The founder of DeLille Cellars is a group of individuals who came together with a shared vision and passion for creating Bordeaux-style blends in Washington state. Jay Soloff, Chris Upchurch, and Charles and Greg Lill were the driving force behind the establishment of the winery in 1992. These individuals had a deep appreciation for the wines of Bordeaux and believed that Washington state had the potential to produce exceptional wines in a similar style.
Jay Soloff, one of the founders, had a background in the wine industry and a strong desire to create wines that reflected the unique terroir of Washington state. Chris Upchurch, another founder, was a winemaker who shared Soloff's vision and brought his expertise in crafting Bordeaux-style blends to the table. Charles and Greg Lill, the remaining founders, provided the financial backing and business acumen necessary to turn their dream into a reality.
Together, these individuals set out to establish DeLille Cellars as a winery dedicated to producing high-quality, Bordeaux-inspired wines. They recognized that Washington state's climate and soil conditions were well-suited for growing the grape varieties commonly found in Bordeaux, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. By focusing on these grape varieties and utilizing traditional winemaking techniques, they aimed to create wines that showcased the unique characteristics of the region.
From the beginning, DeLille Cellars set itself apart by being the first winery in Washington state to focus exclusively on both red and white Bordeaux-style blends. This commitment to producing balanced, elegant wines has been a hallmark of the winery since its inception. The founders believed that blending different grape varieties allowed them to create wines with greater complexity and depth, and this philosophy continues to drive their winemaking practices today.
Over the years, DeLille Cellars has gained a reputation for producing some of the finest Bordeaux-style blends in the state. Their wines have consistently received critical acclaim and have been recognized for their exceptional quality. This success can be attributed to the dedication and expertise of the founders, as well as the continued commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting several wines from DeLille Cellars and have been consistently impressed by the depth and complexity of their Bordeaux-style blends. Each wine I have tried has showcased the unique characteristics of the grape varieties used, while still maintaining a sense of balance and elegance. It is clear that the founders' vision and passion for creating exceptional wines has been carried through to the present day, making DeLille Cellars a true standout in the Washington state wine industry.