The Charms of Orcas Island Winery
Sleepy grand firs, a rolling grass field, firepits, picnic tables, and a modern wood barn that seems to have been plucked from a romance novel: just a few of the reasons to visit this slice of vino paradise. Nestled at the base of Turtleback Mountain, Orcas Island Winery has become a community hub for locals and visitors alike.
With a boutique tasting room and a spacious (emphasis on space) outdoor venue, the family-owned winery feels like visiting your chosen family. Dog- and kid-friendly, it’s often a lively affair where parents lounge while littles roam. During the summer, live music and food trucks regularly take up residency on Friday nights — offering a festive atmosphere filled with laughter.
Getting to Orcas Island Winery
Getting to Orcas Island is an adventure in itself. We’re a bit biased, but we believe flying from Boeing Field to Eastsound Airport or taking a seaplane from Lake Washington or Lake Union to Orcas Island is the most beautiful way to travel. It’s undoubtedly the fastest. Alternatively, you could take a ferry or private boat to Orcas Island.
The Winery Experience
Community is at the heart of this tranquil winery. And, thanks to its large parking lot and sprawling 16-acre estate, it can accommodate large gatherings. But don’t let the size fool you. Service here is offered with a personal touch, as owners Tera Andaya and Wesley Landman can frequently be found pouring wine and answering questions.
While the intimate tasting room is a must-visit, thanks to the large display of rotating art collections, Orcas Island Winery is best enjoyed outside. Grab a picnic table or spread out a blanket and enjoy the fresh island air with your glass of wine.
An array of gourmet picnic supplies are available in the tasting room, including local treats like goat cheese from Orcas Island’s Lum Farm. But don’t limit yourself to the tasting room spread. Bringing your own supplies is also strongly encouraged. Some of the top places to grab food for an afternoon or evening at Orcas Island Winery include:
The Wines
The wines here are sold nearly exclusively at the winery, with a handful of bottles popping up in shops around town. Sampling these pours is an experiential moment that evolves with each visit — in no small part, thanks to the winery’s ever-changing selection of bottles.
All wine is bottled in-house, using a four-spout bottler. Each case is a labor of love. But don’t let the winery’s size fool you. In addition to a handful of reds, the winery’s expanding repertoire of unique varieties and fermentation styles invites you to expand your wine repertoire.
One such pour is the chilled, unoaked red named Coast that is currently available (as of August 2024). Don’t wait too long though. With such small batch production, it’s not uncommon for them to sell out.
Other favorites include the effervescent Isla, a smooth sipping rose perfect for enjoying with a side of sunshine.
Orcas Island Winery Current Wine Offering (August 2024)
- June – 2023 Pinot Gris
- Astrid – 2022 Semillon
- Isla – 2023 Rose
- Coast – 2023 Counoise
- 2018 Malbec
- 2018 Syrah
- Turtleback – 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot Blend
Orcas Island Winery & Events
Orcas Island Winery is more than just a place to sample fine wines. It regularly hosts events, live music, and art shows. The winery often collaborates with local artists, musicians, and chefs to create unforgettable experiences celebrating the island’s vibrant culture.
For the most accurate info on winery happenings, skip their website and head to Instagram. The account is active and regularly posts updates on upcoming shows and gatherings.
