FEATURED WASHINGTON WINERY
DES VOIGNE CELLARS - WOODINVILLE,
WA
 It’s been well over a year now since we last interviewed Darren DesVoigne, winemaker/owner of Des Voigne Cellars, and a lot has happened. The space that he once shared with his brother is now all his own as Derek of Cuillin Hills has moved to a new location nearby. After the split, Darren’s entire selection of wine embraced a new, improved look and feel beginning with the introduction of his latest label artwork. Now, he’s managed to double the winery's total production for this current vintage with plans for a couple additional wines down the road.
Considering the demanding life and times of a winemaker, we were amazed that this young success has time for anything other than creating some of the best wines emerging from Woodinville’s booming wine industry. Given that these great wines continue to get better, it only makes sense that we had to go back for more!
Visiting Darren on a cold December day at his Woodinville winery, we were able to squeeze in a few questions while he was busy conducting blending trials.
WC:
“What made you and your brother finally separate into different spaces?”
DV:
“The move was long overdue.”
With the increase in total wine production and growth of the winery, it was time for Darren and his brother Derek to go their separate ways. It wasn’t a significant move for them because while Des Voigne Cellars remained in the original location, his brother’s winery Cuillin Hills moved just three buildings over on the same side of the industrial complex. The much-needed additional space and label-centric focus allows Darren the opportunity to work on steering his own winery toward the unique identity he has always wanted.
WC:
“What was your decision behind the label change?”
DV:
“I wanted something that stood out – cool and classy, but still fun.”
If you haven’t noticed the recent change, Darren’s labels have been transitioning into a new and contemporary look. The jazz theme from before is even more apparent with tasteful iconography and stylish names that blend his passion for music with his love for wine. “I wanted something that jumped off the shelf and made the wines recognizable.” And recognizable they are, as his wines have really started to surface in regional restaurants and stores. In true Darren fashion, this change has not been short on humor and the addition of t-shirts reading “Jazz up your rack” and “I’m with the band” have given the wine some punchy personality.
WC:
“How have your wines changed since your initial release?”
DV:
“I’ve been getting into higher quality vineyards.”
The upgrade in labels comes as a reflection of the winery itself as Darren has worked to improve the overall quality of both the packaging and the wines. In line with the soft smooth sounds of jazz, Darren strives to create “smooth, succulent, easy drinking wines.” To that end, he is not only looking for consistently better vineyards but is exploring the regions of Horse Heaven and Walla Walla. Different from Red Mountain, these regions produce grapes that fall more into line with his own style of winemaking. “I don’t mind making the drive [to Walla Walla] for better quality.”
Unlike many cellars, Des Voigne wines have managed to improve year after year as Darren continues to work on creating approachable premium Washington wines. His experience and the quality of his wines are sure to continue growing exponentially, but one thing that has managed to stay steady is his pricing. As you have probably noticed, many other wineries, both big and small, raise their prices as demand grows. Darren, however, continues to offer accessible and affordable wine with a little extra personality that you won't find anywhere else. This makes Des Voigne cellars one of our most highly recommended wineries with a price to quality ratio that is a true reflection of the direction for Washington’s wine industry.
Also on the docket for Des Voinge is a remodeling of the tasting room that will make the already engaging atmosphere more of a quality “wine experience.” This is one tasting room that you will definitely want to visit when you get the chance. Darren has mastered the ambiance, the art, the music, and with so many great wines to taste, you won't leave thirsty.
You can get directions, tasting room hours, and special event information for Des Voigne Cellars at their website.
DES VOIGNE
CELLARS
Hours: Saturdays 12-4pm
19501 144th Ave NE
Suite C-200
Woodinville, WA 98072
Phone: 425.415.8466
Fax: 425.415.8411
www.desvoignecellars.com
info@desvoignecellars.com
<back
to top>
|
