Prosser, WA — Desert Wind Winery, an iconic winery destination in Prosser has been purchased by well-established Washington vineyard and winery families Tom and Tami Merkle and Josh and Lisa Lawrence from the Fries family who started the winery 20 years ago.
Desert Wind Winery was launched in 2001 to showcase the exceptional fruit grown at Desert Wind Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, which the Merkles, Lawrences, and other investors purchased together in 2020 from the Fries family. The purchase of Desert Wind Winery brings the project full circle to encompass grape growing and wine production under the Desert Wind name.
The Desert Wind facility in Prosser is perched on a bluff overlooking the Yakima River. The Southwest-inspired exterior features a tasting room, large event space, restaurant, spa, and overnight guest rooms as well as a crush pad and wine production facility. Desert Wind is perhaps best known for its flagship red blend, Ruah.
Winemaking at Desert Wind will be directed by Matías Kúsulas, a Chilean native who moved to Washington state in 2016 after making wine all over the world for several years. Kúsulas holds multiple degrees in enology and related fields, and also serves as viticulturist for Desert Wind Vineyard, Conner Lee Vineyard, and Lawrence Vineyards.
“We are excited to add Desert Wind Winery to our portfolio with the Lawrences,” said Tom Merkle. “The addition of the winery to our Desert Wind Vineyard property will continue to build on the long tradition of producing remarkable estate wines at Desert Wind Winery.”
“Desert Wind Winery is an unparalleled destination in the Yakima Valley, and we are excited to expand the offerings there with an even greater emphasis on food and wine pairings, private events, and lodging experiences,” said Josh Lawrence.
The Merkles and the Lawrences, along with business partners, are also proprietors of the legendary Conner Lee Vineyard in the Columbia Valley.
Desert Wind Winery is open seven days a week.