This interview is with Chris Luby who worked at Cherry Hill winery and Dobbes Family Estate. Chris discusses his journey into the wine industry and how his career has changed over the years.
Chris originally became interested in wine after a honeymoon trip to Napa Valley in the late 1980’s, where he developed an interest in sparking wine. With a background in business and economics, he originally worked in insurance before deciding to pursue a career in wine. He taught himself about wine through reading and then decided he wanted to give it a try so he applied to work at High Pass Winery and completed a harvest internship there.
Chris began his winemaking career after being referred to a cellar job at what was formally known as Flynn Winery, where he worked a little over 3 years. He later worked at Cherry Hill, where he began making his own wine from 2003-2010. After Cherry Hill, Chris spent three years as a winemaker while also working in marketing and sales at Olsen Family Vineyards.
Chris then spent ten years at Hobbes Family Estate as a vineyard liaison and senior cellar technician. After deciding he wanted a change from the wine industry, he began working at Prestige Senior Living as an Enrichment Assistant. He also works as a certified personal trainer at Southwest Community Gym.
This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon on September 15, 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.