EDMONDS, Wash. — For the past 20 years, Corey Braunel and Chad Johnson have taken risks as winemakers in Washington, and their gamble on Edmonds is another that’s paid off. When they started Dusted Valley Vintners in 2003, they were the 52nd winery to join the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance. Their expansion into Western Washington has been different — as … [Read more...] about Dusted Valley Vintners elevates Edmonds wine culture
Washington wine
Rising Stars: Ellie Zeron’s path to wine began in Venezuela, led to Red Mountain
BENTON CITY, Wash. — During my time as the wine program director at the Walter Clore Center, we staged an annual tasting for consumers called “Rising Stars,” at which some of Washington’s promising young wineries poured their wines. My column will now take a similar path, providing a platform for rising stars who don’t fit the traditional perception of winemakers. Ellie … [Read more...] about Rising Stars: Ellie Zeron’s path to wine began in Venezuela, led to Red Mountain
The wines that made us: Shae Frichette and Pinot Grigio
BENTON CITY, Wash. — Fate has a funny way of changing the game, especially when you put your trust in it and intend to follow it — wherever it may lead you. Shae Frichette studied theater, leaving her native South Carolina for Hollywood and a chance at life in the spotlight. “I did it for three years, and I wasn’t making much…” she laments. “I took a year off to … [Read more...] about The wines that made us: Shae Frichette and Pinot Grigio
Winescape Winery: 2023 Washington Winery to Watch
SPOKANE, Wash. — Phillip and Patricia Butterfield devoted their lives to public health, education and research, each concluding their decorated careers in Spokane with Washington State University. At their young Winescape Winery project, the Butterfields work as a tandem in a different field where seemingly every step they’ve taken has been the right one. They came up with … [Read more...] about Winescape Winery: 2023 Washington Winery to Watch
Abeja Winery and Inn: 2023 Washington Winery of the Year
WALLA WALLA, Wash. — When talking about the premier producers in the Pacific Northwest who work with the nation’s three most popular varieties — Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot — any serious buzz must include Abeja Winery & Inn. Ken and Ginger Harrison set the standard for a destination winery when they launched Abeja in 2000 across a century-old farmstead. … [Read more...] about Abeja Winery and Inn: 2023 Washington Winery of the Year