Methow Valley locals Dean and Heather Neff have been growing their own grapes since 1998. Their gorgeous vineyard “Defiance” spreads across the bottom of the valley, just North of Lake Chelan. Winemaking pioneers, they began their journey following some viticulture and enology classes at a community college by tutoring under several established Washington wineries. During those few years they learned winemaking and retail sales. Then they began their own label called Nonni and Zing in the early 2000’s. Since then, they have grown from producing 250 cases a year to 2000 cases from their 7.5 acres under vine.
A unique experience rarely found at wineries is they offer a large and impeccably decorated two-bedroom, two-story loft. The scenic view overlooks the estate including the lake, vineyards, and gardens. They offer private parking, amazing views and a comfortable home like atmosphere with full amenities and an outdoor space. Guests can book this industrial craftsman style space online for approximately $425 per night during the busy season and $275 per night on the off-season. Lucky guests will get to experience fireworks from the patio.
A small winery and vineyard, they only produce a few varieties. They currently offer their 2012 Rocky Mother Syrah, 2014 Rousanne Marsanne, 2014 Pinot Noir Rose, 2014 Pinot Grigio, 2013 Rx-3, 2014 Consequence, 2013 Riesling, 2013 Malbec, and 2013 Defiance Syrah. They pride themselves on growing their own fruit and have some impressive blocks of Syrah, Riesling and Viognier vines to prove it. They also source some of their fruit from other local vineyards including Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec and Zinfandel.
Neff Cellars are open from April through October. Their hours vary depending upon the month. Typically they are open Wednesday through Sunday noon to 5 but hours and exceptions are posted on their website. During the summer busy season they are open daily from 11am until 5pm. For $5, wine tasters can enjoy a flight of four different vintages. The tasting fee can be applied to a purchase of a bottle, between $19 and $45. Their popular wine club typically has a wait list and includes both a spring and fall shipment of four bottles each.
They do not accommodate special events and only parties of up to six, unless coordinated ahead of time. It is the perfect place to spend a day or evening surrounded by delightful people and the winery head of hospitality, golden retriever Lucy. Their patio view is a sight to behold on it’s own and their excellent wines make this a sure stop for any wine lover or traveler looking for a place to stop for a rest.