Icicle Ridge Winery

Most winery owners feel right at home in their wineries. But in the case of the Wagoners, the feeling is quite literal: Icicle Ridge Winery is their home. Not only do they live in it, but Louis Wagoner actually built the log-style home, along with much of the rustic furniture that graces the winery. Situated outside of Leavenworth, this jewel of a winery is a wonderful surprise for WineTrails trekkers. As you arrive, you are greeted by 40 acres of pear trees that are slowly giving way to a variety of Bordeaux varietals. No need to ring the front doorbell—visitors can come right in and enjoy wine tasting in the kitchen.

On the way in, please note the family photo featuring the Wagoners’ three daughters: They are an integral part of the winery, handling marketing, event coordinating, bottling, and myriad other jobs. The family created the art you see on the walls. You can circulate comfortably from living room to dining room to kitchen area with glass in hand while you sample premium wine. Icicle Ridge’s winemaker, Don Wood, is often assisting and can explain how he went from a chemical engineering job to become the chief winemaker at Icicle Ridge Winery. By the way, Don is married to one of the three blond daughters mentioned above. As Don noted, “This has been the greatest experience of my life.”

The family relies on estate-grown grapes as well as Columbia Valley grapes to produce a wide variety of white and red wines. As the pear trees give way to grape vines, don’t be surprised to see case production increase. However, the family’s goal is to remain a small winery devoted to the production of premium wines. For whites, check out the white riesling and the “Three Blondes” gewürztraminer. Among the reds, the syrah and “Romanze” were soft and fruity.

Icicle Ridge has gained a reputation for hosting a Icicle Ridge has gained a reputation for hosting a variety of outdoor events (see calendar for schedule).

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  Icicle Ridge Winery was featured in WineTrails of Washington as part of the Leavenworth-Peshastin WineTrail on page 210!