Diane and Cliff Otis have a passion for excellence and great wine, which is evident in their two labels: Matthews and Tenor. Matthews Winery was long considered a flagship brand in Washington’s booming wine industry when the Otis family took over in 2008. With the goal of taking the brand to the next level, Cliff solidified their grape sources with the state’s finest vineyards and turned the winemaking reins over to Aryn Morell, who had worked for some of Napa Valley’s most prestigious wineries. The results have been stunning. Matthews’ wines are well-balanced and age-worthy wines from the classic Bordeaux varietals. The Claret is the flagship wine and consistently displays refinement and elegance.
“The Matthews reputation is built on its Bordeaux heritage,” Cliff says. “Under Aryn’s guidance, we are able to showcase the incredible fruit grown in Washington State, which undoubtedly is some of the finest in the world.”
In 2008, Cliff and Aryn were able to secure grapes from some of Washington’s most prestigious—and previously unavailable—vineyard blocks. A world-class wine was created, and Tenor was born. Through exceptional fruit sources and the Otis family’s unwavering commitment to excellence, Tenor wines are now some of the most outstanding wines produced in Washington State. Each year, the focus is to produce wines that deliver finesse, refinement, power, and grace from only the finest 100 percent single varietals that meet their strict standards.
The Matthews’ tasting room sits on eight acres in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country and is frequently named as one of the region’s favorites. In fact, Matthews was awarded Best Winery in 2011 by 425 Magazine. Additionally, the Otis family has elevated the experience with the Estate House, a well-appointed B&B tucked in a wooded setting overlooking the Sammamish River Valley. The Estate House is equipped with a state-of-the-art kitchen and great room, and is ideal for entertaining small intimate gatherings or large private events, weddings, and other special occasions.
What to Buy
’11 Matthews Columbia Valley Claret – $40
Currants, strawberries, spice, plums, chocolate, red berries
’11 Tenor Syrah – $60
Black fruit, baking spice, tobacco, plum skin, blackberry, black cherry
’10 Tenor 1:1 – $98
Ripe red fruit, black currants, plum, raspberry ganache, Asian spice, vanilla bean
Special Notes
Bed & breakfast, weddings and events, private and group tastings by appointment, live music on Friday evenings.
Contact
16116 140th Place NE
Woodinville, WA 98072
Phone: 425-487-9810
Website: matthewswinery.com,tenorwines.com
Tasting Room: Open Daily 12–6
Touring & Tasting
Touring & Tasting is a media company that produces a wine and travel magazine.
