Colin Eddy: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Colin Eddy of NW Wine Company. In this interview, Colin talks about his growth within the industry and the growth of NW Wine Company.

Colin talks about growing up in Texas and working in restaurants at an early age. When he transitioned to a big steak house, his wine journey began. This restaurant offered over 100 wines by the glass and were looking for someone to manage their wine program. Colin stepped up and got to taste a plethora of wines, even traveling around the world to taste more. When Colin realized he couldn’t stay in restaurants forever, he reached out to wine reps he had worked with to switch careers. Eventually, Colin was asked to come to Oregon to work at Penner-Ash Wine Cellars until it was sold to Jackson Family Wines.

James discusses his next move after losing work at Penner-Ash. Colin had known Laurent Montalieu from being at Penner-Ash and was hired at NW Wine Company through recommendations. In the 10 years he has worked with the company, they have doubled in vineyard acreage and expanded in number of employees as well. Starting in sales, Colin wanted to lead. When the company hired international sales employees, Colin rose to Senior VP of Sales. Now, he also creates his own wine at NW named after his son, Daniel Ford.

Later in the interview, Colin talks about his other involvements in the Oregon wine industry. Colin has been largely involved in Oregon Pinot Camp serving as the treasurer, Vice Chair, and eventually Chair. He truly believes in the program and cannot wait to act as a mentor to future members. He was also offered a spot of the board of directors and fulfills in the role with great honor.

This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at NW Wine Company in Dundee on July 21, 2026.