A diverse network of small, family-owned wineries and tasting rooms throughout Wenatchee, Leavenworth and Lake Chelan have formed an alliance to create a new brand for this Washington wine destination, Cascade Valley Wine Country. Located approximately two hours from Seattle, Cascade Valley Wine Country begins in the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, travels east through the Wenatchee Valley and extends north to Lake Chelan.
“The majestic mountains, lush valleys, clear blue skies, pristine waters and an array of outdoor recreation opportunities have been drawing visitors to this Northwest region for years, long before grape growing and wine producing came into being,” said Jean Ashby, director of Cascade Valley Wine Country. “Pairing the spectacular surrounding, seemingly endless amount of recreation and leisure activities with the world-class wines and small, innovative wineries truly creates ‘Washington’s Peak Wine Experience.’”
The alliance’s objective is to share the unique characteristics of this region with wine enthusiasts and general consumers. The new Web site, Cascadevalleywinecountry.com, has everything visitors will need to plan a trip to Cascade Valley Wine Country: a travel map, winery descriptions and other useful information to assist in navigating throughout the region’s nearly 50 wineries and tasting rooms.
Two American Viticultural Areas (AVA) are represented in the region, including the new Lake Chelan AVA and the Columbia Valley AVA. The development and promotion of Cascade Valley Wine Country is funded by contributions from the Port of Chelan County and the Port of Douglas County.
“Chelan and Douglas Counties have developed a burgeoning wine industry, which is an instrumental factor to the economic development of the area,” said JC Baldwin, commissioner of Port of Chelan County. “Not only are our winemakers producing award-winning vintages, but numerous innkeepers, travel operators and local artisans are contributing time and talent that helps define this distinctive destination.”
For a complete list of wineries and more information visit www.cascadevalleywinecountry.com.