Jeff Woodard was born and raised in McMinnville, as a sixth generation Oregonian. His family was one of the original pioneers and served on the first territorial legislature that signed the state as part of the Union. He graduated from Linfield College, with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Public Speaking (with a strong emphasis in the wine industry).
For more than a decade, Jeff has developed a strong background in the wine business. He has led some of the most successful marketing and sales programs for wineries in the Willamette Valley.
In 2009, Jeff was recruited by The Carlton Winemakers Studio to become their first ever Wine Director. Jeff took “The Studio” to a new level and more than doubled the sales within the first year. In 2010, he launched the Liquid Synergy Wine Club and recruited members, making it one of the most successful clubs in the region. Jeff was actively involved as the “face of the winery” - representing a dozen of the region’s most highly coveted producers.
He excels at selling wine, establishing solid relationships with buyers and thrives on educating consumers about wine. Opening a wine shop in downtown McMinnville has been a career dream and goal ever since college. He has been touted as one of the top wine educators, sales and marketing professionals in the industry.
Jeff has always been very active with providing service to his community. He was one of the youngest members ever to be appointed on the Yamhill County Sherriff ’s Posse, a public relations arm of the Sherriff’s Office that also serves and protects the community. In 1993, Jeff was the youngest member to participate in the 150 Year Anniversary for The Oregon Trail Sequential Trail Ride. In 2008, he attended and graduated the Law Enforcement Academy. Jeff became a paid Reserve Sherriff ’s Deputy in Yamhill County, while also working in the wine business.
When Jeff is not seen at the wine shop, or volunteering in his community - there's only one place he can be: casting his line on the river. He's an avid fisherman and is known for catching his dinner after a long day of work.