Stephen Cary: Oral History Interview

Stephen Cary is the winemaker at Yamhill Valley Vineyards in McMinnville, Oregon. Cary has left many impressive marks on the wine industry during his time thus far, including the founding of the Steamboat Conference and organizing the Burgundy Challenge. He knew early on that a normal 9-5 job was not the right path for him and has since been involved in the industry as a wine seller, buyer and maker. Cary makes his wine with the philosophy that the grapes tell him how to deal with them. To Cary, a significant aspect that differs Oregon wines from other parts of the world is the terroir. In this interview, Cary shares his experiences in the wine industry with people and place where he has been involved. Cary discusses the significance of soil types and the differences in the regions of the Willamette Valley AVA. As a final thought, Cary recalls the important roles that Yamhill Valley Vineyards has played, not only on his career, but for the industry as a whole.