Remy Drabkin

Remy Drabkin is an American winemaker and politician serving as the mayor of McMinnville, Oregon. A prominent figure in the Willamette Valley wine industry, she is the founder and owner of Remedy Wines and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and community development in Yamhill County. Her election in 2020 made her one of the first openly lesbian mayors in the state of Oregon.

Early life and education

Remy Drabkin was raised in McMinnville, Oregon, within the heart of the state's premier wine-growing region. Her early exposure to the local agriculture and viticulture deeply influenced her future career path. She pursued higher education at the University of Oregon in Eugene, where she studied political science and developed a strong interest in public policy and community organizing. During her university years, she also gained practical experience working at several renowned Willamette Valley wineries, solidifying her passion for the wine industry.

Career

Following her education, Drabkin embarked on a career in winemaking, establishing her own label, Remedy Wines, in McMinnville. Her focus has been on producing small-lot, Rhône-style wines, a distinctive niche within the Oregon wine scene known predominantly for Pinot noir. She has been an active member of various industry organizations, including the Oregon Wine Board and the Willamette Valley Wineries Association. Drabkin has also been a frequent participant and judge at events like the International Pinot Noir Celebration and the San Francisco International Wine Competition, earning respect for her expertise.

Political career

Drabkin's political career began with her service on the McMinnville City Council, where she advocated for urban planning, economic development, and support for local businesses. In 2020, she was elected Mayor of McMinnville, succeeding Rick Olson, and took office in January 2021. Her administration has prioritized issues such as affordable housing, homelessness response, climate action planning, and fostering a more inclusive city government. She has worked closely with regional bodies like the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments and state agencies to secure funding for community projects.

Personal life

Remy Drabkin is openly lesbian and has been a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ equality in Oregon. She resides in McMinnville with her family and is actively involved in numerous local civic and cultural organizations. Her interests include sustainable agriculture, historic preservation of downtown McMinnville, and supporting the arts through venues like the Gallery Theater. Drabkin is also known for her involvement with charitable causes, including those supporting HIV/AIDS services and food security initiatives in Yamhill County.

Awards and recognition

Throughout her career, Drabkin has received several accolades for both her winemaking and civic leadership. Her wines have earned medals at prestigious competitions such as the Portland International Wine Competition and the Sip Magazine Best of the Northwest awards. In 2022, she was honored by organizations like Basic Rights Oregon for her advocacy work. She has also been recognized by local media, including the Portland Business Journal and the Statesman Journal, for her impact on the community and the Oregon wine industry.

Category:American winemakers Category:Mayors of places in Oregon Category:LGBTQ+ politicians from Oregon Category:University of Oregon alumni Category:People from McMinnville, Oregon