Portteus Vineyards & Winery

Paul Portteus is many things to many people. Depending upon to whom you are talking, Paul is a husband, father, grape grower, winemaker, and mentor. However, one thing is certain: His name is held in high regard among industry people in the Yakima Valley and wine lovers throughout the Northwest region. As reported on Mike Lempriere’s “Guide to Washington Wineries” website (www.vintners.net), “Paul Portteus first started making beer at age 19 in his home on Mercer Island, having been exposed to an uncle who was a home winemaker/brewer. While majoring in philosophy at University of Washington, he took an extended tour of Europe by motorcycle, discovering the Bordeaux region.” It was from those early beginnings, and an extended visit in the Sonoma Valley, that he and his wife, Marilyn, launched Portteus Vineyards & Winery in 1981. They were the 13th bonded winery in Washington at the time.

At the Portteus tasting room, located about 7 miles from I-82, you will usually find Paul’s son Seth doing the pouring honors. An artist by background (one of his paintings can be viewed at the Paradisos del Sol tasting room), Seth engages WineTrail trekkers with his relaxed demeanor. He’s not out to sell you anything; he simply responds to frequent questions and makes sure your glass isn’t empty. As you work your way through the lineup of estate reds, you might be surprised when you encounter the Portteus zinfandel. In true pioneer fashion, Paul became the first grower to plant zinfandel in Washington. After you swirl and enjoy the peppery notes of this wine, you will understand why zin is Portteus’ number-one seller.

Paul championed for the designation of the Rattlesnake Hills American Viticulture Area and obtained the official federal AVA title in early 2006. It was not easy; many argued that Rattlesnake Hills’ terroir was no different than that of Yakima Valley. But if you have the guts to ride a motorcycle through Bordeaux in the’70s and later weather the vicissitudes of the grape industry economy, then dealing with Rattlesnake Hills AVA politics is minor. We know that Paul must have a lot of intestinal fortitude—how many winery proprietors do you know who would dress up in a wacky costume for their “Hallowine” event?

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  Portteus Vineyards & Winery was featured in WineTrails of Washington as part of the Rattlesnake Hills WineTrail North on page 304!