the best soils in Oregon, paired with the types of varietals he’s seen flourish in the region. The interview also provides a history of how grape-growing knowledge evolved in the area, including the first research plot for wine grapes being planted in 1967, classes that Charles Coury taught for growers in the area, and how the OSU Extension Center came to include grape-growing research. This interview was conducted by Rachael Woody at Dr. Lombard’s home on July 29, 2013.