Joe Dobbes: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Joe Dobbes of Iterum Wines. In this interview, Joe talks about his early career in the Oregon wine industry and how he now spends his days.

Joe dives into his journey with wine and how his passion was solidified with a harvest spent in Germany. He goes on to talk about his early wine career in Oregon and how his entrepreneurial spirit led him to create different businesses and brands.

Later in the interview, Joe reflects on the forty years he has spent in the Oregon wine industry. He talks about things he learned and his hopes for the future.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Orchard House Estate in Salem on July 14, 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.