Founded by Steven Thompson and Kris Fade in 2010, Analemma Wines was built upon the opportunity to lease one of the oldest vineyards in the Pacific Northwest: The Atavus Vineyard. With just twelve acres of history and a vision, the two set out to breathe life back into the old vines, ferment rare fruit and bottle a truly unique vinous expression of the Columbia Gorge.
The 2016 harvest marks Steven’s 16th vintage of producing wine. After years as a cycling guide in far flung locations from Turkey to New Zealand, Steven stumbled upon the harvest while in Italy and found a new calling. After graduating from the Enology and Viticulture Program at Walla Walla Community College, Steven was offered a position to work with Cayuse Vineyards. Here, he was responsible for winemaking activities as well as directing the vineyard biodynamic program. After meeting Kris and a mutual yearning for travel once again, they left Walla Walla in 2009 for New Zealand. During this time Steven worked the harvest for Craggy Range Winery.
Kris attended school in Walla Walla, where she discovered unexpected similarities between characteristics of terroir and her study of avalanche hazard assessment. Sparking an interest where none had previously been, Kris was inspired to learn about the unique growing conditions which produced such varied fruit and wine. After working the harvest in New Zealand's Hawke's Bay, Kris received her cerfitication in Applied Organics and Biodynamics from Taruna College. This course allowed her to become engrossed in the seasoned farming operations of exemplar biodynamic farms such as Tauroa Station, Taruna at Poriati, and Seresin Estate. While in New Zealand, a special opportunity to lease the Atavus Vineyard in the Columbia River Gorge brought Kris and Steven back to the Pacific Northwest.
In addition to enjoying the year round beauty of the Gorge, Kris and Steven enjoy activities such as cycling, climbing, and skiing.