Pour & Explore: Wineries Nestled in the Heart of Downtown Manson
October in Lake Chelan brings cool mornings, golden leaves, and a sense of calm after the busy summer. It’s the perfect time to slow down and savor the flavors of the season—especially in the charming town of Manson. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on four downtown Manson wineries, each offering something unique for wine lovers. Whether you’re here for fall fun or just want to sip your way through the valley, these wineries will give you plenty to pour and explore.
Navarre Coulee Vineyards
The property where Navarre Coulee Vineyards planted their first vines has been in the family since the 1960s. In the spring of 2002, they decided to start growing grapes in Chelan’s perfect climate. Four of their forty acres are planted in cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc grapevines. Paul Taylor, originally from Port Macquarie, Australia, took the reins in 2014 and now makes the wine, tends the vineyards and has been known to sling a slice of pizza or two.
Known for his laid-back, hands-on approach, Paul crafts wine that capture the unique character of the Columbia Valley’s glacial soils. While he’s passionate about winemaking, he’s also become a bit of a local legend for his Wednesday Pizza Nights, especially for his infamous Pickle Pizza. Their tasting room in downtown Manson is where the magic happens – a laid-back spot where you can hang with Paul and his two boxer pups, Nefarious and Rose.
Radiance Winery | Downtown Manson
Radiance Winery made it official in 2012 with their first commercial harvest and the restoration of a 100-year-old barn, now home to their production facility and tasting room. Owner and winemaker Jeff Crowder completed his formal education at Washington State University’s Enology Program in 2014, pursuing his passion for crafting premium artisan wines. Located in Lake Chelan, the vineyard benefits from the “lake effect,” with over 300 sunny days a year and a climate that extends grape ripening, allowing perfect balance in the fruit. Committed to producing award-winning wines with a hand-crafted approach, the family looks forward to sharing their wines with others.
Radiance offers two unique tasting experiences! Enjoy hand-crafted, award-winning wines in a lively environment at their tasting room in downtown Manson. With close proximity to shops, restaurants and Manson Bay, their tasting room can accommodate large groups and is a great place to grab some pizza or chicken wings, mingle, and unwind! If you’re looking for the full estate winery experience, visit their winery located in a restored historic barn with a comfortable outdoor courtyard.
La Garza Cellars
Their story began in Colombia, with humble beginnings and a deep devotion among the Garzon family, with a dream for a family business, and agricultural roots from the generations before. In 2008, Rich Garzon started wine production in the Seattle area, learning from Washington and Oregon growers. After a decade of experience, Rich and his wife Roxanne moved to Central Washington in 2018 to immerse themselves in viticulture and the unique climate that defines Washington wine. In 2023, they partnered with Joe and Karla Moore and together they look forward to growing their business and inspiring the next generation.
Their wines are examples of Washington’s exceptional vineyards and focus on exhibiting Lake Chelan’s unique terroir. They are excited to provide a place in downtown Manson where people can gather for connection, conversation, and fun with friends and family. Grab a glass, a board game from their collection and your besties and enjoy their brand new space!
Diffraction Wines
Founded in 2009 by Charlie and Lacey Lybecker, Cairdeas Winery began as a small artisan venture in West Seattle. Inspired by Charlie’s Irish heritage and Lacey’s spirit of goodwill, the couple built their business on the values of friendship, alliance, and community. After several years, they relocated to the Chelan Valley, drawn by its natural beauty and ideal conditions for winemaking. Their journey led to the creation of Diffraction Wines, crafted from the same premium Washington vineyards as Cairdeas.
Located in downtown Manson, Diffraction offers wines perfect for any occasion, from casual pizza nights to family gatherings. Their retro vibes and classic arcade games provide a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere to sip and share wines that embody the spirit of friendship and connection. While you’re there grab an ice cream cone, freshly-popped popcorn or select a treat from their full menu of snacks and drinks for the whole family.
Vibe Cellars
Vibe Cellars traces its winemaking roots back to the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, where generations of the family honed their craft near the Italian/French border. Inspired by their heritage, Vibe Cellars specializes in Italian-style varietals and French Bordeaux-style reds, blending tradition with Washington’s exceptional fruit. With years of experience, WSU Enology certifications, and a passion for the art of winemaking, they are committed to producing fine wines that bring people together.
At their tasting room in downtown Manson, guests can enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with stunning views of Lake Chelan from their patio. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to unwind with friends, Vibe Cellars promises a laid-back experience where everyone can enjoy great wine and good vibes.
We’ll See You in Lake Chelan Wine Country
As October brings crisp air and vibrant fall colors to Lake Chelan, the wineries of downtown Manson invite you to indulge in the season’s flavors. La Garza Cellars offers bold, handcrafted wines in a cozy tasting room, while Diffraction Wines brings approachable, everyday wines perfect for any occasion. At Radiance Winery, you’ll discover rich, full-bodied wines, and Navarre Coulee Vineyards captures the unique essence of the region’s terroir. Swing by Vibe Cellars for a laid-back experience with good vibes galore. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or just passing through, these Manson wineries are ready to share the best of fall in the heart of wine country.
