our story
Seeking a life that harnessed their combined backgrounds in chemistry and business, Denise and Brett Isenhower spent two years researching where to make wine in the Western United States. Washington was selected because it is the most entrepreneurial region to craft world-class wine. In 1999 the Isenhower’s founded Isenhower Cellars in Walla Walla because it is the most attractive town in Eastern Washington.
Denise and Brett built their winery in 2002 on six acres of farmland south of Walla Walla. The initial planting of the Isenhower Estate Vineyard was two acres of Malbec (2008) with more acreage to follow. The Isenhower‘s long-term goal is to grow half of their own grapes and purchase the remainder from their outstanding vineyard partners.

wine philosophy
Isenhower Cellars has long-term “by the acre” contracts with seven excellent vineyards whose farmers are absolutely committed to growing outstanding grapes in an environmentally sustainable manner. Denise and Brett work closely with the farmers to make wines that reflect the essence of the vineyards.
All the grapes are hand picked and hand sorted prior to fermentation. Isenhower Cellars does not use modern winemaking chemicals and enzymes to make wine. White wine and Rosé are aged exclusively in stainless steel tanks to retain vibrancy and avoid oaky flavors.
Red wines are aged in tight grain French Oak barrels, predominately used and impart limited oak flavors. Denise and Brett minimally rack (transfer wine from barrel to barrel) allowing the wines to age very well.

our wines
Denise and Brett Isenhower produce unique wines that reflect the essence of the vineyards of Eastern Washington.  The individual wines are based on Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Merlot, Roussanne, and Syrah.