Exploring Gilbert Cellars: A Family Legacy in Yakima Valley Wine

Tucked away in the heart of Yakima Valley, Washington, lies a winery that embodies the spirit of family, tradition, and exceptional winemaking: Gilbert Cellars. Unlike some of the larger, more commercially-driven wineries, Gilbert Cellars operates with a distinct focus on quality over quantity. As a family-owned and operated establishment, they dedicate themselves to producing wines in smaller batches, often around 300 cases per varietal. This allows for meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to showcasing the unique characteristics of the Yakima Valley terroir. What’s even more appealing is that most of their wines are priced accessibly, making them a fantastic value for wine enthusiasts.

Gilbert Cellars Yakima Valley Wine — Gilbert Cellars offers a taste of Yakima Valley’s finest.

My recent Yakima Craft Beverage Tour led me to Gilbert Cellars, following a delightful visit to AntoLin Cellars. While AntoLin Cellars had already impressed me, my experience at Gilbert Cellars solidified my deep appreciation for the quality and diversity of Yakima Valley wines. The passion and dedication of the Gilbert family are evident in every bottle, making it a truly memorable wine tasting experience.

Wine Toast at Gilbert Cellars — Raising a glass to exceptional wines at Gilbert Cellars.

The Story Behind Gilbert Cellars

Gilbert Cellars Wine Selection — Explore the diverse selection of Gilbert Cellars wines.

The Gilbert family’s connection to Yakima Valley dates back to 1897, marking a legacy of agricultural excellence. Like many who settled in this fertile region, the Gilberts initially cultivated orchards of apples, pears, and peaches. Over time, they became deeply involved in the local community, a tradition that continues to this day. Curtis Richard Gilbert, a passionate outdoorsman and hiker, left a lasting impact on the region, so much so that Gilbert Peak in Washington State’s Goat Rocks Wilderness was named in his honor after his passing.

The family’s foray into the world of wine began in 2002 with the purchase of the Doc Stewart Vineyard in the Wahluke Slope AVA (American Viticultural Area). Gilbert Cellars was officially established in 2004 and is currently managed through a partnership of several Gilbert family members, ensuring that the winery remains true to its core values and traditions.

Inside Gilbert Cellars Winery — A glimpse inside the welcoming atmosphere of Gilbert Cellars.

A Taste of Terroir: Exploring the Wines of Gilbert Cellars

Gilbert Cellars Red Wine — Indulge in the rich flavors of Gilbert Cellars red wines.

Approximately 70% of the grapes used in Gilbert Cellars wines are sourced from the family’s own vineyards, located in the esteemed growing regions of Horse Heaven Hills, Wahluke Slope, and the broader Columbia Valley. This provides winemaker Justin Neufeld with exceptional control over the quality of the grapes, from vine to bottle. Justin, with his background in molecular biology, possesses a unique understanding of the intricate processes involved in winemaking. His passion and talent shine through in every wine, as he masterfully coaxes out the inherent qualities of each varietal. He is undoubtedly one of the most talented and innovative winemakers to watch in Washington State.

Wine Tasting at Gilbert Cellars — Enjoy a curated wine tasting experience at Gilbert Cellars.

The Gilbert Cellars wine portfolio is remarkably diverse, offering something to suit every palate. From crisp, refreshing white wines like oak-aged and stainless steel Chardonnay, Riesling, and Gewurztraminer, to robust and complex red wines such as Malbec, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the selection is impressive. They also produce a unique Rhone-style blend known as Allobroges, which showcases the winemaker’s skill in blending different varietals to create a harmonious and flavorful wine.

Gilbert Cellars Rosé Wine — Savor the delicate flavors of Gilbert Cellars Rosé.

Among the many excellent wines produced by Gilbert Cellars, two stand out as personal favorites: the 2015 Wahluke Slope Rosé and the 2013 Left Bank red wine.

The 2015 Wahluke Slope Rosé, crafted from 78% Mourvéde grapes, is a delightful expression of dry rosé. It boasts a crisp acidity and is infused with lovely floral aromas and subtle fruit flavors. This rosé is so exceptional that it earned a place on my list of Best Rosé Wines for National Drink Rosé Day.

In contrast, the 2013 Left Bank is a Bordeaux-style blend that resides on the opposite end of the wine spectrum. This luscious, complex, and romantic wine is a true delight for the senses. While it’s classified as a medium-bodied wine, it delivers a smooth and full finish that lingers on the palate. The Left Bank is perfect for sipping slowly on its own, allowing you to savor each nuanced note. It also pairs beautifully with rich dishes like Rack of Lamb with Blackberry Balsamic Sauce or ribs slathered in a cherry cola barbecue sauce.

The Gilbert Cellars Tasting Room Experience

Gilbert Cellars Tasting Room Interior — Experience the modern elegance of Gilbert Cellars’ tasting room.

The Gilbert Cellars downtown tasting room, established in 2008, offers a bright and inviting space to explore their wines. The modern aesthetic is particularly appealing, with a striking contrast between the warm wood elements and the sleek metal finishes. Trendy bar stools and bold black and white artwork add to the contemporary ambiance. A captivating triptych of Gilbert’s Peak, prominently displayed behind the bar, serves as a stunning focal point.

Visitors can indulge in a curated tasting experience, sampling five 1-ounce pours for a nominal fee. What’s even better is that the tasting fee is refunded with a bottle purchase, making it an excellent value. If you’re feeling peckish, you can also enjoy one of their gourmet cheese plates, perfectly complementing the wines on offer.

Gilbert Cellars Wine Bottles — Bring home a taste of Yakima Valley with Gilbert Cellars wines.

Plan Your Visit to Gilbert Cellars

If you’re planning a trip to Yakima Valley, a visit to Gilbert Cellars is an absolute must. Here’s what you need to know:

Address: 5 N Front St., Yakima, WA 98901

Phone: 509-249-9049

Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 1:00pm – 7:00pm
Friday & Saturday: 1:00pm – 9:00pm (open til 10pm on First Fridays)
Sunday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm

Website: https://www.gilbertcellars.com

Explore More Washington Wine Experiences

Looking to discover more of Washington State’s exceptional wine scene? Here are a few suggestions:

Browne Family Vineyards in Walla Walla, Washington
Seattle Wine and Food Experience Grand Tasting
Seattle Wine & Food Experience POP! Bubbles & Seafood
Waterbrook Winery in Walla Walla, Washington
Tri-Cities, Washington Wine Country

A special thank you to the Yakima Craft Beverage Tour, Gilbert Cellars, and Jamie Peha for the complimentary wine tasting. As always, the opinions and photos shared here are my own. I enjoyed the experience so much that I purchased bottles of the Rosé and Left Bank to take home!