Any study of Washington wine history must include Chateau Ste. Michelle, the state's oldest winery. Chateau Ste. Michelle is not only responsible for putting Washington state on the map, but continues to serve as a rising tide for the rest of the industry. Although I am not a frequent consumer of their wines, I admire them because of their contributions to the state's wine industry.

For example, they serve as host to the annual Washington Wine Highway event, which features over 70 wineries and 50 restaurants from around the state. If you enjoy sampling wine and good food outdoors, then this is an event you don't want to miss. Chateau Ste. Michelle has also extended a helping hand to other wineries in the state. While visiting Walla Walla wineries last month, I learned firsthand that few would have been able to produce a 2004 merlot due to the freeze that year had it not been for Chateau Ste. Michelle's generosity in providing grapes from vineyards in the Columbia Valley.

In their June issue, Food & Wine is featuring an article on Chateau Ste. Michelle, providing some great stories about their history, winemakers and wines. After reading this piece, I have a deeper connection to Chateau Ste. Michelle in particular and our state in general that goes beyond any bottle opened these last few years. It's worth a read online.