Part One: A Vineyard Story

I think it was 2007 when I first decided I wanted to start a commercial winery. Well… I didn’t exactly decide—it was more of a foggy notion, the kind that comes after a couple glasses of something. What I did know for sure was that I wanted to learn everything I could about winemaking. So when the chance came up to attend the annual Washington Grape Growers Association conference in Richland, I didn’t hesitate. I packed a notebook, some enthusiasm, and tagged along with my friend and mentor, Joel McNelly—founder of Cowlitz County’s very first winery, Capstone Cellars.

It was a typical road trip to the Valley, that mythical place where grapes grow like weeds and the sun always shines.

Joel had one thing on his mind: vendors. Cork reps, shiny new gadgets that promise to revolutionize fermentation, and that one guy peddling the “next big thing” in sulfite management. Joel wasn’t much for seminars or schmoozing. He liked to fly under the radar. But this time, someone handed him a ticket to a seminar titled: “What Makes a 100-Point Wine.”

He gave me a nod and disappeared into the crowd. I found a seat in the packed room because let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to know the secret sauce behind wine perfection?

Then came the dreaded break. “Say hello to the folks around you,” the moderator chirped.

Great.

Small talk with strangers is not my superpower. I was a guest at an industry event, with no credentials, no vineyard, not even a laminated name badge. Just me, standing in a room full of sun-seasoned grape farmers from Walla Walla and Prosser, praying I wouldn’t be outed as a total imposter.

That’s when he walked up. A plainspoken, friendly guy in work jeans and a quiet presence—someone who looked more like a tractor mechanic than a wine legend.

“Where you from?” he asked.

“Uh… Longview,” I said, bracing for the look that says “Where’s that?”

Instead, he lit up. “I know Longview! Our family take Highway 30 to Long Beach every summer for vacation. Stop off there to grab gas and snacks.”

Phew. Crisis averted. Credability still in tacked.

Then he asked, “So, what brings you to the conference?”

I gave him my best humble shrug. “I’m an amateur winemaker. Just hoping to learn something.”

Apparently, that was the magic password.

His name was Mike Sauer.

Now, if you’re in the wine world, that name might make your heart skip a beat. At the time, I just thought, “Nice guy, probably sells tractor parts.”

Turns out Mike was the Mike Sauer of Red Willow Vineyard in Wapato. He along with the legendary David Lake of Columbia Winery was responsible for planting the first Syrah in Washington. And he didn’t stop there. He helped pioneer the planting of Italian varietals in Yakima long before it was cool.

But none of that came up in our chat. What did come up? Dolcetto. Mike casually mentioned he had some Dolcetto grapes available and wondered if I’d be interested.

I didn't even know what Dolcetto was. It sounded foreign like Spanish.But I looked him in the eye, smiled, and said, “Sure. I’ll take 'em.”

We shook hands, and in that moment, I didn’t just feel like I’d made a grape purchase—I felt like I belonged.

After the seminar, I found Joel on the other side of the room and told him about the guy I sat next to. “Really nice guy. Said he had some grapes.”

Joel raised an eyebrow. “Who?”

“Mike Sauer.”

His jaw droped. “Do you know who that is?!”

I did not.

So Joel gave me the crash course on Red Willow, their near-mythic status, and Mike’s place in the pantheon of Washington wine. I shrugged , half-expecting the whole thing was a fluke and I’d never hear from Mike again.

But then, a few weeks later, the phone rang.

The Road Ahead: On Cars, Community, and the Generosity That Moves Us

At Roland Wines, we talk a lot about wine—how it brings people together, tells a story, and marks the milestones of life. But sometimes, life reminds us that the most precious vintage isn’t bottled—it's the relationships we build along the way.

Recently, something extraordinary happened. Our dear friends and longtime wine club members, Steve Trotter and Kerry Williquette, did something that impacted us greatly: they gave us a car.

After our beloved old Saab—a car Nancy cherished and had hoped to drive forever—was unexpectedly totaled, we found ourselves in a bind. That car had been more than just transportation; it was part of the rhythm of our lives. Replacing it felt daunting.

And then Steve and Kerry stepped in. No fanfare. No hesitation. Just a quiet, powerful gesture of care.

This wasn’t just generous it was amazingly kind. In a world that often moves too fast, this act slowed us down and reminded us of something timeless: the beauty of community.

When we opened our doors at Roland Wines, we dreamed of creating a space that felt like home. A place where people could share not only food and wine, but friendship, laughter, and support. We’ve poured glasses, told stories, and built something rooted in trust. But moments like this remind us that community doesn’t just happen, it lives in the hearts of people like Steve and Kerry.

Their gift wasn’t just a car. It was a symbol of connection. A reminder that in times of need, we’re never truly alone. That when the road gets rough, someone will show up.

Thank you Steve and Kerry. You’ve renewed our faith in what it means to be part of a loving, generous community.

And to all of you reading this: thank you for being part of our lives. We hope you’ll raise a glass with someone you love soon. Because in the end, it’s not just about the wine—it’s about the people we share it with.

Cheers,
Marc, Nancy, Zak & the Roland Wines Family

Washington wine reaches a Milestone

It has happened. It’s a first. A milestone! The Washington State winemaking scene has recently celebrated the release of the first-ever $800 bottle of Washington wine. This ultra-premium price point arrives with the launch of the 2021 Naravane Cabernet Sauvignon from Rasa Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley. What makes the Naravane Cabernet so special? It represents the winery’s “namesake release,” spotlighting Billo Naravane’s finest barrels from the vintage. Here is part of Jeremy Young’s review in the International Wine Report

”Rasa Vineyards has earned an enviable reputation for crafting wines of extraordinary quality, but the recent release of their Cabernet Sauvignon marked a new pinnacle. I was compelled to award this wine a rare 100-point score—a testament to its near-perfect harmony of flavor intensity, structural balance, and complexity. This Cabernet is profound, with layers of nuanced aromas and flavors, seamless tannins, and an exceptionally long, memorable finish. It stands as a benchmark, not only for Rasa but for Washington wines as a whole.With a deep, radiant purple-red core and a vivid crimson rim, the 2021 Naravane Cabernet Sauvignon immediately commands attention—both visually and aromatically. This is a wine of stunning depth and detail, revealing an intricate aromatic mosaic that evolves with each swirl: ripe black cherries and wild mountain blackberries emerge first, followed by layers of dried rose petals, cedarwood, and crushed thyme. This is not only a pinnacle for Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, but one of the finest expressions of the variety being made anywhere today. This price tag places Naravane in previously uncharted territory for Washington. Never before has a domestic bottle from the state approached this ultra-premium range. It makes a bold statement, positioning Washington Cabernets on a global prestige level traditionally occupied by Napa icons.”

Reactions among enthusiasts have been mixed. On one side, Rasa’s decision is applauded for ambition and recognizing the maturity of Washington terroirs—indicating the state’s capacity to deliver wines that can stand alongside the world’s elite. On the flip side, a number of collectors and connoisseurs are questioning whether the experience truly warrants the price. I have mixed feeling about this. What is sure is it will be a niche purchase, reserved for the rich and for wine collectors.

The release taps into a growing trend for collectible, cult-status wines. Washington has steadily built a reputation for high-end Cabernets, such as the famed Quilceda Creek, which earned multiple 100-point scores and famously featured at a White House state dinner, yet none have crossed the $500-mark until now, making Naravane a new benchmark.

For wine lovers eager to glimpse the next frontier of Washington wines, the Naravane 2021 will be inaccessible because of price. However, it does offers an opportunity for some to taste a wine born of exceptional viticulture, precise winemaking, and bold ambition for the few—it’s a historic investment for collectors, but most of all it is demanding attention to the world-class nature of Washington wine.

How do I make my wedding reception perfect?

🌿 Aesthetic Appeal

• Unique or Scenic Setting: Vineyards, gardens, barns, art galleries, and historic buildings often feel special and memorable.

• Neutral Palette or Natural Beauty: These allow decorations to shine and make photos pop.

• Good Lighting: Natural light for daytime, warm ambient or string lighting for evening creates a romantic feel.

🛠️ Practical Features

• Indoor & Outdoor Options: Flexibility in case of weather changes.

• Restrooms, Parking, Accessibility: Often overlooked but essential.

• Prep or Catering Kitchen: Important for food service.

• Dance Floor Space: Either built-in or large enough for one.

• Noise Ordinance Compliance: So the party doesn’t have to end early.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Guest Experience

• Comfortable Capacity: Enough room for seated dinner, dancing, and mingling—not too tight, not too empty.

• On-Site Staff or Coordinator: Helps the event run smoothly.

• Lodging or Transportation Nearby: Especially helpful for out-of-town guests.

🍷 Only at Roland’s

• Ambiance: Wine barrels, string lights, rustic furniture, and great staff.

• Offers wine pairings or tasting stations for a personalized touch.

• We create a seamless flow: Ceremony in the courtyard, cocktail hour in the V.I.P. room, dinner in the barrel room.

How can you save money on your wedding day

Here are 5 of the most effective ways to cut costs without sacrificing the quality or experience of your wedding:

1. Choose Off-Peak Date or Time

• Save: Venues and vendors often offer significant discounts for weddings held on Fridays, Sundays, or weekdays, especially outside peak wedding season (May–October).

• Pro Tip: A brunch wedding or late afternoon ceremony followed by a cocktail-style reception can be just as elegant and more affordable.

2. Simplify the Guest List

• Save: Fewer guests mean lower costs on catering, rentals, table settings, favors, and even venue size.

• Pro Tip: Keep it intimate. Invite only those who are part of your current life and who will continue to be in your future.

3. Repurpose Decor and Flowers

• Save: Use ceremony flowers for the reception (e.g., altar arrangements become head table or buffet decor).

• Pro Tip: Go for in-season or local blooms, or mix fresh with high-quality faux florals to extend the look without the price tag.

4. Skip Traditional Formalities That Don’t Matter to You

• Save: Forgo things like printed programs, elaborate favors, or a multi-tier cake (opt for a small display cake and sheet cake in the kitchen).

• Pro Tip: Replace costly traditions with personalized alternatives — like a dessert bar instead of a cake, or digital RSVPs instead of printed ones.

5. Book a Venue That Includes Amenities

• Save: Venues that provide tables, chairs, linens, and even sound systems save you thousands in rentals.

• Pro Tip: Non-traditional spaces (wineries, art galleries, gardens) often offer more charm and built-in ambiance, reducing the need for extra décor. Roland Wines can help you cut costs on your amazing day. Call India Thompson at 360-431-0741

The Four Rules of the Psychology of Space

1. Novelty Stimulates the Brain

• Research in neuroscience shows that novel and visually stimulating environments activate the brain’s reward systems (particularly the dopaminergic system). This increases engagement, enjoyment, and memory formation. Best venues like Roland Wines is a novel and unique environment

• Example: A 2006 study in Neuron found that novel environments activate the hippocampus and boost learning and memory.

2. Aesthetic Environments Improve Mood

• Well-designed, aesthetically unique environments can boost mood, creativity, and satisfaction.

• Studies in hospital design, for instance, have found that patients recover faster and report higher well-being in rooms with art, views of nature, or more personalized decor compared to stark or sterile spaces. Roland’s is a space that boosts creativity

3. Design Impacts Perceived Value and Experience

• In retail and hospitality design, spaces with distinctive ambiance, thematic elements, and storytelling increase satisfaction, dwell time, and willingness to pay.

• This is part of what’s called the “experience economy” — people are drawn to experiences that feel crafted, intentional, and different. Roland Wines believes in people having a great experience

4. Environmental Psychology & Place Identity

• People form stronger emotional attachments to places that have a unique identity or narrative.

• This means a distinctive space is more likely to be remembered and is an opportunity to build community

How to pick the right place for your next meeting

What Makes an Ideal Meeting Venue?

Choosing the right venue can make or break your meeting. Whether it’s a corporate brainstorm, a strategy session, or a team celebration, the environment plays a huge role in setting the tone and ensuring productivity. So what makes an ideal meeting venue?

1. Atmosphere Matters
First impressions count. A great venue should feel welcoming, comfortable, and inspiring. Natural light, tasteful décor, and good acoustics can all help keep energy high and minds engaged.

2. Space to Think (and Breathe)
A cramped or noisy space is a recipe for distraction. Look for a venue that offers enough room for movement, breakout sessions, and some elbow room. Bonus points for outdoor access or flexible layouts.

3. Tech-Ready and Hassle-Free
From fast Wi-Fi to projectors and sound systems that actually work, having the right tools in place saves time and stress. An ideal venue is ready to support both virtual and in-person collaboration.

4. Refreshments & Hospitality
Nobody thinks clearly on an empty stomach. Good coffee, light snacks, or full catering options can go a long way toward keeping people focused and feeling valued.

5. Local, Unique, and Easy to Access
A memorable venue that reflects the character of the community—like a local winery, historic building, or creative space—adds charm and personality. Just make sure parking and directions are easy for everyone.

At the end of the day, an ideal meeting venue should spark connection, focus, and creativity. If it feels more like an experience than an obligation, you’re in the right place.

Summer Magic

Folk Favorites Sturtz Bring Intimate Harmonies to Roland Wines

Longview, WA — June 2025

Fans of warm harmonies and heartfelt storytelling are in for a treat as Boulder-based folk band Sturtz takes the stage at Roland Wines on Thursday, July 31st, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Known for their introspective lyrics and rich acoustic textures, Sturtz blends cello, guitar, upright bass, and easygoing vocals into a uniquely soulful sound. Their music draws influence from Americana, indie folk, and acoustic roots, making for an evening that's as emotionally resonant as it is musically engaging.

The performance promises more than just music—audiences can expect a night of stories, shared moments, and community. As the sun sets over the winery’s relaxed urban setting, guests can enjoy food and drink available for purchase, adding to the intimate, vineyard vibe.

“We’re thrilled to host Sturtz at Roland Wines,” says venue co-owner Marc Roland. “Their music aligns perfectly with the kind of evenings we love to create—laid-back, heartfelt, and filled with good wine and good people.”

The show is open to all ages, and seating is first-come, first-served. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the band, this is a rare opportunity to catch a rising folk act in a one-of-a-kind setting.

Don’t miss this special summer evening of folk songs and stories.

How to Choose the Perfect Party Venue:

Why Unique Spaces Like Our Winery Make Every Event UnforgettablePlanning a special celebration—whether it's a birthday, graduation, anniversary, retirement, or even a rehearsal dinner—starts with one big decision: where are you going to host it?The venue you choose sets the entire tone of the event. A cookie-cutter banquet hall might check the boxes, but it rarely leaves a lasting impression. That’s why more people are turning to unique, character-filled spaces like our winery to bring their milestone moments to life.Here are a few key things to consider when choosing the perfect party venue, and why our urban winery might be exactly what you’re looking for.

1. Look for a Space with Character and Charm

Standard event halls can feel, well, standard. If you're celebrating something meaningful, the space should feel just as special. Our winery combines rustic charm with modern hospitality in a quiet, tucked-away urban setting. Think twinkling lights under our covered pergola, wine barrels as décor, and lush greenery surrounding a vibrant outdoor courtyard. It’s a venue that instantly invites conversation, connection, and a warm atmosphere. Outdoor + Covered Options = FlexibilityLet’s face it—weather can be unpredictable. That’s why having both covered and open-air space is a huge plus. Our winery offers the best of both worlds: a cozy covered pergola for shade or drizzle, and spacious outdoor areas perfect for mingling, dancing, or just soaking in the sunshine. Rain or shine, your party is covered (literally).

2. Convenience Without Compromise

We're nestled in a quiet part of town, offering the peaceful vibes of a countryside getaway without the long drive. That makes it easy for guests to get here—no winding backroads or confusing directions—and even easier to stay and enjoy themselves. Built-In Amenities Save Time and MoneyOne of the most overlooked parts of party planning is how much effort it takes to source everything: tables, chairs, catering, sound systems, even a screen for a slideshow or video montage. At our winery, we’ve got you covered. We provide: tables and chairs catering options or open space for your own vendors, projection and sound systemFriendly, experienced hospitality staff all in one package, with no need to coordinate with a dozen different vendors.

3. Memories Are Made in unforgettable Spaces. At the end of the day, your event should be as memorable as the milestone you’re celebrating. Hosting your party at a winery gives it an elevated yet relaxed feel—people feel like they’re doing something different, something special.From toasting under the stars with your closest friends to snapping selfies against a backdrop of barrels and vines, your guests will leave saying, “That was one of the best parties I’ve been to in a long time.”Ready to Plan Your Party?If you’re looking for a venue that’s both beautiful and easy to work with, we’d love to show you around. Come see why our winery has become a favorite gathering spot for celebrations big and small.Let’s make your next event not just a party, but an experience your guests will talk about for years to come.

Call India Thompson 360-431-0471. Schedule a tour or inquire about availability today!

Host Your Next Event at Roland Wines – A Hidden Gem in Longview, WA

If you're planning a special event in the Longview area, let us introduce you to one of the community’s best-kept secrets: Roland Wines—an inviting, affordable, and spacious venue that’s perfect for everything from weddings to union meetings.

Whether you're gathering for a celebration or a corporate function, Roland Wines offers the flexibility and comfort to make your event seamless and unforgettable.

A Versatile Venue for Every Occasion

Nestled in a quiet and peaceful corner of Longview, Roland Wines is an ideal venue for both indoor and outdoor events. With room to seat up to our 80 guests, it’s perfectly suited for:

• Weddings & Receptions

• Baby Showers & Baptisms

• Birthdays & Quinceañeras

• Memorials & Celebrations of Life

• Business Meetings, Conferences & Trainings

• Graduations & Retirement Parties

• Political Events & Union Gatherings

• Classes, Seminars & More

If you're a planner, organizer, or just someone dreaming up the perfect gathering, this space offers a blank canvas with all the essentials.

Features That Matter

• Wheelchair Accessible

• Off-Street & On-Street Parking

• Flexible Layouts for Any Setup

• Stunning Outdoor Space – perfect for photos, ceremonies, or mingling under the open sky

• Affordable Rental Rates – ideal for events big and small

Your Dream Wedding Starts Here

Thinking about tying the knot? Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by serene landscapes and rustic charm. Whether you envision an outdoor wedding beneath the pergola or a cozy indoor celebration with family and friends, Roland wines provides a beautiful, flexible setting for your special day.

As a local winery that believes in the power of gathering around food, wine, and community, Roland Wines is proud to share our spaces with those looking to celebrate life’s biggest moments.

Schedule a Tour or Book Today

Don’t wait until dates fill up—Roland Wines is available now for tours and bookings. Whether you're a bride-to-be, an event planner, or simply searching for the right space, we invite you to see what makes this venue so special.

To schedule a tour or inquire about availability, reach out directly to India Thompson at 360-431-0741 today.

Cheers to unforgettable gatherings,
The Roland Wines Team