Christophe Baron purchased his property and planted his first vineyard in the Stones of the Walla Walla Valley on March 21, 1997. “People said I was crazy, that I’d break my equipment and waste my time and money,” he recalls. “But I knew that vines need to struggle in difficult ground in order to provide their best.”

He called the venture Cayuse Vineyards, after a Native American tribe whose name was derived from the French word “cailloux”—which means “stones.” In the following years, it has grown to five vineyards, encompassing a little more than 47 acres.

What was considered by many a foolish gamble on that field of stones has been rewarded year after year with some of the most acclaimed wines in the region—and in the nation.

Drew Bledsoe is a former NFL quarterback and the owner of the award-winning winery Doubleback. After 14 successful years in the NFL, Drew retired in 2007 and returned to his hometown of Walla Walla. There, he planted the McQueen Vineyard on the southern end of the Walla Walla Valley AVA. In 2008, Drew and his wife, Maura, launched Doubleback with a mission to produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon—mission accomplished!

Sidney Rice, a former NFL wide receiver, and Tim Lenihan, a real estate and construction executive, co-founded Dossier Wine Collective in 2021. Their vision is to craft world-class wines, and they have partnered with renowned winemaker Billo Naravane. Together, they are producing some of the most sought-after wines in the industry.

Jim Kiefer is the co-owner of Walla Walla’s newest culinary hotspot, The Salted Mill. With a deep passion for hospitality and community, Jim ensures every diner enjoys an unforgettable experience in the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.

Winemakers Jean-François Pellet and Justin Wylie—are longtime friends and collaborators based in Walla Walla’s southside.

Jean-François Pellet: A Swiss-born winemaker, Jean-François has honed his craft in Spain, Germany, Napa Valley, and now Walla Walla, where he creates exceptional wines at Pepper Bridge Winery.

Justin Wylie: A fourth-generation Walla Wallan, Justin began experimenting with winemaking in his garage. With encouragement from friends and family, he launched Va Piano after his first commercial crush in 2003.