What's been a nightmare on many levels for the British Columbia wine industry is turning out to be somewhat of a godsend for growers in Washington state — especially with news that the 2024 harvest in the Evergreen State is projected to surpass 200,000 tons, up from the 159,500 tons picked in 2023. And some of these young relationships between British Columbia winemakers, … [Read more...] about Lightning Rock Winery in British Columbia helps blaze trail to Washington vineyards
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Van Westen Vineyards continues to succeed with old-school approach on Naramata Bench
NARAMATA, British Columbia — Rob Van Westen is about as old-school as it gets in this modern era of the British Columbia wine industry, and he believes that not enough people realize how difficult farming of any kind is in the Okanagan Valley. “Some people think we all have helicopter pads and drive Lamborghinis,” he says. “I drive a 1997 Dodge pickup truck.” These aren’t … [Read more...] about Van Westen Vineyards continues to succeed with old-school approach on Naramata Bench
When the Washington Wine Hall of Fame returns, let’s induct Lane Hoss
In the world of sports, it's standard practice for someone to have been retired for five years in order to be considered for their hall of fame. This past winter, Lane Hoss retired after a 42-year decorated career at Anthony’s Restaurants. Here is an abbreviated argument for her to become the next member of the Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame. Her induction likely … [Read more...] about When the Washington Wine Hall of Fame returns, let’s induct Lane Hoss
Exploration of Grüner Veltliner, other varieties adds spice to Idaho wine industry
NAMPA, Idaho — The wine industry is dependent on consumer tastes and whims. What makes responding to market trends so difficult is that it takes three to seven years before the first vintage with a different grape variety goes from planting to pouring for a consumer. With this long lead time, it’s a challenge Idaho winemakers and grape growers embrace every day as they make … [Read more...] about Exploration of Grüner Veltliner, other varieties adds spice to Idaho wine industry
The Wines that Made us: Ashley Trout and ‘99 Reininger Cabernet Franc
WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Within her first week of moving to the Walla Walla Valley in 1999, Ashley Trout got herself a job. She traded the Washington of politicos for the Washington of westward-wandering pioneers to attend Whitman College. She double majored in Anthropology and Rhetoric. Upon arrival, wine seemed like as good an idea as any. “When in Rome,” she says … [Read more...] about The Wines that Made us: Ashley Trout and ‘99 Reininger Cabernet Franc