Why a winery?
Why not? We were looking for something that would make our lives more complicated and add more work to our daily schedule. No boredom here.
Growing up in agriculture gave us both the appreciation of a hard day’s work and its rewards. Milking cows, picking potatoes, bucking hay, and mowing lawns were just a few of the tasks that earned us our first dollars.
After college and subsequent time in the suburbs, moving to a rural setting and revisiting the farm tradition seemed natural. Our history at this property includes Highland cattle, draft (BIG) horses, an orchard that the crows loved, goats, sheep, chicken and dogs.
When most of the livestock had moved on, we planted vines at the urging of a local winemaker. This lead to a more serious consideration of winemaking. Both of us obtained Oenology Certificates through Washington State University and here we are!
Why Italian varietals?
We love Italian wine!
Comfort
Think of an Italian meal. Picture friends and family gathered around the kitchen table with fresh ingredients, inviting aromas, laughter and delicious wine.
Simplicity
Italian wines shine as single varietals. Blending is not required to achieve an outstandingly delicious and approachable wine. That being said, we do like to experiment with unexpected blends.
Versatility
No need to worry. Italian wines pair well with whatever you’re craving.
Winemaking Style
Our guiding principle is to let the grapes shine. Interfere as little as possible. Be unique.
All Dolio wines are produced onsite from carefully tended Washington grown grapes. Our winemaker consistently researches best practices and thoughtfully blends art and science, along with traditional and innovative processes, to achieve the highest quality wines.
What Happened to the Vineyard?
The Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines planted between 2011 and 2013 presented only three successful crops over seven harvestable years. In 2021, the decision was made to reduce the workload and remove the vines.
Dolio’s core red Italian varietals will not ripen in this area. Those grapes have been obtained from Eastern Washington vineyards from our winery’s beginning. It is a pleasure to work with quality grapes from that area.
Dolio Winery Timeline
2011 – First vineyard cuttings planted
2012 – Dolio Winery established
2013 – First commercial crush which produced two award-winning wines
2014-2015 Oneology program through Washington State University
2015 – Tasting room built with doors opening in December
2021 – Vineyards removed because of low successful harvest rate
