Spokane, WA

For those of you who didn’t know, Spokane is quickly becoming a force to reckon with in Washington’s growing wine industry. With 14 wineries scattered throughout the Spokane region, local vintners continue to produce award winning wine with a distinctly Washington flavor. Recently I visited Barrister Winery, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Spokane at1213 W. Railroad Ave, to try out one of the region’s premier wineries. Not only did I come away impressed by the wine, but by the winery itself and the wine making process as a whole.

Let me preface the rest of this article by saying, five months ago you wouldn’t have caught me dead anywhere near a winery. I had no interest whatsoever in what I thought was an activity for the rich and famous. Well, I was wrong. So a word from the wise, keep an open mind because you could be missing out on something great.Located in a newly renovated 100-year old brick building, Barrister oozes with atmosphere. With the interior of the building kept relatively the same, visitors are treated to exposed wood ceiling beams, rich wood floors andexposed brick walls.

The first floor functions as a tasting room, art gallery and wine production room, while the lower floor is the cellar. Tasting tables scattered throughout allow visitors to sit and sip to their hearts content. The winery also displays local artist’s wares during their frequent tasting events.Of course, the most important part of a winery is the wine and Barrister does not disappoint. Since opening in 2001 Barrister has won over twenty awards for the wines it produces from both national and international wine events. Though I haven’t tried them all, I’ve enjoyed every one I’ve tasted. Being a fan of red wines I would encourage you to try the 2004 Cabernet Franc, 2004 Merlot, Rough Justice and Poetic Justice. Attend a tasting event and sample for free or buy a bottle with prices ranging from $19-$25. Believe me when I say that these wines taste great! I also had the opportunity to take a tour of the winery (available upon request) courtesy of owner Greg Lipsker.

Never before I have become so interested in something so quickly! I encourage you to take the tour and learn about how truly interesting wine is. Try Barrister for a romantic glass of wine, a night out on the town with friends or reserve the barrel room for an intimately unique dinner experience. Great wine, reasonable prices and a fantastic atmosphere make Barrister a top stop for wine connoisseurs and beginners. Make a trip out of it by enjoying everything else downtown Spokane has to offer. Plenty of meter and pay for parking is available.

• Hours: Saturdays 11 am – 4 pm
• Phone: (509) 465-3591
• Website: www.barristerwinery.com