The Wine Knows

I've written with some frequency about finding your niche in the Northwest wine industry, and I love to highlight those who are.

In 2005, Heather Lewis saw a need that wasn't being filled in her hometown of Walla Walla, Wash. She was frustrated because she couldn't get the information she wanted about local wineries. The Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance did a good job with maps, brochures, etc., but everything was moving so fast, that kind of info was out of date soon after it was printed.

"It usually takes a few trips (to Walla Walla) to find out where to stay and eat, especially where to get lunch or breakfast," she told me.

So in 2005, Heather started Walla Walla Wine News, a Web site that strives to have the latest information on wineries, restaurants, lodging, news and rumors.

"What started out as a way to send information to friends and relatives gained momentum and took on a life of its own - not unlike making wine in the garage!" she said.

She updates the Web site regularly and sends out an email newsletter to let folks know what's happening. For instance, in her email Saturday, she noted that many small inns and guest houses in the valley already are booked up for Spring Release Weekend in May.

This is valuable information for someone planning a wine weekend in Walla Walla.

Much of Heather's information comes from hearing tidbits while sitting in coffeeshops and tips from readers.

"In a small community, everyone seems to know everything!" she said.

So far, this is little more than a hobby for Heather, who has a full-time career and family to fill most of her waking hours. However, this is a prime example of somebody seeing a need and filling it. If she keeps at it with the diligence she has shown so far, she will emerge as the leading expert on what's happening in and around the Walla Walla wine scene.

And that could be very valuable indeed.