WALLA WALLA, Wash. - Nearly a year after winemaker Eric Dunham died, a heavy cloud of grief remains over the family and friends he left behind. "It has haunted me," said Karen LaBonté, owner of Trio Vintners in Walla Walla, who was one of the last people to see Eric alive. "He was such a high-energy, friendly guy." Joanne Dunham still is trying to come to grips with why … [Read more...] about Grief, questions remain 10 months after Eric Dunham’s death
Washington wine
Dunham Cellars recovering, ready to grow after Eric Dunham’s death
WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Dunham Cellars has started a new chapter without the late Eric Dunham, but those he touched at his Walla Walla winery continue to struggle with completely turning the page. The 2015 vintage marks the first time for harvest to start without its beloved founding winemaker, who died Oct. 23, 2014, on the Oregon Coast of a self-inflicted gunshot. “The … [Read more...] about Dunham Cellars recovering, ready to grow after Eric Dunham’s death
New study gives clear picture of Walla Walla Valley vineyards
WALLA WALLA, Wash. - The Walla Walla Valley's reputation for great red wines is no accident. A study released today shows that of the valley's 2,836 acres of wine grapes, 95 percent are red varieties. While that shouldn't surprise many of the winemakers here, a few other facts might. Here are a few of the most interesting tidbits from this new study, conducted by the … [Read more...] about New study gives clear picture of Walla Walla Valley vineyards
Jones of Washington tops North Central Washington Wine Awards
WENATCHEE, Wash. - Victor Palencia's magical year continues. On Saturday evening, the winemaker for Jones of Washington won best of show at the fifth annual North Central Washington Wine Awards. Palencia earned the distinction for his 2014 Sauvignon Blanc using grapes from the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley. The Jones of Washington 2014 Rosé of Syrah earned best rosé. … [Read more...] about Jones of Washington tops North Central Washington Wine Awards
8 years after founder’s death, Baer Winery lives up to legacy
WENATCHEE, Wash. - Some 15 years ago, a young, talented winemaker burst onto the Washington scene and quickly became a mainstay in still-developing Woodinville wine country. His name was Lance Baer, and as quickly as he rose to fame as a young winemaking star, he nearly as quickly left us: In 2007, Baer died at the age of 39 of acute liver failure. But Lance's legacy … [Read more...] about 8 years after founder’s death, Baer Winery lives up to legacy