By Jillian Chandler
Natalie Barnes has been in the wine business her entire life. She fondly remembers climbing over cases in the warehouse and to the very top with her lunch and Barbies in tow. She would play all day amongst those cases. As time went on, she would help her parents, Mike and Ellena Conway, on the bottling line and during events. It wasn’t until college that Natalie’s passion for making wine would manifest.
“Right before our 2004 harvest, I told my dad I wanted to be a winemaker. For that 2004 vintage, he took the time to show me how different yeasts interact with the juice, what filtering actually does, and all the ins-and-outs of making wine. I immediately fell in love with the art of making wine and never looked back, and I have now been making wine for 20 years!”
During those first few years working alongside her parents, she realized the sacrifices her parents had made since starting Latah Creek Wine Cellars — Washington state’s 35th winery — in 1982, saying, “My eyes were opened to the full picture of Latah Creek, their philosophy, their love for wine and food, their commitment to the community. Not once have I regretted changing my mind.”
Today, you will find Natalie spending her days at the family business, alongside her father, creating wines for all to enjoy. “What makes us unique is that it is really just us; my dad and I are the only ones who do the winemaking. We are truly a family owned and operated winery,” shares Natalie. “I can’t imagine doing this job without him.”
Forty-two years and two generations later, Latah Creek Wine Cellars continues its commitment to producing award-winning wines at affordable prices for all to enjoy. “The most fulfilling thing about this job is seeing someone try a wine and loving it!” Natalie smiles. “Knowing that someone is somewhere enjoying one of the wines we made is amazing, wonderful and an absolute honor.”
When it comes to what the future holds, Natalie mentions that their guests may see some new varietals popping up over the next five to 10 years — “and maybe third-generation winemakers as my kids graduate college.”
Natalie is excited to share that earlier this year, Latah Creek released their new label in two varieties and have plans to have their whole lineup of labels released by fall.
Latah Creek Wine Cellars is open 9am to 5pm daily. Natalie, Mike and Ellena invite you to stop by their stunning tasting room and gift shop for a glass of wine (or wine flight) and taste the passion and dedication Latah Creek Wine Cellars pours into each glass. While there, you’ll want to take a moment to browse Ellena’s perfectly curated selection of specialty gifts and gourmet foods.
Be sure to follow Latah Creek Wine Cellars on Facebook and Instagram, and sign up to receive their newsletter, for up-to-date details on event happenings, including their 42nd anniversary party in July. Cheers! Latah Creek Wine Cellars 13030 E. Indiana Ave. Spokane, WA 509.926.0164 LatahCreek.com
