William G.
Yelp
The Lake Chelan area and nearby Manson are home to about three dozen wineries, located on either the north or south shores of the lake. Which is awesome, they make some great wines, and often have fabulous views. However, in Chelan itself, there are two (2) tasting rooms. One is called One, because they make one red, one white and one rose'. I've heard they are good.
However, when you have an hour or two to kill until your condo is ready, you may be looking for something with a bit more to offer, so Rocky Pond is the place to go. The tasting room is large, with great seating options. We chose to sit at the outdoor area as we tasted and planned our upcoming excursions. They offer several whites, a rose' and two reds. Our favorite white was the Viognier, really nice and tasty, great mouth-feel, good balance of fruit and acid.
On to the reds! The Mourvèdre was very light-bodied, but packed a punch of white pepper and fruit. A nice summer sipper when you want a red, and it would be great with BBQ Chicken. Then the Syrah. I'm typically not a huge fan of Washington Syrahs - just my fussy palate - but this was a nice representation. Medium bodied, but intense fruit flavor that packs a punch! Perfect peppery notes, nice mouthfeel, decent finish.
Ah, but then the hostess brings out a bottle not on the menu - a 2016 La Domestique; 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Malbec. Yes! This is what I came to Chelan looking for! Generous fruit, layers on layers. A finish that doesn't know when to quit. And through The end of September 2019, that and a bottle of the Viognier is only $49 (and the tasting fee was waived). My recommendation? Get over here now, and give Chelan- and Rocky Pond - a try.