Waterbrook Winery, founded in the acclaimed Walla Walla Valley by Eric and Janet Rindal, has been offering a fabulous selection of premium, award winning wines since 1984. Our name was chosen to complement the translation from Nez Perce Indian dialect for the name Walla Walla, meaning "running water". The winery is best known for its super premium wines and its picturesque tasting room located on Main Street in the popular downtown Walla Walla. Waterbrook's wines are crafted by winemaker John Freeman who was raised in the Napa Valley and now calls Walla Walla home, after the unspoiled landscape and exciting potential of the region won him over. Cabernet Sauvignon and Melange Noir Blend lay claim to Waterbrook's most popular red varieties and Waterbrook Chardonnay continues to be a favorite of critics and consumers alike, boasting recognition as a "Best Buy" or "Spectator Selection" from Wine Spectator for many years running. Waterbrook was acquired by Precept Wine Brands in December, 2006.
The Region
Washington wine country lies in a sunlit valley in the eastern part of the state. Sheltered by two mountain ranges, the Cascades and the Olympics, the diverse environment creates the perfect climate for wine.
Washington state is the 2nd largest producer of premium wine in the country
Over 350 wine grape growers
Low rainfall of 6-8 inches per year allows winemakers the unique opportunity to manage vineyard growth through drip irrigation.
Washington state produces 20 primary varietals ranging from the complex flavors found in Syrah to floral Rieslings.
With every vintage, knowledge of individual vineyard characteristics and winemaking subtleties have contributed to Waterbrook wines' complexity and flavor profiles. The goal for the red wines has been to make softer, fleshier wines for early enjoyment while still maintaining the wines' depth and structure. Results have been gratifying and as such, the demand for both the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot has been far beyond supply. Waterbrook Chardonnay is now recognized as one of the most consistent, best values in its very competitive field. For five years, The Wine Spectator has listed it as one of the world's top fifty wine values. Every year new French, American and European oak is added, and the costly, painstaking work of barrel fermentation continues - a Waterbrook tradition in Chardonnay.
New Winery Plans
This sketch of our new production facilities in Walla Walla represents a major step forward in Waterbrook's story. The new winery will be complete with Visitor's Center, Tasting Room and a Production Viewing Mezzanine.
