Thurston Wolfe’s grape sourcing is based on Wade’s 40 years experience working with Washington State’s grape growers and vineyards. As the grape buyer first for Ste. Michelle in the 1980’s and later at Hogue Cellars in the 1990’s, he gained invaluable knowledge about the growing regions as well as the skill of the growers and quality of fruit. Using this knowledge he selected eight growers in two of Washington’s American Viticulture Areas (AVA’s), the Horse Heaven Hills and Yakima Valley, to plant specific varieties for Thurston Wolfe.
These vineyards are all located within 30 miles of the winery, allowing frequent visits throughout the growing season to monitor vine and fruit development. Five of the vineyards are located in the Horse Heaven Hills, including Zephyr Ridge, Destiny Ridge, Spice Cabinet, Double Canyon and McKinley Springs. Zephyr Ridge is source of 50% of our fruit, including Zinfandel, Primitivo, Petite Sirah and Viognier. Destiny Ridge, Double Canyon and McKinley Springs provide Bordeaux varieties and Spice Cabinet provides Grenache. The three vineyards in the Yakima Valley include Upland, Crawford and Lonesome Spring. These vineyards are sources for Cabernet Sauvignon, Albarino, Lemberger, Pinot gris, Orange Muscat and Touriga Nacional.