Proust Q&A: Mo Ayoub

A small producer in Oregon’s Dundee Hills, Ayoub Wines, has been producing stellar wines for years but winemaker Mo Ayoub, prefers to keep a low-profile. With just four acres of vineyard production is limited to around 2,000 cases a year and most of it is sold by mailing list still. In an interview with dbHK, the winemaker talks about his fears, his most treasured possession and Forrest Gump.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Doing what you love to do in life, and sharing it with the people you love.

What is your greatest fear?

Losing what I have accomplished and having health issues.

Which living person do you most admire?

I admire a lot of people for different reasons.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Dinner at Joel Robuchon.

What is your current state of mind?

Content.

What is the quality you most like in another person?

Kindness and Honesty.

Who or what is the greatest love of your life?

My wife, Linh.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

“Great”, “needs time”, “gorgeous”, “listen to me now and believe later!”

When and where were you happiest?

Currently at my home/winery/vineyard in Dundee Oregon.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

Worry less.

Which talent would you most like to have?

In addition to winemaking, being a musician.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My fast success in the wine business and making interesting wines that people love.

Where would you most like to live?

In my house in Dundee Oregon next to my vineyard and winery, beautiful place!

What is your most treasured possession?

My vineyard and my mom’s wedding ring.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Genuine and generous.

Who is your favourite writer?

Kahlil Gibran.

Who is your hero of fiction?

The movie character I really liked is Forrest Gump.

What is it that you most dislike?

Dishonest and cheap people.

What is your greatest regret?

Not spending more time with my parents (due to long distance) before they passed away.

What is your motto?

Do it right or don’t do it!

Who would be your ideal dinner party guests and what three wines would you serve?

I have great passion for food and wine. My ideal dinner party would include great chefs & winemakers, and enjoy their creations.