Welcome to
C.R. Sandidge Wines
We have a Reputation. A Reputation for Making Damn Good Wines using Washington State Grapes
C R Sandidge Wines was founded in 1999 by Ray Sandidge and family members. However, the winemaking and grape growing legacy actually began 14 years earlier. In 1985, Ray Sandidge left his career conducting research for Washington State University and set off down his professional Vigneron path. Fourteen years into his hands – on – international learning experience, C R Sandidge Wines came into being. In 2004, our family moved our winery to the Lake Chelan valley making us one of the original 6 wineries to set up shop in that pristine environment. Over a quarter of a century later, Athena, Caris and Ray are still bringing that spirit of desire, focused passion and sacrifice to bear in every bottle of wine we produce.
Our annual production averages about 90% red wine and 10% dry white wine. Please visit our Current Releases page for additional information.
Enjoy a few of our favorite pairings
Dishes direct from Ray’s kitchen. These recipes celebrate our love of food, friends and wine.
Meet Our Vigneron & Understand His Approach to Grape Growing and Winemaking
What is a “Vigneron”? This ancient French term quite simply describes a person who grows grapes and turns around and makes wine from those grapes he or she has grown. Our Vigneron’s practices are rooted in old – traditional tried and true methods proven to be successful for centuries by Vignerons in Europe and more recently, by C R Sandidge to produce grapes and wines of exceptional quality. Stylistically, our desire is to produce red and white wines capable of aging a good 8 – 15 years. Our wines must display a sense of place (vineyard), a healthy respect for flavors and aromas the grape brings to the table along with moderate oak barrel influence.
- Ray Sandidge is considered one of the top Vignerons in the Pacific Northwest.
40+ years of internationally and nationally acclaimed results back up this humble fact. - Our estate vines are cultivated utilizing 100% organic methods and materials.
- NOTE, our wines are not a chemistry experiment or the latest fad gone rogue. We employ what could be described as a “thoughtful – minimal winemaking inputs – take what nature has blessed us with” attitude.
- Our approach to grape processing and winemaking are nurtured by decades of personal knowledge and passion based on centuries of wisdom accumulated by our international winemaking brethren.
Sustainability
Is our desire to profit tempered, respectful and sustainable? How we farm, make wine and live out our lives is as important to us as it is to you and your family.
- When in doubt, we err on the side of protecting nature.
- We attempt whenever possible to purchase products made domestically. Lowering our carbon foot print (less distance hauling especially from overseas) while employing our neighbors and countrymen as this is important.
- We treat our vineyard and cellar labor with respect. Their dignity, personal and family needs are paramount.
Current Releases
THE GRAPE SOURCE
About the Lake Chelan AVA
The Lake Chelan appellation is located in central Washington and is a sub-appellation of the Columbia Valley. Lake Chelan is an extremely young growing region, with its first modern day vinifera plantings in 1998. The most planted grapes are Pinot Noir and Riesling, followed by Syrah. The region also has significant plantings of Gewürztraminer. However, over 20 vinifera varieties are currently being explored.