Sometimes, when we find a new-to-us winery that has it all, we talk about it for days. That’s what happened when we visited Mellisoni Vineyards in Chelan in central Washington state. Mellisoni is a winery with almost two dozen wines, wonderful people, and a very large lawn with gorgeous views of Lake Chelan. Our stop there was an unplanned and unexpected highlight of our recent road trip. Rob and Donna Mellison, who are co-owners and co-winemakers, shared their stories with us. My notes describe them as, “Entertaining, warm, friendly, enthusiastic, and passionate.” Both of them are such incredible storytellers that we stayed there for three hours, drinking their excellent wine, eating and laughing.
The Mellisoni Story
Rob and Donna Mellison began their dream to start a winery back in 2002, when they visited Livernano, a luxury resort village with a winery and working farm in the heart of Tuscany. There, they appreciated “Agriturismo, a more personal and intimate experience with wine, food and friends.” They stayed with the owner at his villa, meeting guests from all over the world, drinking elegant Italian wines, eating delicious family-style meals, and laughing a lot.
They decided to bring their experience back to Lake Chelan to share with others. When they told the owner of the Livernano winery of their plans, he gave them this advice. “Make wine for your own palate, for if in the end no one likes your wines and you are stuck with them, at least you know you’ll enjoy drinking them!”
So, when they returned home, they purchased the vineyard and scenic lakefront property, and began their business in 2004. In fact, they just released 20th anniversary glasses (above) to commemorate the occasion. Currently, they produce 5,500 cases a year. Their mission is “to craft elegant wines and create great experiences for their customers to remember for a lifetime as well.” Mission accomplished with us!
Mellisoni Wines
We enjoyed all the Mellisoni wines we tasted, including Rosé of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Barbera, Sixty Degrees (Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Barbera), Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the impressive, unreleased 2022 Mellicaia blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. These are special-occasion wines, ranging in price from $40-$200. Some might think these price points mean the winery and its owners are stuffy and pretentious, but they’re quite the opposite.
White Wines and Rosé
180 Degrees Rosé 2023 ($45) is 100% Pinot Noir, made with two clones, 777 and Pommard. What a beauty! Donna told us that rosé is first wine they created, and this vintage could be their best yet. We adored it.
Donna and Rob fermented Chardonnay 2023 ($55) in stainless steel tanks with grapes from their LarcHill Estate and Stillwater Creek Vineyards. My notes simply say, “My kind of Chardonnay.” Yes, it was that good.
Red Wines
Barbera 2021 ($60) is chock-full of flavors of blueberries and blackberries, with hints of chocolate and spice. Donna called it an Italian-style red wine that’s rich and drinkable, and pairs well with food.
Sixty Degrees 2021 ($75) blends equal parts of Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Barbera, all grown on the estate. What a luxurious mouthfeel, with velvety textures of cherries, cassis and pepper. We understand why it’s so popular.
Merlot 2021 ($60) is both beautiful and impressive. We tasted berries and vanilla in this smooth, smooth wine, sourced from Stillwater Creek VIneyards. It’s a standout.
Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($85) is gorgeous. Think dark berries, figs, milk chocolate and spices. This Cab Sauv is complex, plush and perfect to pair with grilled meats. As Donna said, this Cab has it all. We agree.
They haven’t yet released their $200 flagship 2022 Mellicaia blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cab Franc, but Rob kindly gave us a taste. This captivating wine has the wow factor. Although it won’t be available until next year, Mellicaia is a showstopper, oozing with potential (and with dark chocolate notes).
Summary
In conclusion, we highly recommend you stop at Mellisoni Vineyards when you visit the Lake Chelan AVA. You’ll discover a wine tasting experience unlike many. In other words, a Washington style of Agriturismo, with outstanding wine, delightful people, lots of laughs, and breathtaking scenery. We will go back!
Credit for the wine and glass photos goes to our friend Chuck Kinzer, a professional photographer. He and his wife Rita added even more fun to this unexpected adventure.
Meanwhile, find us on Instagram and Facebook, and here at Write for Wine – It’s Wine O’Clock Somewhere.
Cheers!
Margot and Dave