Scott and Denise Whitman of Whitman Hill Winery
After trekking grapes from East of the mountains to their Bellingham winery for nearly 10 years, Scott and Denise Whitman decided to move winemaking operations to Zillah in the Rattlesnake Hills area of the Yakima Valley. They started their new Whitman Hill Winery in 2020, but weren’t too affected by the Covid pandemic. The couple were too busy purchasing land piecemeal, first two acres, then 25 with 8 planted to vines, and then another 6 containing a tasting room that needed some renovation. Today Whitman Hill consists of 75 acres with 30 planted to vines, beautifully manicured grounds, and a completely renovated tasting room. It’s a real destination winery, with lots of pathways, a pond with fountain and dock, cabanas, water features, concert area, and beautiful mountain views. In the cooler weather there are outdoor heaters and an indoor fireplace.
Scott and Denise enjoy educating people about their vineyard and winemaking process. Visitors can experience a Between the Vines Tour and Tasting that is especially nice to do during harvest season. Scott is the winemaker, and he produces wine under two labels. Whitman Hill is the flagship label offering the bolder, more complex wines. The Garage label is more value oriented and for everyday drinking. But both labels are very affordable and approachable, with most bottles costing $27 or less. One year the Whitman Hill Cabernet Franc was declared the best value wine among Platinum Award winners. In case you have beer lovers in your tasting group, Whitman Hill offers locally made beers, in addition to their excellent wines.
Listen to the Interview: