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Hamilton Cellars
BENTON CITY
When Stacie and Russ Hamilton began considering retirement, they realized
that, instead of golfing or fishing, their true passions laid in traveling and wine
tasting. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Stacie, a CPA, looked for ways to make both
travel and wine tasting tax deductible. The logical answer was, of course,
owning a winery, but it was just an idea for a time. It wasn't until the pair
watched the sunset over acres of vineyards from a balcony while on a wine
tour in 2005, that they realized their dream. It was such a beautiful moment
of serenity and connection for the pair that they looked at each other and at
the same time said, "Let's do this!" As long-time lovers of wine, Stacie and
Russ sought a winemaker whose style and palate reflected their own. Charlie
Hoppes had been the expert behind the Hamiltons' favorite wines for many
years, so when Hamilton Cellars became a reality, the pair was thrilled to add
Charlie to the team as winemaker.
A graduate of UC Davis, Charlie Hoppes spent more than 20 years as a
leading winemaker for several notable Washington wineries, including
Chateau Ste. Michelle, where he helped craft the first two vintages of Col
Solare, the winery's premium label, as head red winemaker. In 1999, Charlie
helped found Three Rivers Winery in Walla Walla, and established his own
label, Fidelitas Wines in 2000. Charlie consults wineries across the region,
and the Hamiltons are proud to count him among their valued partners in
crafting truly exceptional wine.
FACING PAGE: The 10-acre vineyard and a portion of the
landscaping is viewed from the owner's deck at Hamilton
Cellars Estate.
ABOVE The front entrance to the tasting room and the
outdoor patio greets our guests at Hamilton Cellars.
Photograph by Stacie Hamilton
