Chateau Ste. Michelle: A Woodinville Icon
No visit to Woodinville is complete without a stop at Chateau Ste. Michelle.
As Washington’s oldest winery, Chateau Ste. Michelle is not just a tasting destination—it’s the cornerstone of the region’s wine legacy.
The History of Chateau Ste. Michelle
The Chateau’s roots trace back to 1954, when the National Wine Company and Pomerelle Wine Company joined forces as Ste. Michelle Vintners. The estate we know today sits on the historic Hollywood Farm, once the weekend retreat of lumber baron Frederick Stimson. In 1976, the winery acquired the French-style chateau and its sweeping, landscaped gardens—an elegant and timeless backdrop that feels worlds apart from most Woodinville tasting rooms.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the estate helped inspire the flourishing wine community in the area and remains a symbol of Washington winemaking heritage.
A Setting Like No Other at Chateau Ste. Michelle
From the moment you arrive, a sense of grace and scale surrounds you. Unlike the modern tasting rooms dotting Woodinville, Chateau Ste. Michelle wraps visitors in sweeping lawns, manicured gardens, and classic architecture. We enjoyed our tasting on the gorgeous patio, soaking in dappled light, vineyard views, and the hushed elegance of the estate.
Beyond the tasting room, a tour of the estate offers a deeper peek into its history and winemaking philosophy. And if you’re looking to elevate the experience even further, the winery offers a range of tasting options and curated wine experiences to suit every palate and pace.
Music Under the Stars
Since 1984, the Summer Concert Series has sparked magic under the night sky. This year’s lineup continues that legendary tradition, featuring:
- Counting Crows: The Complete Sweets! Tour with special guest The Gaslight Anthem (Aug 17)
- Blues Traveler / Gin Blossoms with Spin Doctors (Aug 22)
- The Beach Boys (Aug 28)
- Chicago (Aug 29–30)
Imagine savoring a glass of wine under an endless sky while harmonic voices and familiar melodies drift through the air—it’s an experience that stays with you.
The Tasting Experience
I visited Chateau Ste. Michelle with my friend Tracy, and together we enjoyed a thoughtfully curated lineup that showcased the estate’s range, from crisp whites to rich reds and indulgent dessert wine:
- 2023 LeRosé – Bright, playful, and bursting with summer fruit.
- 2024 Limited Release Midsummer’s White – A new aromatic gem fitting right into the “limited release” category—light, fresh, and ephemeral in the best way.
- 2022 Jonté Sauvignon Blanc – Elegant with vibrant acidity and mineral depth.
- 2017 Wahluke Slope Syrah – Bold and structured, brimming with blackberry, spice, and savory tannins.
- 2019 Eroica Ice Wine – A luscious finale—honeyed apricot sweetness balanced by crisp acidity.
The “Limited Release” wines like the Midsummer’s White reflect Chateau Ste. Michelle’s occasional special bottlings—wines made in smaller quantities, meant to surprise and delight.
Tracy and I paired our tasting with the Summer Burrata Board—creamy burrata drizzled with pesto and balsamic glaze, prosciutto, roasted tomatoes, ripe peaches, cherries, and crostini. It was a pairing full of flavor, texture, and feel-good summer vibes.
Why Chateau Ste. Michelle Stands Apart
Chateau Ste. Michelle isn’t just one winery in Woodinville—it’s a destination. Its blend of historic elegance, exceptional wine (especially the limited releases), serene outdoor ambiance, and star-studded concert series gives it an undeniable presence.
Whether you’re strolling the gardens, sipping on a rare bottling, or leaning back to enjoy a summer concert under the stars, this estate offers an elevated experience that stays with you.
If you’re planning your own trip, you can find more ideas in my Woodinville Wine Weekend guide—perfect for discovering even more places to sip, savor, and explore.
