Yakima & Columbia Valley, Washington
In the quaint corners of North Seattle, a serendipitous encounter between Marty Taucher and Chris Peterson at Fiddlers Inn in 2009 would spark the genesis of Avennia. Marty, seeking a discerning eye for his winery business plan, found in Chris a kindred spirit with a shared passion for winemaking. The conversation evolved into a partnership built on mutual respect, with both men agreeing on Avennia's fundamental principles – an unwavering commitment to signature vineyards and natural cellar processes, producing unparalleled Washington wines. Avennia became a reality through the collaborative efforts of Chris and Marty, supported by their equally enthusiastic wives, Lauren Smith and Colleen. By the close of 2010, Avennia had transformed 16 tons of fruit into wine, laying the foundation for a decade-long journey characterized by timeless wines and enduring principles.
Driven by the vision to showcase Washington as a unique haven for exceptional wines, Avennia continues to thrive, grounded in their commitment to the grape varieties of Bordeaux and the Rhône. Their winemaking philosophy draws inspiration from Old World naturalist vigneron methods, emphasizing minimal intervention to let the fruit speak for itself. Blending, a meticulous and purposeful process, is central to their craft, with a focus on achieving balance, structure, and a distinctive character in each bottle. For Avennia, the highest accolade is a wine that harmoniously weaves together fruit, acid, tannin, and oak—a testament to their dedication to the art of winemaking.