MikeL's Guide to WA Wineries
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Production: (2001) 150 cases, (2002) 500 cases
Vineyards: 1/2 acre in 2001 -- some portion of the 20 acre orchard will be replaced with grapevines over the next few years.
Distribution: Self distributed - Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Cashmere area, and of course the winery itself.
History:
In 1976, Charles and Mary Ann McKee bought Riverbend Ranch an apple and pear orchard near Leavenworth and Wenatchee.
In the mid-1990's, the WA fruit market took a downturn, so Charles and Mary Ann decided to diversify. They planted 13 vines in 1999, and as of early 2002 have 400 vines representing 10 different varieties.
Charlie learned about winemaking when stationed in Italy as a young Marine in the mid-1950's. Since the early 1980's, he's been making wine as an amateur, and has more recently taken U. C. Davis correspondence courses in order to brush up on the latest techniques.
The winery itself was bonded in 2001. The whole family participates
in the winemaking.
Sources:
[the winery]
The Wines:
As the winery has an official website with detailed wine notes, I'll leave this section to them. Please visit the link (above) for current wine info.
Reds:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Syrah
- Cabernet Franc
- Bordeaux Blend
- Chardonnay
- White Riesling
- Montmorency Magic An after dinner drink made from Montmorency Cherries.
- Royal Amber A sweet dessert wine made from Royal Anne Cherries.
Winemakers:
Charlie McKee 2001-present
Of special note:
Wedge Mountain Winery is commited to producing the most delicious and sensational wines in the Northwest.
Says Charlie: "We intend to remain a small family owned business. We hope to become one of many wineries involved in a tour of the Wenatchee Valley, something similar to Yakima Area. We think the Wenatchee Valley is prettier, and we already have the tourists that come to Leavenworth."
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