Eastern Washington’s Walla Walla Valley is a viticultural gem, renowned for its diverse landscape and an impressive collection of over 100 wineries. These wineries are thoughtfully distributed across four distinct sub-regions within the Walla Walla AVA: Downtown/North, West, East, and South, each contributing unique characteristics to the region’s acclaimed wines. Among these pioneers, Pepper Bridge Winery stands out as one of the venerable founding establishments that helped shape Walla Walla’s prestigious winemaking legacy. Join us as we delve into the heart of this iconic winery, discovering its rich history, innovative practices, and exceptional Bordeaux-style wines.
While esteemed wine regions across the globe boast centuries of winemaking tradition, Walla Walla, Washington, remains a relatively young contender on the world stage. Even when compared to the established winemaking powerhouses along the West Coast, Walla Walla is an infant, yet one with remarkable potential. Despite its youth, the region’s incredibly diverse appellation and unique terroir have rapidly propelled it into global recognition. Walla Walla consistently produces world-class wines that are quickly captivating the palates of wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. This burgeoning reputation is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and passion of its winemakers, particularly those like Pepper Bridge Winery, who have been instrumental in putting Walla Walla on the international wine map.
During a memorable girls’ weekend wine getaway to Walla Walla, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting Pepper Bridge Winery. As one of the pioneering wineries of the illustrious Walla Walla Valley AVA, it offered an incredibly insightful and enlightening experience. It was a journey into the heart of quality winemaking, providing a deeper understanding of the meticulous processes and passionate individuals behind some of Washington’s finest wines. I am thrilled to share the highlights of this extraordinary visit, hoping to convey the essence of what makes Pepper Bridge Winery a must-visit destination in Washington Wine Country.
Pepper Bridge Winery: A Foundation of Excellence in Walla Walla
Pepper Bridge Winery, like many celebrated vintners, operates as a family business. However, what sets this particular enterprise apart is its unique ownership structure: it is jointly owned and passionately managed by not one, but three distinct families – the McKibbon, Goff, and Pellet families. This collaborative spirit, uniting diverse perspectives and shared dedication, forms the cornerstone of Pepper Bridge’s enduring success.
The winery was initially launched in 1998 by Norm McKibbon, a visionary figure widely recognized as one of the “Founding Fathers” of the Walla Walla wine industry. His foresight and commitment laid the groundwork for what would become a benchmark for quality in the region. Today, two generations of these families are actively involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that the winery’s foundational principles and innovative spirit continue to thrive. Pepper Bridge Winery distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on estate-grown Bordeaux-style wines. This commitment means every grape used in their winemaking process is cultivated on their own vineyards, allowing for unparalleled control over quality from vine to bottle. It is a testament to their dedication that Pepper Bridge is one of only a handful of wineries in the entire state of Washington that proudly produces 100 percent estate-grown wines. Furthermore, their vineyards are meticulously managed under Certified Sustainable and Salmon Safe practices, underscoring their profound respect for the environment and a commitment to ecological stewardship. These certifications are not merely labels; they reflect a holistic approach to viticulture that prioritizes the health of the land, local ecosystems, and the long-term viability of their agricultural practices.
The distinguished reputation of Pepper Bridge Winery is further solidified by significant accolades. In 2015, the winery was the proud recipient of two highly prestigious Washington Wine Awards, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the state’s vibrant wine scene.
One of the most notable honors went to Pepper Bridge Winery’s winemaker and partner, Jean-Francois Pellet. A third-generation Swiss winemaker with a profound legacy in viticulture, Pellet (pictured above) was deservedly named the 2015 Winemaker of the Year. Beyond his exceptional skill and heritage, Jean-Francois is known for his incredibly affable personality, combined with an intense passion and meticulous attention to detail in his craft – a dedication that unmistakably shines through in every bottle of Pepper Bridge wine. His European roots bring a nuanced perspective to Washington winemaking, blending Old World traditions with New World innovation.
The second coveted Washington Wine Award of 2015 was bestowed upon Les Collines Vineyard, which earned the esteemed title of 2015 Vineyard of the Year. This particular vineyard is a collaborative venture, representing a partnership between Norm McKibben, other key family members, and Michael Murr, the owner of Garrison Creek Cellars. Les Collines is celebrated for its unique elevation, varied soil types, and favorable microclimate, which collectively contribute to producing grapes of exceptional quality and character. Recalling my previous experiences, the 2013 Va Piano Les Collines Syrah was one of the standout wines of my Walla Walla trip, a testament to the superior fruit nurtured by this award-winning vineyard. The recognition of Les Collines underscores Pepper Bridge’s commitment to sourcing and cultivating the finest grapes, a crucial element in crafting their highly regarded estate wines.
An Immersive Winery Tour: Discovering the Art and Science of Winemaking
Our journey at Pepper Bridge Winery commenced with a visit to their inviting tasting room, strategically located adjacent to the state-of-the-art winemaking facility. The ambiance of the tasting room is immediately captivating, adorned with vibrant Tuscan-yellow hues that evoke a sense of Mediterranean warmth, complemented by rich wood and supple leather accents. This harmonious design creates an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort, perfect for savoring exquisite wines. The tasting room welcomes guests daily from 10 am to 4 pm, offering flexibility for both planned visits and spontaneous drop-ins. While reservations are not strictly necessary for smaller parties, a courtesy call ahead is always appreciated for larger groups to ensure a seamless experience.
Guests have the delightful option of enjoying their wine on the spacious outdoor deck, where panoramic views of the meticulously cultivated vineyards gently ascend towards the majestic Blue Mountains. This picturesque setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for leisurely sipping. Alternatively, for those who prefer the cozy interior, plush couches and comfortable armchairs offer an intimate space to unwind and engage with the wines.
Our immersive tour and tasting experience were graciously hosted by Jennifer Clapp, the winery’s Director of Sales. Jennifer is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to wine; her passion and expertise are so profound that one could happily listen to her expound on viticulture and oenology all day. Her impressive credentials include being a current member of the esteemed Guild of Sommeliers, having successfully completed the Certified Level for the Master Court of Sommeliers, and actively working towards her Advanced Level Certification. Her insights provide an invaluable dimension to the tasting experience, elevating it from a simple sampling to a truly educational journey.
After sharing the fascinating history of Pepper Bridge Winery with us, while we savored a delightful Sauvignon Blanc on the sun-drenched deck, Jennifer led us into the winemaking facility. Here, we were fortunate enough to witness a remarkable piece of modern winemaking technology in action: the winery’s high-tech optical grape sorting machine. This cutting-edge equipment embodies Pepper Bridge’s commitment to precision and quality.
In essence, this sophisticated optical sorting machine revolutionizes the initial stage of winemaking by allowing the winery to precisely specify attributes such as the size, shape, and color of grapes to be sorted. It works with incredible accuracy, ensuring that only the most perfect fruit proceeds to fermentation, thereby enhancing the overall quality and consistency of the wine. This technology is analogous to advanced sorting machines utilized in other agricultural industries, such as fruit processing facilities, reminiscent of those found at Oregon Fruit Products. While there is an ongoing industry debate regarding the ultimate effectiveness and impact of these machines on wine character, their presence at Pepper Bridge underscores a dedication to leveraging technological advancements for optimal quality control. The pursuit of perfection, even through such debates, highlights the dynamic evolution of modern winemaking.
Back to the tour, which seamlessly transitioned from technology to tradition!
Following our encounter with the optical sorter, we proceeded through the winery’s impressive gravity-flow facility. This “zero-gravity” system, as it’s sometimes colloquially termed, is a crucial design element that allows wine to be moved gently using gravity, minimizing the need for pumps. This gentle handling reduces oxidation and preserves the delicate flavors and aromas of the grape juice, resulting in wines of greater purity and expression. From there, we entered the majestic barrel rooms, often the most breathtaking and evocative part of any winery tour.
One by one, row by row, aisle by aisle, these silent, wooden vessels stand as sentinels of time and transformation. Each barrel holds within it not just wine, but a narrative – stories that wine lovers will eventually decipher, interpret, or, regrettably, sometimes overlook in their hasty consumption. Regardless of how glamorously the final product is packaged and presented, winemaking, at its core, remains an intricate form of agriculture. What we ultimately pour into our glasses is the culmination of countless hours of diligent labor, where scientific rigor meets the hopeful anticipation of nature’s bounty. It’s a journey often fraught with challenges, where perseverance triumphs over heartbreak, and where a profound love for the land and its fruits is poured into every drop.
For me, the sight of a barrel room never fails to stir a deep emotional response. It’s akin to stepping into a peaceful nursery, filled with slumbering infants, each barrel whispering promises of future delights, enticing you to experience their unique character. This profound sense of quiet reverence is a personal indulgence, though perhaps a tad unconventional during a lively group wine tour. Thus, we respectfully move on, leaving the wines to continue their silent, magical maturation.
Elevating the Palate: The Exclusive Food and Wine Pairing Class
Adjacent to the barrel rooms, hidden beneath the winery, lies the exquisite underground library room. This beautifully designed, dimly lit sanctuary is the exclusive venue for Pepper Bridge Winery’s new Private Tours and Tastings, as well as their highly sought-after Food and Wine Pairing Classes. The room itself is a treasure, enveloped by shelves brimming with an impressive collection of library wines, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and richly historic.
The Food and Wine Pairing Class offers a captivating 90-minute journey into the art of culinary harmony. Priced at $50 per person, or $40 for Club Members, it represents an exceptional value for an experience that educates and delights the senses. The culinary experience is masterfully curated by Chef Jake Crenshaw of Olive Catering, a name familiar from his excellent catering at Va Piano Vineyards. Chef Crenshaw’s menu is a dynamic exploration of seasonality, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that evolve throughout the year. His aim is to provide guests with a profound understanding of how the intricate aromas, nuanced flavors, and distinct tasting profiles of Pepper Bridge Winery’s estate wines interact with and are elevated by thoughtfully prepared food.
Here’s a glimpse into the exquisite pairings that were in season during our enlightening visit:
First Pairing: Humboldt Fog Cheese with Dates and Rosemary Sprig, paired exquisitely with the 2012 Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot ($50). This pairing was a revelation. The creamy, tangy notes of the Humboldt Fog, with its distinctive ribbon of ash, found a beautiful counterpoint in the sweetness of the dates and the aromatic hint of rosemary. The 2012 Merlot, with its surprising depth and structure, enveloped these flavors, creating a harmonious and complex initial experience.
Second Pairing: Cold Smoked Salmon (as shown in the trio picture above) with basil infused oil, crème fraîche, and a delicate house cracker, accompanied by a 2012 Pepper Bridge Winery Trine ($65). The delicate smokiness of the salmon, brightened by the basil oil and the creamy crème fraîche, was perfectly balanced by the sophisticated profile of the Trine. This blend demonstrated how a robust red can elegantly complement lighter, yet flavorful, dishes, enhancing rather than overpowering.
Third Pairing: Olympia Provisions Pork Rillette (I was genuinely thrilled to see this exceptional Oregon-based company featured on the menu!) with a luscious blackberry compote and a fresh fig, expertly matched with a 2012 Pepper Bridge Winery Cabernet Sauvignon ($60). The rich, savory texture of the pork rillette, a true gourmet delight, was beautifully contrasted by the tart sweetness of the blackberry compote and the earthy freshness of the fig. The bold, structured Cabernet Sauvignon stood up to these intense flavors, providing a robust backbone that enhanced the entire culinary arrangement.
I was particularly impressed by both the 2012 Merlot and the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon. The Merlot, in particular, presented with a surprising structure and complexity, drinking much like a Cabernet, which likely contributed to my deep appreciation, as I am not typically a fervent admirer of most Pacific Northwest Merlots. This particular vintage of Merlot, a true standout, was awarded an impressive 91 points by both Wine & Spirits and Wine Advocate. It is a truly captivating wine, a sultry siren that seduces with a complex symphony of flavors, initially revealing rich notes of coffee, gracefully transitioning to luscious blackberries, and culminating in hints of ripe blueberries. Its depth and elegance defy typical expectations for the varietal.
The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, the undisputed flagship wine of Pepper Bridge Winery, proved to be an equally magnificent experience. Given the exceptional vintage, this wine bursts with the vibrant essence of summer berries, intertwined with decadent rich chocolate, an intriguing medley of spices, and subtle herbaceous undertones. It culminates in an incredibly smooth, velvety finish that lingers on the palate, a true testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and the exceptional terroir of Walla Walla. These wines exemplify Pepper Bridge’s mastery in crafting Bordeaux-style wines that not only honor tradition but also capture the unique spirit of their Washington home.
Plan Your Unforgettable Visit to Pepper Bridge Winery
My friends and I unanimously cherished our time at Pepper Bridge Winery. If your travels bring you to the enchanting Walla Walla Wine Country, I wholeheartedly recommend making a stop at this distinguished establishment. Visiting at least one of the founding wineries in any given region offers invaluable insight into the historical evolution of its winemaking industry. It provides a deeper understanding of the pioneering spirit and the enduring passion that drives the people dedicated to their craft in that particular area. Beyond its historical significance, Pepper Bridge is undeniably a gorgeous winery, boasting architectural beauty, stunning vineyard views, and, most importantly, producing a robust collection of hearty, complex Bordeaux-style wines that are sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
Pepper Bridge Winery Contact & Visit Information:
1704 J.B. George Road
Walla Walla WA 99362
Tasting Room Hours: 10 am to 4 pm daily
Tasting Fee: $10 per person, fully refundable with any wine purchase
Private Tour & Tasting: $20 per person ($16 per Club Member) – This offers a more personalized and in-depth exploration.
Food & Wine Pairing: $50 per person ($40 per Club Member) – An educational and sensory delight, as detailed above.
For the most current tour hours, special events, and detailed information, it is always advisable to consult the Pepper Bridge Winery website directly.
Engage with Us: Have you ever participated in a food and wine pairing class? If so, what aspect did you find most enjoyable or enlightening? If not, is this an experience you would consider trying in the future? Share your thoughts!
Explore More Walla Walla Wine Country Adventures
- Best Things To Do in Walla Walla, Washington
- Discover Waterbrook Winery in Walla Walla, Washington
- A Visit to Va Piano Winery in Walla Walla, Washington
Heartfelt thanks are extended to Pepper Bridge Winery for providing the complimentary food and wine pairing class, which enriched this experience. As always, all opinions and accompanying photographs presented in this article are entirely my own. I am committed to featuring only those places and products that I genuinely enjoy and believe will resonate equally with my esteemed readers.