Columbia Winery

Our next stop around the bend from Silver Lake Winery (where the Woodinville-Redmond Road veers left to become NE 145th) is Columbia Winery. Watch for it on your left. Founded in 1962 by ten friends, six of whom were professors at the University of Washington, Columbia Winery is considered Washington’s first premium winery. First known as Associated Vintners, the group was keen to prove that Washington could produce high-quality wines and began in the Seattle garage of one of the professors. Today, winemaker David Lake, often referred to as the “Dean of Washington Wine” (Wine Spectator), continues the founders’ tradition of innovation by introducing new varietals to the state, including Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, and Sangiovese. Wines from Columbia Winery are known for the rich, fruit flavors indicative of Washington. (14030 NE 145th; open from 10 am to 7 pm daily; 425-488-2776; www.columbiawinery.com.)