Island Vibes and Wine Dreams: A Ferry Tale at Fletcher Bay Winery
Sometimes the best adventures begin with a spontaneous decision and that’s exactly how Lisa
and I found ourselves sailing across Puget Sound on a whim, headed for Bainbridge Island.
Seattle was fading into the fog behind us, and the salty breeze hinted at something unexpected
waiting just beyond the water.
Our mission? Wine.
Our map? Vibes only.
After a quick and scenic ferry ride, we were winding our way through the charming, pine-fringed
roads of Bainbridge Island, on the hunt for something local, low-key, and delicious. That’s when
we stumbled upon Fletcher Bay Winery, tucked into a semi-industrial nook with just the right
touch of Pacific Northwest charm.
Think wood beams, cozy vibes, and—best of all—a roaring fireplace that drew us in like bees to
a barrel of mead.
We nestled into a couple of chairs and found ourselves in the company of locals, all animated
and warm, their laughter swirling through the air like the aroma of fermenting grapes. Before
long, we were chatting with none other than Jim Wilford, the founder and winemaker himself.
Over a glass (okay, maybe two) of their beautifully crisp White Pinot, Jim shared the story of
how Fletcher Bay began—not in a vineyard, but in a garage, 19 years ago. Just him, his wife
Sharon, a few barrels, and a dream. Fast forward to today, and Fletcher Bay Winery has grown
into a Bainbridge institution, with multiple tasting rooms and a lineup of wines that could hold
their own in any Napa tasting flight.
Here’s the twist: while Bainbridge Island’s cool coastal climate isn’t ideal for grape growing,
Fletcher Bay sources top-tier fruit from across Washington’s premier AVAs—think Yakima,
Red Mountain, and Walla Walla. But the magic? That all happens right here on the island. The
crushing, the blending, the aging—it’s all deeply local and fiercely hands-on.
So yes, we came for a quick glass of wine.
And we left with a story, a new favorite bottle, and a reminder that great wine is more than
what’s in the glass. It’s the people, the passion, and the places you least expect to find them.
If you find yourself near Seattle with a few hours to spare, hop the ferry and let Fletcher Bay
Winery surprise you. Your palate—and your spirit—will thank you.
Pro Tip: Try their Syrah or the Petit Verdot if you like your reds bold and complex. And don’t
miss the chance to chat with the locals—you might just meet the winemaker himself.
