Rob Clarke: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Rob Clarke of Terrapin Cellars. In this interview, Rob speaks about finding wine as a career change, and the many opportunities afforded to him by pursuing wine education through Chemeketa Community College.

Rob then talks about starting and growing a vineyard management company, and the circumstances that led to him beginning to make his own wine as well. He speaks of the growth of both businesses and where they stand today, as well as what he expects to happen next.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt in the Nicholson Library at Linfield University in McMinnville on December 4, 2023.

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.