Today I played hooky from my computer work for an hour in order to attend the grand opening of Silver Bell Winery in Manson, Washington near Lake Chelan.
Much more fun than staring at a computer screen, right?
I’d been driving by this beautiful tasting room building for the past couple years on my way to wine tasting and lunch at Benson Vineyards. I’ve been so intrigued to explore the inside of Silver Bell Winery and taste their wines, and finally today was the day!
Here are winemaker Alan (on the right), winery co-owner Diane and their son Zach (on the left). It just happened to be Alan’s birthday – I should have thought to bring a couple of festive balloons!
I asked about the meaning behind the winery’s name, “Silver Bell.” Alan told me that we ring bells at the beginning, or ending, of momentous or festive occasions. That makes so much sense to me!
You can read about Silver Bell Winery’s history (they ran the winery from La Conner until 2017, for starters) on the About page on the Silver Bell Winery website.
The tasting room has lovely air conditioning inside, and a spacious patio outside.
I can foresee many happy afternoons spent hosting a few guests at this winery for outdoor wine tastings.
The large patio affords stunning views of Lake Chelan, and I’m assuming it’s dog-friendly due to friendly little winery dog “Brix” greeting guests so enthusiastically.
I had to pause a moment to admire the beautiful, colorful and immaculately maintained landscaping.
Treat yourself to this stunning view of Lake Chelan from the hills above the lake in Manson.
Currently on the wine tasting menu: (Spoiler warning!)
- Essence white wine blend – Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon
- SB Rosé – Cab Sauv, Cab Franc and Grenache
- Silhouette – 50% Merlot, 25% Cab Sauv, 25% Malbec
- Moxie – (My favorite!) 70% Cab Franc, 20% Cab Sauv, 20% Malbec
- Aubaine – Cab Sauv dominant red blend with Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot
Silver Bell’s Rosé is Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, and uses Cabernet Franc to add some red fruit flavors.
Like many local Rosés, I expect this one to sell out before summer ends. If you’re a Rosé fan, grab a few bottles now while you still can!
I found it a little strange that other than the Rosé, a 2020, the vintage year wasn’t shown on the front of the bottles, nor on the tasting menu, so I have no idea what the ages of these wines was. The reds were well-balanced and tasted like they had some years on them.
Silver Bell Winery is located at 21 Veroske Road, Manson, WA 98831. Currently they’re open noon to 5 pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday, but check their website before you go in case hours have changed.
Take a look at the video I filmed during my visit, if you like:
Happy wine tasting! After you visit Silver Bell Winery, please drop us a note in the comments below to tell us which of their wines was your favorite!
-Carrie
RESOURCES:
Silver Bell Winery on Facebook
Silver Bell Winery on Instagram