Steve Whiteside: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Steve Whiteside of Bella Vida 360. In this interview, Steve speaks about his early life and first career in orthotics and prosthetics. He talks about meeting Jim and Loie Maresh and being instantly captivated by the Oregon wine industry.

He then talks about embarking on his 25-year plan of buying property, installing a vineyard, building a tasting room, and starting a brand. He speaks about meeting winemakers and grapegrowers and becoming part of the wine community in the Dundee Hills.

Finally, he speaks about selling his vineyard in 2021 and starting Bella Vida 360 in Yamhill. He talks about the appeal of the space and his plans for tasting experiences and events at the top of the hill.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt on July 29, 2024 at Bella Vida 360 in Yamhill.

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.