This interview is with Peter Ebbers of Stirling Wine Grapes. In this interview, Peter speaks his experience in the wine industry, specifically in the vineyard and the cellar, from places like Oregon to Virginia and even New Zealand.
Peter was first introduced to wine while studying abroad in Scotland, where colleagues invited him to a wine and cheese club. It was there that the curiosity and passion for wine started. After working as a house painter and a high school English teacher, he took the leap and moved from his home in Vermont to California to work harvest.
After a couple more harvest experiences, Peter studied at Lincoln University in New Zealand to better understand the farming behind vineyard work. Here, he learned how to make the most of the land, workforce, technology, capital, and “know-how.” Working in a vineyard shortly after helped to fill in that knowledge with practical experience.
With exposure to harvest in both the northern and southern hemispheres, Peter found his way back to Oregon wine country, where he appreciated that he could work in both the vineyard and the cellar. He speaks to his various wine jobs once settling in Oregon, how he as a team leader can affect work culture, and how the camaraderie of farmers benefits everyone.
This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University in the Nicholson Library on July 8, 2025.
What is The Oregon Wine History Archive Podcast?
The Oregon Wine History Archive at Linfield University was created to collect, preserve, share, and continue the narrative of Oregon wine.
The growth of the Oregon wine industry extends from the farmers and winemakers to the marketers, scientists, innovators, and dreamers of the enterprise — all of whom are vital to the industry’s success. It is our aim to link the past, present, and future of the industry in hopes of sharing the story of Oregon wine.
Some oral history interviews are conducted on site and may contain background noise from nature, winery, or tasting room operations.