Hello Reader,

I think it’s a truth universally acknowledged in Washington that we’re damn lucky to live in this state. We have a variety of landscapes and an abundance of resources near to hand. We’re also lucky to live in a state that is one of the top producers of hops and apples in the country. Washington has 20 American Viticulture Areas (AVA), making us a prominent wine-producer as well.

Basically, we make great drinks.

In this issue, we meet some of the artisans making those great drinks possible here in Puget Sound. A few of them, like Jason Parker, have been making great beer—and now great spirits—for many years. Or like the fine folks of Lopez Island Vineyards, who are making interesting wines particularly suited to our climate here on the coast. Others, like Jaime Hunt of Fast Penny Spirits, are only a few years in the game but making big moves.

Then there are the folks supporting those beverage artisans with food. Chef Aaron Tekulve has dedicated his entire restaurant to the elevation of Washington wines, to great effect. All of them belong, and all of them make this unique region the incredible place that it is.

I hope you’ll come along with us through this snapshot of our region, viewed through the lens of beer, wine, cider and spirits. Maybe you’ll get inspired and raise a glass yourselves.

Thank you for reading.

Cheers to the good life,

Lindsay Kucera
Editor