A Walla Walla Winery • 1999 - 2020s
Remembering a family ran winery that crafted elegant wines worthy of European heritage from Washington State's rich glacial soils
A story rooted in history, nurtured by passion
French traders named the gently flowing stream near what would become the winery "Petite Creek". By mid-century, pioneers had changed the name to "Patit Creek" (pronounced Pat-it), establishing the historical foundation for the winery's identity.
Patit Creek Cellars was established with a commitment to hand-crafting elegant wines worthy of their European heritage. The original Dayton, Washington winery began operations focused on Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, using only the finest grapes from select vines grown in Washington State's rich glacial soils.
The winery was acquired by new ownership, bringing fresh vision while maintaining the commitment to quality. At the time of acquisition, the winery was producing only Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, but plans for expansion were already taking shape.
A beautiful new 6,000 square-foot winery and tasting room opened in the Walla Walla Airport district. The facility featured a Tuscan-style interior inspired by the Italian countryside, with earthy tones and natural elements including wood, stone, and iron, creating a warm and inviting environment.
Crafted with balance between structure and grace
Their Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was renowned for carefully balanced savory and fruit profiles. Rich cassis, blackberry, and licorice with structured tannins showcased the unique terroir of the region.
Known for bold but polished tannins with aromas of black cherry and chocolate, complemented by undertones of dried herbs and a distinctive dark chocolate finish.
Their Sagemoor Vineyard Riesling featured honeysuckle on the nose with crisp acidity. They also crafted an authentic Ice Wine, with photographs of the snow storm during crush becoming legendary among visitors.
A complex five-varietal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, and Grenache. Known for black and blue berry notes, ripe black plums, old leather, and baking spices.
A sophisticated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. Celebrated for cassis, blackberry, and licorice notes with complex structure that pleased discerning palates.
From Ancient Lakes AVA, finished with partial new oak and malolactic fermentation, bringing out pineapple and mineral aromas with butterscotch and nutmeg on the palate.
Three distinctive locations that served wine enthusiasts
The heart of operations in the Airport district featured a 6,000 square-foot production facility. The Tuscan-style tasting room was designed with rustic elegance, featuring a fireplace for cozy tastings and an arbor-covered patio where visitors could relax with a glass of wine.
Remembered as a warm, inviting space where the winemaking magic happened
Located across from the historic Davenport Hotel, this location was renowned for wine and artisan cheese pairings. Featured a 9-foot cheese counter with the largest selection of artisan wheels in Spokane, live music on First and Third Fridays, and an expert cheesemonger.
Celebrated for creating the perfect marriage of wine and cheese
Housed in a charming converted historic home in the Hollywood Schoolhouse District. Offered traditional wine tastings, flexible event spaces, and a covered patio with entertainment. Walking distance to dozens of other wineries and restaurants.
A cozy gathering place that embodied their hospitality philosophy
The impact they left on Washington wine country
Patit Creek Cellars was remembered for wines that exhibited the unique terroirs of the region with restrained oak, providing bright acidity and true varietal characteristics from Washington's distinctive glacial soils.
Their commitment to creating comfortable wine tasting environments made them beloved by visitors. They focused on experiences to enjoy with family and friends, embodying the belief that wine should bring people together.
Pioneered the integration of artisan cheese pairings with wine tasting in the region, particularly at their Spokane location, where they maintained the largest selection of artisan cheeses and expert cheese mongering.
For over two decades, Patit Creek Cellars stood as a testament to the vision that wine should bring balance between structure and grace while exhibiting the unique character of Washington's wine country. From their humble beginnings in Dayton to their beautiful Walla Walla facility and beloved tasting rooms in Spokane and Woodinville, they created spaces where wine lovers could gather, learn, and celebrate.
Their legacy lives on in the memories of countless tastings, the wines still cherished in cellars, and the standard they set for hospitality and quality in the Walla Walla Valley. They reminded us that the true purpose of winemaking extends beyond the bottle—it lies in the connections formed and memories created when wine brings people together.
This archive attempts to preserve their story and honors their contribution to Washington State's wine heritage.