What year did Columbia Crest Winery Open?

Answered by Marvin Richey

Columbia Crest Winery opened its doors in the year 1982, making it the very first winery in the prestigious Horse Heaven Hills AVA. This was a significant milestone for the region, as it marked the beginning of an exciting journey into the world of winemaking. I can still vividly remember my first visit to Columbia Crest, many years ago. The anticipation and excitement were palpable as I walked through the doors, eager to explore the world of that awaited me.

The year 1982 was a time of great enthusiasm and experimentation in the wine industry. Winemakers were pushing boundaries and exploring new terroirs, and Columbia Crest was at the forefront of this movement. The winery was founded by a group of visionaries who recognized the immense potential of the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. They saw the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography as the perfect recipe for producing exceptional wines.

As I walked through the winery, I was struck by the dedication and passion that went into every step of the winemaking process. From the carefully tended vineyards to the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, every detail was meticulously planned and executed. The winemakers and staff at Columbia Crest were committed to crafting wines of outstanding quality, and it showed in every bottle.

Over the years, Columbia Crest has earned unparalleled global acclaim for its vintages. The winery has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier producers in the region. I have had the privilege of tasting many of their wines, and I can say with certainty that they are truly exceptional.

One of my most memorable experiences at Columbia Crest was attending a tasting event where I had the opportunity to sample a vertical selection of their Cabernet Sauvignon. It was fascinating to taste wines from different vintages and see how they evolved over time. Each bottle had its own unique character and story to tell, reflecting the nuances of the growing season and the winemaking techniques employed.

Columbia Crest Winery opened its doors in 1982, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of winemaking. Since then, the winery has consistently produced wines of outstanding quality, earning global acclaim and recognition. As a sommelier and brewer, I have been fortunate enough to experience the exceptional wines created by Columbia Crest, and I can confidently say that they are a true testament to the art and craft of winemaking.