9.16.25
A Family Perspective: Our 2025 Harvest at L’Ecole № 41
Hi friends,
This marks my third harvest season at our Schoolhouse, and if there’s one thing that hasn’t changed, it’s my curiosity. Every September reminds me that harvest is equal parts science, patience, and joy – and I’m always blown away by the hard work it takes to make it all run so smoothly.
We kicked off this Washington State wine harvest a couple of weeks ago with a Champagne toast led by our Winemaker, Marcus Rafanelli. He set the tone for the season with words that stuck with me – wishing that the grapes be handled with care, honoring the hands that brought them here, and those that will now guide them forward into a killer vintage. Since then, the first wave of fruit has been rolling in: Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, along with Merlot and Syrah.
Each year, we source from our estate vineyards – Ferguson and Seven Hills – as well as some of the oldest, most respected sites across the Columbia Valley. Our team is working tirelessly to ensure every cluster arrives at peak ripeness, laying the foundation for wines with the depth and expressive character you expect from L’Ecole.
The 2025 Vintage: What Our Winemaker Is Saying
I was so impressed by Marcus’s optimism about the 2025 vintage. He summed it up beautifully:
“The 2025 growing season is shaping up to be a great one. Growing Degree Days, which measure heat accumulation, are just slightly above the long-term average. This is great news, as years with these conditions often produce exceptional wines. While there was a brief heat spike at the beginning of harvest, it was followed by a welcome period of cooler temperatures. The fruit looks great, and the flavors are fantastic.”
Your Invitation to the Schoolhouse
While the vineyards are buzzing, I’d love to welcome you to our historic Walla Walla winery. Earlier this year, our Hospitality Manager, Ciera Roop, and I created brand-new experiences from scratch—and there’s something for everyone.
- If you’re looking for a classic introduction to our wines, join us for a guided tasting in the traditional seated style.
- Want something more immersive? The Harvest Overlook is fabulous—perched perfectly on the patio with a view of the harvest unfolding in real time.
- And if easygoing is more your pace, The Schoolhouse Picnic on the lawn might be just the thing. A glass of wine in hand, fresh snacks, and dare I say, autumn air? Say less.
I truly hope you’ll grab your crew and come see us. We would love to host you. Plan Your Visit
Our Newest Release & My Favorite Pairing
Speaking of favorites, our 2024 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Chardonnay has just been released, and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s vibrant, textured, and pure L’Ecole – everything I hope for in a glass.
You’ll often catch me pouring a glass while I prep dinner, and this week I’m pairing it with a spread that lets the wine shine. Most of the produce will come straight from Riley’s parents’ garden, so you get that just-picked freshness – sun-ripened tomatoes, herbs snipped that very afternoon, and all the garden-to-table magic that makes every bite sing alongside the wine.
Here’s what’s on my menu:
- Shrimp – sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon.
- Peach salsa – sun-ripened peaches and garden tomatoes tossed with lime, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño to echo the Chardonnay’s white peach and golden apple notes. Finished with crushed pistachios for the perfect crunch.
- Shishito peppers – blistered in a hot pan, finished with flaky sea salt and a squeeze of lemon.
Altogether, it’s fresh, savory, citrusy, and just a little smoky – he perfect backdrop for every layer of this L’Ecole Chardonnay.
Thank you for following along this season. It’s fun sharing these updates, and your curiosity and support make it all the more meaningful.
Warmly,
Melissa Clubb
