Jim Bernau
Willamette Valley Vineyards was established in 1983, when Founder Jim Bernau replaced an overgrown pioneer plum orchard in the Salem Hills with Pinot Noir, watering his vines with a garden hose. Jim has been recognized for environmentally responsible wine growing by LIVE (Low Impact Viticulture and Enology) as well as receiving the Sustainable Standard-Setter award from the Rainforest Alliance for their use of FSC Certified cork. Jim believes among the healthiest forms of business are those owned by the community. Jim’s vision of organizing the support of wine enthusiasts to make world-class wines through shared ownership has resulted in more than 19,000 wine enthusiast owners (NASDAQ: WVVI & WVVIP).
