Graves Cellars, located in Seattle, produces hand-crafted, artisanal, small-production premium varietals and blends, focusing on the old-world style of the Rhone Valley.
Graves Cellars was conceived by Debbie and Doug Graves back in 2000, as an extension and expression of their love for wine. Together, they had traveled extensively to wine regions in the US and Europe, and it was during these travels that they came to love the people, the places, the pace and the passion that surrounds the art of making great wine.
Doug began taking course work at UC Davis, and questioned winemakers wherever they traveled. Debbie and Doug produced their first vintage, as an amateur operation, in 2001 using Syrah from the Yakima Valley. Subsequent vintages followed in 2002 and 2003, using grapes from both the Yakima and Walla Walla Valleys.
Sadly, Debbie succumbed to breast cancer in February of 2004, after a 15-year fight. Doug has continued to pursue their shared passion, with his initial vintage - the 2005 Walla Walla Valley Syrah.
With this release another dream is realized. Throughout her battle with cancer, Debbie maintained that there was a purpose for her continued survival, even as others had succumbed. She felt that she was meant to send a message; to inspire others to not give up and remain positive, and to raise awareness.
