Pour & Explore: 4 Chelan Valley Wineries off of Highway 150
Lake Chelan’s wineries are gearing up for the busiest time of the year in the world of winemaking—harvest! The air is crisp, the leaves are starting to change, and the wineries are buzzing with activity. If you’re a wine lover (or just love a good time), now is the perfect time to visit the valley. This month, we’re highlighting four awesome wineries (okay, we snuck a cidery in too,) each with their own vibe and offerings. Take a tour with us as we explore these spots located just off of Highway 150.
Corral Creek Cellars – C3
Back in August 2021, Dave and Dana Smith took a leap and opened their boutique tasting room in the heart of Lake Chelan’s industrial area. Dana’s journey into the wine world started when she began working at a local winery. She quickly fell in love with everything about the industry and saw an opportunity to share that love with others. It took a bit of convincing, but after a memorable wine tasting trip to Walla Walla, Dave was on board, and Corral Creek Cellars—affectionately known as C3—was born! Dana even went on to complete the Enology program at WSU and now crafts all their wines.
Their wines are a true reflection of their passions. With a strong affinity for French and Italian varietals, they were inspired to create their signature bold red blends with grapes sourced exclusively from the prestigious Red Mountain AVA. They also offer two Provence-style dry Rosés—one from the Columbia Valley AVA and the other from the Lake Chelan AVA—both perfect for sipping anytime.
Endless Orchard Hard-Pressed Cider
Embark on a magical journey with ciders as enchanting as the orchards they hail from. Offering six unforgettable flavors, each lovingly crafted with 100% orchard-fresh apples, these ciders are so effervescently sweet and smooth, it’s hard to believe they’re hard. In their tasting room, Endless Orchard brings people together to learn a little, love a lot, and celebrate everything—from special limited-edition ciders to unique events and thoughtful gifts.
These ciders, born from the 1,250-acre Okanagan Specialty Fruits orchards in the heart of Washington state, are crafted solely from the divine Arctic apple. Experience these unique ciders at their tasting room, along with live music and a selection of sandwiches and charcuterie.
Rocky Pond Winery
It all started with a love for cycling, travel, and sharing good wine with friends. During their biking trips through France and Italy, the Dufenhorsts found themselves welcomed into the homes of families who had been crafting wine for generations, and it was there that their passion for winemaking truly took root.They purchased a small lot on the Columbia River, planted a few vines, and Rocky Pond Estate Winery was born. Their vineyards would go on to thrive thanks to the help of talented professionals and a bit of inspired madness. Now, they are excited to share the wines born from this journey, celebrating with family, friends, and wine lovers alike.
Enjoy their diverse array of wines, including rich reds and crisp whites. Each bottle reflects the unique terroir of their Columbia River vineyards, showcasing their commitment to quality and flavor. Unwind in a warm and welcoming atmosphere at their tasting room in historic downtown Chelan, or book a vineyard or winery tour along the Columbia River in Orondo.
Vin Du Lac Winery
Vin du Lac’s mission is to establish Lake Chelan as a premier destination for ultra-premium wines on the West Coast. Since their first vintage in 2002, they have gradually increased production and expanded their use of Chelan valley grapes, while continuously upgrading their facilities. Initially, they produced up to 6,000 cases in makeshift orchard sheds, enduring harsh winters and challenging conditions. Despite these obstacles, their meticulous attention to detail built a reputation for top-quality wines in North Central Washington.
Visitors to their Lake Chelan tasting room can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and sample hand-harvested wines made with traditional methods. The experience is complemented by their fine dining bistro restaurant, offering a gourmet menu that pairs perfectly with their wines, making it a memorable destination for wine and food lovers alike.
We’ll See You in Lake Chelan Wine Country
As the harvest season unfolds in Lake Chelan, there’s no better time to explore the rich and diverse offerings of the region’s wineries and cideries. From the bold reds and Provence-style Rosés at Corral Creek Cellars to the enchanting ciders at Endless Orchard, each stop promises a unique and delightful experience. Rocky Pond Winery invites you to savor wines that reflect their passionate journey, while Vin du Lac combines exceptional wines with a fine dining experience that’s perfect for a memorable outing. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking to enjoy some great local flavors, Lake Chelan’s wineries and tasting rooms are ready to welcome you with open arms and exceptional beverages.
