Freehand Cellars in Wapato, WA was born out of the idea of providing a new option for lodging in the Yakima Valley. Business partners from Seattle, architect James DeSarno and property developer Eduardo Oliveira, took over the former Windy Point Winery property and redesigned the gorgeous tasting room.
“Winemaking, as with architecture, are our art forms,” says Karissa Brandhagen, partner and general manager. “Whether we are selecting grapes or sketching a new concept everything starts with our hands.” Each bottle label showcases a hand-drawn rendering of a noted architectural wonder, celebrating the founders’ influences.
With picturesque views as far as the eye can see, the tasting room design utilizes much of the influence from DeSarno and Oliveira’s architectural backgrounds. The airy space is cozy, with a large tasting bar, community table seating and couches separated by a standout fireplace. Adjacent to the tasting room are two Airbnb lodgings with valley views and private hot tubs.
The wines are true to form and crafted with Yakima Valley fruit that displays an authentic sense of place with every aroma and sip.
Visit the tasting room at 420 Windy Point Drive, Wapato. Check website for hours at www.freehandcellars.com.
Below are three releases we recently reviewed:
Freehand Cellars 2017 Reserve Cabernet Franc, $25
Editor’s Choice – Excellent, 88 pts.
Rich, with a supple texture wrapped around robust flavors of boysenberry, crème de cassis, and crushed black raspberry framed with Madagascar vanilla bean, cocoa, rosemary and pencil shavings that flow through the finish.
Freehand Cellars 2017 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, $28
Editor’s Choice – Excellent, 89 pts.
Fresh and approachable, with a fruity mix of blackberry, plum and currants that intermingle with leather, cocoa and tobacco spice. Seamlessly structure, ending with smooth tannins and a textural oak component.
Freehand Cellars 2018 Pinot Gris, $18
Editor’s Choice – Excellent, 88 pts.
Expressive aromas of honeysuckle, pink grapefruit, straw and chalky dust combine effortlessly on the snappy palate with pear, green melon and gooseberry flavors that round out the clean, fruity finish.