I’ve been yearning to visit the Lake Chelan area for a few years now, and finally it’s about to happen! Not only is the area beautiful and relaxing, but Lake Chelan became the 11th American Viticulture Area (AVA) offically recognized in Washington state more than a year ago. Lake Chelan, by the way, is the longest lake in Washington and the third-deepest lake in the U.S.

The area boasts almost 50 wineries and tasting rooms with more than 75 wines from 27 varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and Chardonnay. Although I’ve not been there before, I have met some of the region’s warm and wonderful winemakers and producers.

Along with some of my wine blogger friends and colleagues, I’ll finally be able to visit Don and Judy Phelps at Hard Row to Hoe and stop by Fielding Hills,  where I hope to finally be able to taste some of their award-winning Cab Franc. Along the way, we’ll also see Martin-Scott, Saint Laurent, Tsillan Cellars, Nefarious Cellars, Chateau Faire Le Pont, Karma Vineyards & Cave and hopefully Vin du Lac .  

Then we’ll head to the Leavenworth area to La Toscana, Icicle Ridge and Eagle Creek. That means one of our favorite restaurants, Visconti, is also on the itinerary! And hopefully, there will be time to check in with Rob Newsom at Boudreaux Cellars too.

If you want to follow all of our tweets during our visit to Cascade Valley Wine Country next weekend, keep an eye on the hashtag ##cvwc.

Award-winning wines, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes and only two hours from Puget Sound. Tell me again why I’ve not visited yet? I can’t wait!

Cheers!