As many wineries in Walla Walla Browne Family Vineyards come with a story. The idea was inspired by William Bitner Browne, the late grandfather of proprietor Andrew Browne. It was a long-time dream that became a reality at the beginning of the 2000s.
The winemaking team is headed by talented winemaker John Freeman. After a dozen years at some of the leading Californian wineries, John moved to a new wine frontier, Washington, in 2002.
The grapes for Browne wines are sourced from the Estate Vineyard in the Spring Valley district of Walla Walla and throughout the Columbia Valley AVA.
One of the best parts is that Browne has tasting rooms in Seattle, Tacoma, and Walla Walla, so if you live in the Pacific Northwest or travel here, you can try the wines before you buy.
On our trip to Walla Walla, we had a chance to try six wines, including non-vintage sparkling, 2019 Tempranillo Rosé, and Bordeaux blends, which Browne is known for.
Year Founded: 2005
Winemaker: John Freeman
Wines: Sparkling, Rosé, White and Red single varietals and blends
Grapes: Chardonnay, Cabernet Frank, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Picpoul, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Savignon Blanc, Semillon, Syrah, Tempranillo
AVA: Walla Walla, Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Red Mountain
Notable Vineyards: Quintessence, Shaw, Browne Family Estate, Blue Mountain Vineyard, Klipsun Vineyard
Fun Facts: Andrew Browne launched Precept Wine in 2003. Seattle-based Precept Wine is the largest privately held wine producer in the Pacific Northwest and among the top 12 American wine producers. Precept produces wine under 25 labels, including Browne Family Vineyards, and is the fastest-growing wine company in the United States.
