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
Wine
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
Mount Pisgah in Polk County rises as Oregon wine industry’s 23rd AVA
DALLAS, Ore. — As a newly established growing region, the Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon American Viticultural Area wasn’t even a year-old when one of its vineyards got invited to the wine industry’s storied Oregon Pinot Camp. It was a proud moment for Brad Ford, co-author of the AVA petition and owner/winemaker of Illahe Vineyards & Winery. He will share the … [Read more...] about Mount Pisgah in Polk County rises as Oregon wine industry’s 23rd AVA
Huston Vineyards: 2023 Idaho Winery of the Year
CALDWELL, Idaho — Gregg and Mary Alger can tell a winery story that many owners would cherish — plant vines, launch two brands, raise children and transition into a second-generation business. The founders each grew up as farm kids in the Snake River Valley, went to college and achieved success. Gregg helped build an office equipment business in Boise, decided to sell his … [Read more...] about Huston Vineyards: 2023 Idaho Winery of the Year
Rolling Hills Vineyard: 2023 Idaho Winery to Watch
GARDEN CITY, Idaho — Mark Pasculli graduated from one of the wine industry’s most respected universities, but he didn’t go to Fresno State for viticulture or enology. His degree was in accounting, yet he’s proven to be a quick study after purchasing a neglected Cabernet Franc vineyard in the Eagle Foothills in 2016 at the encouragement of his wife, Lori. Two vintages … [Read more...] about Rolling Hills Vineyard: 2023 Idaho Winery to Watch