From a Family of Farmers
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”
- T.S. Eliot
Brothers Bob and Roger Gamache are fourth generation Yakima Valley farmers who bucked conventional wisdom to plant wine grapes in 1982 at a time when Washington wines were largely unproven and essentially unknown. By focusing on the unique interaction of soil, climate, and vine, Bob and Roger have grown high-quality grapes for some of the best wineries in the state, winning accolades along with the way. In 2003, the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers honored Roger as its “Grower of the Year” for his dedication in the vineyard and work on behalf of the industry.
In 2002, after 20 seasons of growing grapes for others, the brothers decided it was time to let their vineyard shine in its own right. With friend, client and acclaimed winemaker Charlie Hoppes agreeing to act as consulting winemaker, Gamache Vintners was born. Having worked with Gamache grapes for years, Charlie understood the brothers’ vision – small-lot, hand-crafted wines designed to capture the pure expression of the fruit and the essence of a remarkable vineyard.
Roger Gamache chats with his daughter Jessica on yet-to-be-planted vineyard property in 1984
Roger’s daughter Jessica inspects the first harvest in 1984
Roger (left) with dad Euclid Gamache and Bob (right) bring in their first harvest off their estate vineyard in 1984