The turn of the century brought a change in pace for Craig and Vicki Leutholds, a Spokane-based couple who left their corporate jobs to pursue their love of wine in Goldendale, Wash. The Leutholds set up camp at the four-generation, family-ran Gunkel Vineyard that overlooks the staggering eastern bluff of the Columbia River Gorge. Construction of Maryhill Winery commenced in 2000 to become one of the largest and most visited wineries in the state today—seeing more than 80,000 visitors a year. Why do they come? Well, the views and amphitheater concerts for one, but mostly for the wines. A popular attraction vintage after vintage is the Viognier, 2012 to be specific here. A nose of lychee, white peach, pineapple and butterscotch aromas bust out of the cold wine, while warmer notes emerge with time of citrus and silt. Full and rich with the gentle hand of acidity offering a touch of lift, the finish is tied to pineapple and juicy peach.
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