Winemaker / Owner
What are you most passionate about?
My passion is driven by the opportunities for women in winemaking and enology and the creativity we have in this field. Having passion for winemaking drives me to reach beyond the boundaries set and to differentiate myself from the way other winemakers approach varietals. My goal is to let the varietals express themselves without manipulation. As we say “Patience and Passion is how we make our wine”.
What are the moments that define your work or career?
I have had the opportunity to work with world- renowned winemakers, and with each one, I have learned how and why they create their wines. I worked for Chateau Ste Michelle and learned about making large quantities and staying consistent. When I worked in Oregon for Rex Hill and Highland Estates I learned about patience with Pinot Noirs and how finicky they can be… with patience they will show you an amazing flavorful pallet and bouquet. While working in Napa, I really learned about honing my winemaking skills with big Cabernets, Merlots and Syrahs. They are elegant and beautiful when giving the right yeast and oak to express themselves.
What led you into the world of wine?
When I moved to Washington from Colorado, I loved gardening and seeing what can be grown. While working for Chateau Ste Michelle the more I learned about wine and winemaking the more I wanted to learn. I do believe this is an area where learning is never ending. The climate is changing, clones are changing, and they all have to be managed both in the vineyard and during fermentation. I love to learn.
What is your greatest career achievement?
The greatest achievement after working in several different jobs in the wine industry was when we were able to open our first tasting room here in Washington State and grow from 300 cases a year to 3500 cases a year. Having scored a 98-point wine tells me I am exactly where I belong.
What challenge excites you the most?
With every harvest I get excited to see and taste what that vintage will bring, both challenges and excitement from a new vineyard or new varietal we are trying. I have to understand the vineyard and varietal and apply what I have learned to create a beautiful wine.
What does your happy place look like?
My happy place is sitting with friends around our outdoor fireplace and pizza oven sharing wines, telling stories and creating new memories with each bottle of wine. Knowing that my wife and friends come together to share our wines and wines of others.
Web: www.adricewines.com
