The Oregon Wine History Archive Podcast5 Aug

Rich Cushman: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Rich Cushman of Viento Wines. In this interview, Rich revisits his Oregon wine story and shares updates on his journey since his previous interview in 2014.

Rich talks about the spark that set him on the winemaking path. Rich took a tasting class at Oregon State University in 1977 and fell in love with wine. With a passion for science and art, Rich decided to get his masters at UC Davis. After graduating, Rich did a harvest internship in Germany in 1980 where he learned a lot about the winemaker he wanted to become. When he returned, a friend gave him his extra vines so Rich planted them in 1981, creating his brand Viento Wines.

Rich discusses his role in the industry now that he is pseudo-retired. Rich still has five clients that he guides throughout harvest. Rich also has two sons that are involved in the wine industry as well. His son, Peter, is a winemaker at Jacob Williams and his son, Joe, is on the vineyard side at Threemile Vineyard. Rich is incredibly proud that his children continue to contribute to the Oregon wine industry. As for himself, Rich currently enjoys gardening, cooking, cycling, swimming, and traveling.

Later in the interview, Rich talks about the changes he has seen within the Oregon wine industry since his beginnings in the 80s. Rich believes that wine used to be more simple and friendly even though he claims it is easier to make wine these days compared to when he started. He wants the truthfulness of the Oregon wine industry to be maintained, but he has hope for the future.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University in McMinnville on July 27, 2026.

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