Second Annual One-Day Intensive Delivers Practical Business Tools for Wine Professionals
January 26, 2026 (McMinnville, OR) — The Center for Wine Education at Linfield University announces the return of the Wine Business Executive Workshop, a one-day professional development intensive for wine industry professionals. Building on a successful first year, the second annual workshop will take place Tuesday, March 24, from 9AM to 5PM on the Linfield University campus.
Launched in 2025 to address growing economic, operational and market pressures facing wine businesses, the workshop has quickly become a valued resource for small and mid-sized producers. In the post-event survey, 90% of participants rated the workshop content and quality of speakers as “excellent,” citing its practical focus and intimate format.
Designed for immediate, real-world application, the workshop focuses on wine sales and marketing, financial planning and business operations. The format emphasizes discussion, networking and shared problem-solving.
Featured speakers include:
Amanda Wittstrom Higgins, Owner, Full Cup Solutions
Rebecca Oliver, General Manager, Domaine St. Laurent
Joseph Orlando, ASA, Vice President of Valuation Services, Exit Strategies Group, Inc.
Bill Sweat, former Proprietor and Winegrower, Winderlea Vineyard and Winery
Participants mentioned the invaluable discussions with seasoned professionals that rarely occur in large conferences, and highlighted actionable tools, candid industry insight and peer connection as key takeaways.
The program includes a light breakfast, lunch and wine reception, along with expert-led sessions.
Registration is now open. For details, visit the Center for Wine Education events page at https://www.linfield.edu/wine/news/events.html or contact wine@linfield.edu.
About the Center for Wine Education at Linfield University
Located in Oregon wine country, the Center for Wine Education at Linfield University advances wine education through academic programs, including a wine studies major, MS: Wine business leadership and Graduate Certificate: Wine business leadership. Linfield is the only private liberal arts university in the U.S. offering undergraduate and graduate wine degree programs within a school of business.
