Dean Sandifer: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Dean Sandifer of Domaine Coteau. In this interview, Dean speaks about being bitten by the wine bug while living and working in the Twin Cities in Minnesota. He talks about his early home winemaking and co-owning a wine shop while living there, in addition to some of the aeronautical computer work he was doing for the US Navy.

He then discusses how he came to Oregon and looked for vineyard land, finding a space he liked in the Eola Amity Hills, then planting his vineyard and starting his wine label. He talks about making and selling wine, and what he's been up to in retirement.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt on June 27, 2024 at Linfield University in McMinnville.

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.