Claar Cellars
Few of us will be lucky enough to visit the Claar Cellars winery and vineyard, located in the White Bluffs area of the Columbia Valley Appellation. It’s certainly off the beaten path. However, getting to the Claar Cellars tasting room is easy: Take Exit 52 off I-82 and you are practically there. A huge, puncheon-sized barrel, with Claar Cellars’ distinctive red-lion logo embossed on its side, stands in front of the Zillah tasting room. Bob and Crista Claar Whitelatch have been farming in the White Bluffs area for more than 20 years. Early on, they found a market for their prized grapes, and in 1997, took the plunge and began crushing their own grapes, starting out in a 10,000-square-foot facility. Over time, the couple has gradually expanded the winemaking facility, hired an experienced winemaker, and been awarded a boatload of gold, silver and bronze hardware.
French-born Bruno Corneaux grew up in a wine-making family; it’s certainly in his blood. After years of training, internships, and experience in many countries, learning various techniques and honing his abilities, Bruno took up the winemaking duties for Claar Cellars in early 2000. He’s charged with converting the White Bluffs produce into excellent riesling, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, sangiovese, and other wines. One particular red blend of note is called “Corneauxcopia” (of course).
John Claar Whitelatch manages the attractive tasting room and has an extensive knowledge of Claar Cellars’ history and winemaking techniques. He should—he’s Bob and Crista’s son. With friendly aplomb and bottle in hand, John fields visitor questions and keeps the samples coming. Depending on availability, all Claar Cellars estate wines are available for tasting. If it’s not sold out, check out the “Corneauxcopia” and experience why this wine has taken home the gold at prestigious wine-tasting events. Claar Cellars is an active member of the Rattlesnake Hills Winery Association and participates in its events throughout the year. If the tasting-room parking lot is nearly full when you arrive, you know that you’ve timed your visit with an event weekend. No worries! John and his staff efficiently handle the crowd.
-
Order the book!
Claar Cellars was featured in WineTrails of Washington as part of the Rattlesnake Hills WineTrail South on page 308!
