our story
Tradition
The history of any great winery is interesting because you learn the story behind the passion and the dedication it took over the years. The story of Smasne Cellars is no different. Our humble beginning of 75 cases that first vintage led way to Smasne Cellars later becoming the Washington Winery of the Year. Since 1998, Robert O. Smasne has dedicated himself to crafting world class wines from the region his family has called home for over 100 years. This led Robert to become a sought-after wine consultant for many other Washington wineries. Smasne Cellars strives to embody the tradition, passion and quality needed to produce distinguished wines. We pride ourselves on creating wines of individual character, intensity, and refined elegance all while capturing the true character with the purest expression of fruit and distinctive terroir from each vineyard.
1998
ROBERT SMASNE
A tale as old as time was born again in the heart of Robert Smasne as he fell into the beautiful art of winemaking and began his career creating mastery in a bottle. It wasn’t long before Robert became a sought-after winemaking consultant to many Washington wineries in addition to making wine for Smasne Cellars.
2003
FIRST VINTAGE
In 2003, the first vintage was processed for Smasne Cellars, to be released three years later. The art of winemaking is slow, but all good things come to those who wait.
2006
First Release
In 2006, we were pleased to release our first wine from Smasne Cellars. Producing a single bottle of wine takes years of planning, development, and dedication to ensure the wine bursts with flavor and entices those who drink it.
2009
WOODINVILLE WINERY TASTING ROOM
To truly understand the intricacies and beauty of a wine, it must be tasted. Smasne Cellars was excited to open our tasting room located in Woodinville, Washington.
2013
WINERY OF THE YEAR
Smasne Cellars was honored by being named Washington Winery of the year.
2016
Prosser Winery Tasting Room
In 2016, Smasne Cellars was excited to purchase and move into its new winery facilities and tasting room located in Prosser, WA.
2019
Yakima River Winery Purchase
The Yakima River winery was founded in 1977 by John and Louise Rauner. The purchase of this historic label allows us to expand our portfolio and dedication to the Yakima Valley.
Where Our Wine Begins
Smasne Cellars sources our grapes from some of the top vineyards in Washington State. To ensure we utilize only premier grapes, each vineyard is carefully selected, and grapes are hand-picked from specific vines within marked blocks and designated rows from each vineyard. We intricately collaborate with passionate and dedicated growers to allow for the desired stylistic and winemaking qualities we strive for. This process combines countless hours of effort, meticulous vineyard practices, and a distinct sense of terroir to offer world-class grapes every time.
Roxboro Vineyard
- American Viticultural Area – Columbia Valley
- Grapes contracted – Syrah, Malbec
Phinny Hill Vineyard
- American Viticultural Area – Horse Heaven Hills
- Grapes contracted – Carménère, Petit Verdot, Malbec