Celebrating the Women Winemakers of Walla Walla
The Walla Walla Valley is a hub of innovation, and the women behind its world-class wineries are leading the charge. These winemakers are not only creating outstanding wines but also changing the face of the wine industry with their creativity, sustainability, and passion. From small-lot production to bold, innovative blends, the women in Walla Walla are making their mark — and they are just getting started. Let's dive into the stories of some of these incredible women who are shaping the future of Walla Walla wines.
Mary at Dama Wines 
Mary Derby, the founder and winemaker behind Dama Wines, made the leap from corporate law to the world of winemaking, and her wines are a reflection of that bold decision. Dama Wines is known for its elegant, sustainably produced wines that capture the unique terroir of Walla Walla. Mary’s commitment to minimal intervention in the cellar, combined with her focus on quality and sustainability, has helped establish Dama as one of the region’s standout wineries.
Susan & Liesel at Sulei Wines
Sulei Wines, founded by Susan and Liesel, is a partnership that emphasizes sustainability and hands-on winemaking. Their approach combines respect for the land with a dedication to producing wines that express the full potential of the Walla Walla Valley. Their small-lot production methods and minimal intervention philosophy result in wines that are both refined and expressive, making them a rising star in the Walla Walla wine scene.
Devyani at Valdemar Estates 
Devyani Gupta, winemaker at Valdemar Estates, has made a name for herself with her focus on Spanish varietals and her ability to blend Old World winemaking techniques with Walla Walla’s unique climate. Her wines are known for their vibrancy and complexity, and she continues to push the envelope in crafting wines that reflect both the region and her global winemaking expertise.
Tobi at Ducleaux Cellars 
At Ducleaux Cellars, Tobi creates wines that are as bold as her innovative approach to winemaking. Tobi specializes in blends, crafting wines that are balanced, complex, and full of character. Her passion for experimentation and her deep understanding of Walla Walla’s terroir results in wines that speak to both the land and the winemaker’s creative vision.
Fiona at SMAK Wines 
Fiona Mak, the winemaker behind SMAK Wines, brings an artisanal approach to winemaking that focuses on small-batch production and sustainable practices. With her meticulous attention to detail in both the vineyard and the cellar, Fiona has become known for wines that are expressive, elegant, and approachable. Her passion for her craft and her ability to craft wines that highlight the terroir of Walla Walla make SMAK Wines a must-try for wine lovers.
Jordan at Woodward Canyon 
Jordan Small is the winemaker at Woodward Canyon, one of the region’s most established wineries. With a background in both viticulture and winemaking, Jordan brings expertise and precision to every bottle she creates. Her focus on producing wines with balance and elegance, while respecting the land, has earned her a place among Walla Walla’s top winemakers. Woodward Canyon’s continued success speaks to Jordan’s dedication to quality and her thoughtful approach to winemaking.
Elisabeth at Rata Vineyards 
At Rata Vineyards, Elisabeth Bourcier is the winemaker behind wines that are celebrated for their balance and expressive character. Elisabeth’s commitment to organic farming and her hands-on approach to winemaking ensure that Rata’s wines are a true reflection of the Walla Walla terroir. With a deep respect for the land and a creative vision in the cellar, Elisabeth is creating wines that stand out in the region.
Kelly at Aluve Wine 
Kelly Menozzi, the winemaker at Aluve Wine, brings a fresh perspective to the Walla Walla wine scene with her focus on unique, small-batch wines. Aluve Wine showcases Kelly’s ability to craft wines that are both elegant and expressive, with an emphasis on varietals that thrive in the Walla Walla Valley. Kelly’s commitment to sustainable practices and her innovative approach to winemaking make Aluve Wine a standout in the region.
Brooke at Delmas Wines 
At Delmas Wines, Brooke is crafting wines that reflect her passion for both the land and the art of winemaking. With a focus on small-lot production and a minimalist approach in the cellar, Delmas produces wines that are rich in character and complexity. Brooke’s commitment to creating wines that showcase the unique qualities of Walla Walla’s terroir has earned Delmas a reputation for excellence in the region.
Kelsey at Itä Winery 
Kelsey Albro Itä, winemaker at Itä Winery in Walla Walla, brings a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the local winemaking scene. Known for her unique focus on European-inspired, small-batch wines, Kelsey combines traditional techniques with an adventurous spirit, often experimenting with varieties and blends uncommon in the region. Her vineyard management reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, as she prioritizes organic and regenerative farming practices to enhance soil health and grape quality. Kelsey's wines are celebrated for their elegance and complexity, often characterized by subtle earthiness, balanced acidity, and distinct varietal expressions that set them apart in the Walla Walla Valley.
Karin at Bionic Wines 
The iconic Cayuse Vineyards, known for its exceptional wines and unique terroir, has recently promoted Karin Gasparotti to be Resident Vigneronne of Bionic Wines. This exciting development promises to bring a fresh perspective to Cayuse’s already impressive portfolio, further cementing the winery’s place at the top of the Walla Walla wine scene.
Sally at The Walls Vineyards 
Sally Johnson-Bloom, the talented winemaker at The Walls winery, brings a wealth of experience and a meticulous approach to crafting elegant, expressive wines. Sally spent over a decade as the winemaker at Pride Mountain Vineyards in Napa Valley, earning acclaim for her bold yet balanced style. At The Walls, she continues to push boundaries, focusing on site-driven wines that capture the essence of Walla Walla’s diverse terroir. With a passion for precision and a deep respect for the vineyard, Sally’s wines reflect both technical expertise and artistic intuition, making her a standout among Walla Walla’s women winemakers.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Women Winemakers in Walla Walla
The future of Walla Walla wine is brighter than ever, thanks in large part to the remarkable women who are leading the way. These winemakers are not only producing exceptional wines but also changing the industry and inspiring future generations of women to follow in their footsteps. As the Walla Walla wine scene continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that women will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping its future.