Estate Wines Made in the Vineyard
Established 1982
Gamache Vintners wines are crafted from hand-tended grapes grown on a remote, gentle southern slope on the eastern ridge of White Bluff overlooking the Basin City floor and flowing into the Ringold area on the Columbia River. When the Gamaches put their first vines in the ground in 1982, there were less than two dozen wineries in Washington State. Today, there are almost 800. Nearly 30 years of grape growing has given the brothers an appreciation for the unique expression of the site. By gently nurturing their vines in keeping with the climate, soil and rhythm of the seasons, Bob and Roger grow grapes with pure varietal character and a sense of place.
Grapes ripen beautifully here, with heat units varying from 2,800 – 3,200 annually. Like all of the Columbia Valley, rainfall is sparse averaging 6-8” inches yearly, primarily during the winter months allowing the Gamaches to use irrigation to precisely control water to the vine and vine vigor. Soils vary, from a sandy-loam mix to areas strewn with caliche, allowing for varietal block plantings matched to ideal soil types.
In The Vineyard
Almost Spring: The vines are still in dormancy, but we’re beginning to prune and checking wood. We can’t wait to taste the fruits of this 2012 vintage!
Our Winemakers
Charlie Hoppes (shown here)has made Gamache wines since the first vintage. Assistant winemaker Mitch Venohr joined the team in 2006.
Family Matters
Celebrating dad’s birthday with both mom and dad in 1994