The Inspired Intermedia digital book collection
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3 The Bunnell Family Cellar PROSSER The art of small-lot winemaking is not lost on the team at the Bunnell Family Cellar. Since their first vintage in 2004, the family has made all wines themselves, in one-ton fermentation bins, using a gentle, manual punch- down method. Every decision—from pick, to press, to blending—is made by winemaker Ron Bunnell and his wife and culinary partner, Susan Bunnell. Their philosophy is that nothing replaces the human palate. Lab analysis is important, but it should never supplant the winemaker's personal sensory evaluation, knowledge , and understanding. A career spanning 35 years has shown Ron the importance of being a good steward of the wine and letting it speak for itself. At their home on the banks of the Yakima River, the Bunnells craft a wide range of small-lot varietal wines and blends. More than two dozen current releases include five different vineyard designated Syrahs and four vineyard designated Cabernets. They regularly produce Grenache, Mourvedre, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Sangiovese, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer. Occasionally they craft micro- lots of less than 100 cases of varietals such as Petite Sirah, Counoise, Aglianico, Tempranillo, Dolcetto, and Aligote. Ron specializes in combining flavors, and believes strongly in the inherent advantages of blending. Synergy can be as serendipitous in winemaking as it is in life. Sample and savor the Bunnell Family's best at one of two locations: Wine o'Clock Wine Bar & Bistro or the Bunnell-Newhouse Tasting Studio. With fine wine and delicious food, the sum is so much greater than its parts. This perfect marriage is exemplified at Wine o'Clock Wine Bar & Bistro; a unique spot for civilized wining and dining. Guests explore wine flights for the best variety in FACING PAGE Spring at the Bunnell Family Prosser tasting room, Wine o'Clock. When the daffodils come out, al fresco enjoyment can't be far behind. Photograph by Susan Bunnell ABOVE LEFT: Danielle pouring wine for a wine club event at the tasting room in Woodinville,. Photograph by Susan Bunnell ABOVE RIGHT: Ron and Susan Bunnell with a dizzying array of current releases. Select from these, or peruse an extensive wine list going back to 2004. Photograph by Colby Kuschatka