This interview is with Trevor Hertrich. In this interview, Trevor speaks about his path into the world of wine, explaining how he grew up in Chicago without much exposure to it and originally studied sociology at the University of Illinois before discovering wine while working in a restaurant.
Next, he discusses how his curiosity led him deeper into wine, becoming known as the “wine guy” and containing his studies in Arizona, where his interest in wine began to feel more like a potential career than just a side interest.
Trevor explains how his experiences in restaurants, retail, and distribution helped him build knowledge and connections, eventually leading him into wine education and involvement in the WSET program at Linfield University.
Finally, Trevor talks about his passion for wine as something complex an ever-evolving, as well as his goal to continue advancing in the field and give back through education while pursuing higher certifications like the Master of Wine.
This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt in the Nicholson Library at Linfield University in McMinnville on February 19, 2026.
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.