Washington presents an interesting dichotomy.

It’s a state split in half by drastic climate variations. The population epicenters have green vegetation and are known for rainy days and music. Baer Winery might get its fruit from the arid eastern portion of the state but is located on the west side in a warehouse district loaded with winemakers in Woodinville.
Baer is miles from its vineyards but turning out world-class wines.

Winemaker spotlight
Cabernet Franc takes on many personalities.

In Washington, specifically in Ursa, a Bordeaux-style blend by Baer has a solid backbone.
“We have a pretty expression of Cab Franc in Washington,” said owner Lisa Baer. “It’s a varietal that can sometimes be green ... . But we get dried roses, black pepper, spice and a beautiful bouquet.”
Ursa was near the top of a prestigious year-end wine list, and a media and customer blitz followed. The winery is a father-daughter operation that Baer quipped also features “one-and-a-half employees.”
Despite the attention, Baer stayed focused on maintaining a family-run winery.