Latah Creek Wine Cellars: A Legacy in Every Bottle

43 Years of craftsmanship, family, and new beginnings

By Like Media Team

Latah Creek Wine Cellars has been a cornerstone of Washington State’s wine industry for over four decades, combining passion, affordability, and award-winning craftsmanship. Located in Spokane Valley, this family-owned winery is a testament to the enduring vision of founders Mike and Ellena Conway and their daughter, Natalie Conway-Barnes, who now leads as head winemaker. Together, they have fostered a legacy that balances innovation with tradition.

Latah Creek’s recent label redesign reflects this duality. According to Natalie, the refreshed look honors the winery’s roots while reinvigorating its presence. “We wanted to remind our community that Latah Creek is still around after 43 years, making award-winning, affordably priced wines. And what better way to do that than to make people do a double take when they see our logo on a bottle?” she explains. The updated labels retain the wildlife artwork of Floyd A. Broadbent, a defining feature since the winery’s inception. The new design, created by Laura from Terra Cotta Designs, incorporates Broadbent’s “Standing California Quail,” ensuring the winery’s heritage remains front and center.

Latah Creek’s N Collection is another standout, celebrating Natalie’s 20 years as a winemaker. This special edition reflects her deep connection to Washington’s diverse wine regions. “I aim to highlight some of these amazing regions and the unique grapes they produce by sourcing high-quality, bulk, finished wines,” Natalie shares. Each wine she releases represents her dedication to creating exceptional wines that are accessible to all.

Awards have consistently recognized Latah Creek’s dedication to excellence. Among its recent honors, the winery’s 2021 Tempranillo received two Gold medals and scored 93 points, while the 2023 Riesling was awarded a Double Gold, two Golds, and scored 95 and 93 points.  Additionally, Mike's Reserve Red No. 4 and the 2023 Orange Moscato earned Best of Class awards and Gold medals. Over the past five years, Latah Creek's wines have garnered more than 50 Gold awards or higher and 8 Best of Class accolades. Natalie views these honors as affirmations of their mission. “These wins give us the gumption to keep going! You don’t have to be large or charge double to make exceptional wine. It just takes commitment and passion,” she says.

Affordability is a cornerstone of Latah Creek’s philosophy, a value instilled by Mike and Ellena when they founded the winery. “They believe everyone deserves to enjoy delicious wine every single day, not just on special occasions,” Natalie emphasizes. While industry changes and market perceptions can pose challenges, the family remains steadfast in their dedication to crafting top-quality wines that won’t break the bank. “There are times when it would be easier to change this commitment, but we would lose a part of ourselves in the process,” Natalie explains.

Balancing growth with a personal touch is another key to Latah Creek’s success. Despite being one of Washington’s top 100 wineries, the Conways maintain a hands-on approach. Natalie and her father oversee all winemaking processes, a rarity in an industry often marked by large-scale operations. “I am proud to say that my dad and I are the only ones who do any winemaking work, so we can honestly say we intimately know everything done to our wines,” Natalie shares. This level of involvement extends to their tasting room, where visitors are warmly welcomed into what feels like the family’s home.

Reflecting on the winery’s journey, Natalie is proud to be part of Washington’s first father-daughter winemaking team. “I didn’t realize the significance behind our joint efforts,” she admits. “Most veteran winemakers would retire when they have someone to step into their role, but instead, my dad stayed. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

As Latah Creek Wine Cellars moves into its 43rd year, its dedication to quality, family, and community remains unwavering. Whether through its expertly crafted, award-winning wines, innovative collections, or welcoming tasting room, the winery continues to prove that great wine can be both exceptional and accessible. As Natalie transitions into new positions at the winery, observe how a second-generation family business evolves, including introducing locally crafted beer on the menu, new wines, and so much more.

Join Mike, Ellena, and Natalie in July for Latah Creek's 43rd Anniversary Celebration and in September for their 44th Harvest.

Latah Creek Wine Cellars

13030 E. Indiana Ave

Spokane Valley, WA

509.926.0164

LatahCreek.com

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