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Dusted Valley Winery recently opened an Edmonds Wine Bar on Main Street, and wine lovers across the Puget Sound have reason to celebrate.

The story of this family-owned winery is the 21st century American Dream – joining with loved ones to create a sustainable business that strengthens community and makes people smile. Leaving their safe corporate jobs, brothers-in-law Chad Johnson and Corey Braunel decided to become winegrowers, and their spouses, sisters Janet Johnson and Cindy Braunel, created a business model to support the dream.

"We lead with the wine and who we are– the people (our family and team), with the place (designed to transport people to Walla Walla), and the wine (unique region and wine style)," said Corey Braunel. "We do what we do and operate the way we do because people can feel how much we care through our wines and hospitality-driven experience."

When they first started making wines, matching old-world structure with new world fruit for a truly all-Washington wine, Dusted Valley was one of 200 wineries in Washington (today there are 1,000+). Fun fact: Dusted Valley was the first Washington winery to use screw cap closures for a quality, sustainable product.

"We grow grapes and make wine in Washington State," said Braunel. "Our wines are a true expression of Washington State terroir and a celebration of the people."

The Edmonds tasting room is welcoming, modern, and a refreshingly simple tribute to winemaking. Winery photos line the walls by the tasting tables, while a charming mural of the winery's history adorns the entryway.

Walking in on a chilly winter night, the anticipation of trying several of the wines is coupled with imagining the lovely space throughout the year, especially in spring and summer with the roll-up doors open.

The wonderful Edmonds tasting team, with Hospitality Manager Lindsay Bradshaw at the helm, enthusiastically share their knowledge and love of wine. The Signature Tasting includes six wines, and the $20 fee is waived with the purchase of two bottles.

As the tasting progresses, it becomes apparent that the intent is to connect the wine to its place in the Dusted Valley story and a deeper understanding of their unique winemaking process. Dusted Valley pursues sustainable farming practices and their intentionally low yields produce grapes and wines of true quality.

Tasting the family vintages at Dusted Valley is a journey of discovery and storytelling. Guests quickly find themselves speaking comfortably about the deep ripe plums and black cherries and approachable tannins in the V.R. Special Cab Sauv.

The Olsen Vineyard Chardonnay is a big and juicy white with lots of vanilla, while the Tall Tales Syrah tastes of licorice, star anise, and even sarsaparilla. The Stained Tooth Syrah has smoky notes to go with the fruit, while the BFM (merlot/cabernet franc/petit verdot) leads with berries and violets and feels extra special.

The creative force behind Dusted Valley, from left: Chad Johnson, Janet Johnson, Cindy Braunel, and Corey Braunel.

"People can gain a real understanding of who we are through the tasting experience," said Braunel, "And we create the sense of community through the Wine Club.

Their Wine Club, the Stained Tooth Society, provides access to special wines, exclusive events, and the spring and fall releases. The Edmonds club is already growing, and members will soon enjoy classes on Washington wines, Dusted Valley, and even wine blending.

The Edmonds location will feature a selection of small plates (available in April) to be paired with the wines in Signature Tastings. Also in April, the annual case sale of their Boomtown line of wines will raise funds for local charities, donating $50 per case.

The Dusted Valley Tasting Room in Edmonds is open at 201 Main Street Thursday through Monday by reservation or walk-in. Learn more about the Dusted Valley experience at http://www.dustedvalley.com.