Caryn Benke: Oral History Interview

This interview is with Caryn Benke of Galaxy Wine Company. In this interview, Caryn talks about her array of experiences within the restaurant and wine industry and how her involvement has granted her the ability to contextualize her academic learning of history, religion, and art. Caryn shares about the many hats that she has worn over her career and how valuable these roles have been in allowing her to better understand all facets of the industry from producer, consumer, and distributor. Later in the interview, Caryn shares the tactics she uses to keep consumers curious and the ways that she continues to educate her audience about wine. She also shares prospective avenues of experience from working closer with individual wineries and working harvest. This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University on June 5, 2025.