Summit on Red Mountain

06/14/2024

Read a wonderful review about some amazing wines from our neighbors, Avennia. Guests staying at The Summit on Red Mountain can literally walk across the gravel road to visit their tasting room. It’s one of our favorite things to do.

Avennia

It seems like every month I am writing about the wines by Avennia — one of the Pacific Northwest’s consistently great wineries. This time I am the first to present the wines from their Estate Vineyard on Red Mountain. Of course it was nearly three years ago that Avennia made some big waves by acquiring the Tapteil Vineyard on Red Mountain. The 45-acre site was one of the first vineyards planted on Red Mountain, by longtime owners Larry and Jane Pearson. This has become the Avennia Estate Vineyard where Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the dominant plantings, with some vines dating back to 1985. There is also a small amount of Cabernet Franc planted here which is the oldest of its kind on Red Mountain. The site is managed by Dick Boushey.
Avennia's Chris Peterson is one of the region’s great winemakers. Formerly at DeLille Cellars, he partnered with Marty Taucher to form Avennia more than a decade ago. These are the inaugural wines from their estate vineyard and are the finest set of overall wines that I have ever tasted from them. I am enamored by the 2021 Avennia ‘Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc (OB, 98) which is one of the great Cabernet Franc wines that you will taste in Washington and really in North America. Heady, deep and concentrated with a silky texture, this will easily last 20 years. Learn more about Avennia at https://avennia.com and here are my reviews of the fantastic new ‘Estate Vineyard’ wines by Avennia.

2021 Avennia ‘Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- This is the first edition of this wine that comes form the Avennia Estate Vineyard on Red Mountain. At this site only a small amount of Cabernet Franc was planted back in 1988. The nose is wonderfully herbal with sagebrush and thyme alongside dark cherry and boysenberry notes, with dusty soils. The palate is fresh and refined with a silky texture and beautiful sense of freshness, weight and length. A total stunner, this is truly one of the great wines of its kind in Washington State. Keep in mind that this really needs a two hour in the decanter if savoring in its heady youth. Drink 2024-2044- 98

2021 Avennia ‘Estate Vineyard’ Red Wine- The phenomenal 2021 ‘Estate Vineyard’ Red Wine is an incredible release by winemaker Chris Peterson. Mainly Cabernet Franc (59%) with 37% Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this offers violets, tar and to***co leaf on the nose with scorched earth notes. The palate is plush and seamless with good concentration and great underlying finesse. This is seamless stuff throughout the drinking experience. Very savory and delivering fantastic flavor and aromatic range, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next twenty years to come. Give this an hour or two in the decanter of enjoying now. Drink 2024-2044- 98

2021 Avennia ‘Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A marvelous wine from a great vintage for red wines, the 2021 Avennia ‘Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is up there with the finest wines that this house has ever produced. On the nose this exudes class with black rose petals that mingle well with fresh sage, dark chocolate shavings, graphite, black plum and shades of loamy soils. The palate is plush and neatly textured with good flavor density and weight. Delicious and bright, showing excellent verve, enjoy this beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2024-2044- 98

05/28/2024

This is exactly our ‘why’ for hosting guests at The Summit on Red Mountain ❤️
If you’re looking for an amazing place to stay on Red Mountain with your friends or family, we’ve got you covered.

05/18/2024

If you’re looking for a luxury rental on the Red Mountain AVA to stay with your friends or family as you explore the surrounding world class wineries and all that the nearby Benton City, Tri-Cities and Prosser have to offer, we (Jennifer Rodriquez and Brian Lawenda) welcome you to book your stay or event at The Summit on Red Mountain.

Booking through Airbnb
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1058868788277149234

Send a DM to Amber Lilly Event Rentals and Design to inquire about event planning

This 3000 square foot sanctuary, nestled atop the Red Mountain AVA and encircled by picturesque vineyards, offers a unique blend of serene vineyard life and modern sophistication.

Architectural & Amenities:
• Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Four elegantly designed bedrooms, each boasting award-winning Saatva mattresses, floor-to-ceiling windows with one-touch motorized shades, closets, and 3.5 lavish bathrooms equipped with heated toilet washlets and radiant heat floors, spacious showers, and a soaking tub overlooking the vineyards for a sublime relaxation experience.
• Open Floorplan: Expansive living space framed by north and south-facing walls of windows offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding vineyards and natural splendor.
• Gourmet Kitchen: A culinary haven fully equipped with high-end appliances, a walk-in pantry, an in-counter bottle cooler, and an ice maker, perfect for casual and gourmet cooking.
• Outdoor Amenities: A built-in BBQ area, an in-ground, sunken hot tub with panoramic views, and an outdoor gas fire pit.
• Electric car charger: Universal Tesla fast charger.

Your Hosts: Jenni & Brian
After relocating from Las Vegas in 2016, we found our calling in creating luxurious, memorable hospitality experiences. Our journey in hospitality began with the success of our highly-rated short-term rental in Walla Walla, The Cropp Mansion https://www.vrbo.com/1623764
• Jenni Rodriguez: With her roots in Las Vegas and a background in medical marketing, Jenni brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to hosting. Her experience in nursing and construction management has instilled in her an eye for detail and a commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Brian Lawenda: Brian, a radiation oncologist with a distinguished 13-year career in the US Navy, infuses his dedication and love for the region into every aspect of The Summit. His keen interest in providing a relaxing, high-end, eco-friendly retreat is evident in the property's meticulous modern Japandi design, energy efficiencies and amenities.

Our commitment to providing a sophisticated, serene, and luxurious experience is unwavering. "The Summit on Red Mountain" is not just a place to stay; it is a destination that offers tranquility, refinement, and proximity to an array of activities while also providing a haven away from the bustle, allowing you to immerse in the vast beauty of the mountain and its vineyards.

We eagerly await the opportunity to host you in this luxurious vineyard retreat, where sophistication, comfort, and nature blend seamlessly to provide an unparalleled experience.

Warm regards,

Jenni Rodriguez & Brian Lawenda

05/14/2024

Can’t beat this view from our hot tub 😍 at The Summit on Red Mountain

05/11/2024

The aurora over was amazing!

05/01/2024

The Summit on Red Mountain is developed on the former homestead of the legendary winemaker of Blackwood Canyon Winery, Michael Moore. Over the last few years, we have heard and read stories from visitors about their experiences to the “Old School Tasting Room.” Here’s a bit of the history compiled from those stories, blogs and online posts (please add your own stories if you visited):

Perched on the rugged slopes of Washington's Red Mountain AVA, Blackwood Canyon Winery is remembered not only for its distinctive wines but also for the unforgettable character of its founder, Michael Taylor Moore. Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1956, and later thriving in California's vibrant viticultural scene, Michael's educational journey through Humboldt State and UC Davis ignited a deep passion for winemaking.

Prior to founding his own winery, Michael's professional experience included positions at several prominent wineries, where he further honed his skills and deepened his understanding of the wine industry.
—Louis Martini Winery
—Domaine Chandon
—Ventana Vineyards
—Claar Cellars
—Kiona Winery

The diverse experiences allowed him to blend traditional practices with innovative techniques, a synthesis that became the hallmark of Blackwood Canyon Winery. His passion led him to establish Blackwood Canyon in 1981, where he quickly became one of Red Mountain's pioneering vintners.

Embracing Old-World Techniques with a Twist:

Michael Moore was a staunch advocate for traditional winemaking methods, favoring natural processes and shunning the use of modern machinery. His techniques included eschewing filters, pumps, and sulfites, and relying on extensive sur lies aging, which allowed his wines to develop rich complexities naturally. His artisanal approach ensured that each bottle of Blackwood Canyon wine was a testament to the terroir of Red Mountain.

The Tasting Room Experience: Where Eccentricity Meets Education:

Every visit to Blackwood Canyon was a unique adventure, beginning with the whimsical signs guiding visitors along a winding road to a tasting room that seemed frozen in time. The tasting room itself was a cavern of curiosities, filled with eclectic decor that included everything from antique farm equipment to quirky, makeshift art pieces.

Michael Moore's hosting style was as unconventional as his decor. Known for his theatrical flair, Michael might begin a tasting by theatrically uncorking bottles with an old fencing saber, a practice that never failed to amuse and engage his guests. His deep, narrative-driven descriptions of each wine's journey from grape to glass captivated his audience, making every sip a story.

Unforgettable Encounters, Humorous Moments, and Canine Companions:

Visitors to Blackwood Canyon often left with tales that felt more like tall tales than typical winery visits. Here are a few memorable vignettes:
- The Great Wine Hunt: One autumn, Michael decided to age some wines "naturally" by burying them around the property, only to forget their exact locations. This led to an impromptu scavenger hunt, with guests and staff alike wandering the vineyard with shovels in hand, each hoping to unearth a bottle of aged treasure.
- The Pirate of Red Mountain: On special occasions, Michael would don a pirate hat and refer to himself as "the pirate of Red Mountain," claiming his wine was as sought after as buried treasure. This persona added a layer of amusement and fantasy to the tastings, particularly when he’d swashbuckle around with his saber, opening bottles and regaling his guests with tales of vinous adventures.
- The Cheese Incident: Once, during a particularly crowded tasting, Michael, in his usual fashion, began slicing cheese with a large, somewhat intimidating hunting knife he kept specifically for such occasions. In his enthusiasm, he managed to flip a piece of cheese directly into the ceiling fan, causing an impromptu shower of dairy that left guests in both shock and hysterics.
- Canine Capers: Michael's dogs were as much a part of the winery as the vines themselves. These friendly but mischievous canines often greeted guests with exuberant barks and wagging tails. One memorable incident involved a particularly cheeky dog who decided to contribute to the ambiance by playfully stealing guests’ hats during a tour. Another time, a dog's loud, unexpected bark coincided perfectly with Michael attempting a particularly delicate wine pour, resulting in a comical spill that Michael insisted added "character" to the wine.

The Spirit of Blackwood Canyon:

Despite the eventual closure of Blackwood Canyon in 2011 due to financial struggles, the winery's spirit lives on through stories and the deep impact it had on those who experienced it. Michael Moore's legacy is not just in the bold wines he crafted but in the laughter, joy, and sense of wonder he brought to the art of winemaking.

Michael Moore’s approach—marked by a blend of rigorous adherence to tradition and a zest for life—continues to inspire wine enthusiasts and winemakers alike. Blackwood Canyon Winery, under Moore's stewardship, was more than just a winery; it was a place where wine was an adventure, each visit a chapter in a rich narrative of creativity, passion, and eccentricity. His legacy endures, painting a picture of a winery where every bottle tells a story and every visit is a memory, often punctuated by the playful antics of his beloved dogs.

04/22/2024

is starting to come alive with bud break in the vineyards. Book your stay and be amongst the first guests at our brand new vacation rental and event venue.

04/20/2024

Probably the best hot tub vineyard view there is 😍

04/20/2024

Celebrate your friendships at The Summit on Red Mountain
Book your vacation today.

04/19/2024

Book The Summit on Red Mountain for your next vacation rental or event. This incredible property surrounds you and your friends with the unique experience of staying amongst working vineyards and world class Red Mountain AVA Alliance winery tasting rooms that are just minutes away.
We invite you to look at the listing https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1058868788277149234 or contact our event coordinator Amber Lilly Event Rentals and Design. We look forward to sharing this special home with Red Mountain visitors.

04/18/2024

Your private front row seats overlooking the Red Mountain AVA Alliance from The Summit on Red Mountain.
Just add some close friends and 🍷
Doesn’t get much better than that.

04/17/2024

Nestled amongst the Red Mountain AVA Alliance vineyards with incredible views of the valley, The Summit on Red Mountain is truly a remarkable property to enjoy with your friends and family if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or event venue in a unique location.

04/16/2024

We know many of our guests will be putting to good use this gorgeous kitchen.

04/15/2024

Celebrate special occasions at The Summit on Red Mountain
Book your stay
https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Y4xsyqIX

Get an Airbnb for every kind of trip → 7 million vacation rentals → 2 million Guest Favorites → 220+ countries and regions worldwide

04/14/2024

Book a vacation at The Summit on Red Mountain with your friends.

04/12/2024

Developing The Summit on Red Mountain with our designer/builder Aaron Magula Dream Builders LLC has been one of the funnest and easiest projects we have undertaken. We simply gave him photos of various architectural and interior design ideas to work with, and after a bit of iteration and infusion of his excellent ideas, he came up with CAD drawings that look nearly identical to our fully completed and beautiful home. Importantly, he stayed on budget and close to the original predicted completion date. We couldn’t recommend any designer/builder more 👏🏻🙌🏻

We are excited to share this beautiful property with our guests for their events and vacation rentals starting May 1.

Photo credit: James Cavanah KREADIVØNE

04/11/2024

No better time than today to book your stay at The Summit on Red Mountain.

Come for the world class Red Mountain AVA Alliance wineries that are literally only a few minutes away, take in the incredible views, book a wagon-ride wine tour or a peaceful trail ride through the vineyards with Red Mountain Trails and just relax. We can’t wait to hear from you.

For event inquiries, contact Amber Lilly Event Rentals and Design

04/10/2024

Now that’s a firepit! Relax with your friends by our sunken firepit, enjoy your glass of 🍷and take in the view 😍

04/03/2024

We are looking for a chef to cook dinner for Saturday May 11th for 10 people at the Summit on Red Mountain house. Please DM us if you’re interested.

03/30/2024

Nearly done! A few more outdoor projects to complete, and furnishings to get delivered but The Summit on Red Mountain is almost complete! We can’t wait to host our first guests in May!! Booking is currently available for your Red Mountain AVA and surrounding winery vacations and hosting events.

—DM us for details on hosting events.
—Book your vacation stays here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1058868788277149234

03/25/2024

Enjoying the views from the sunken fire pit (installation in progress)

03/14/2024

HUGE custom steel fireplace cap designed by Dream Builders LLC installed. Gorgeous 😍

03/12/2024

Enjoy a visit and tasting at the beautiful Col Solare Winery— a 4 minute drive from the Summit on Red Mountain.

Col Solare is one of Red Mountain's most significant growers of cabernet sauvignon in Washington. Overseen by winemaker Stephanie Cohen, the Col Solare 2021s are concentrated yet elegant from one of the hottest growing seasons that Washington has seen. Read more in our annual Washington report for free on JamesSuckling.com.

03/09/2024

Front entry landscaping in progress.

03/07/2024

Our bathrooms have pendant lighting, heated tile flooring, heated and hygienic toilet washlets , and lots of natural light.

03/06/2024

The gas fireplace will make our guests feel nice and cozy while relaxing in front of the large framed flat screen TV (coming soon).

12/16/2023

Dusk

12/05/2023

The wine maker, Michael Moore (whose Red Mountain property we transformed into The Summit on Red Mountain) was described as one of the best in the world by Tom Clancy. Thanks to Amazon, a couple of years ago, I was able to find his out of print novel. “Moore’s cheap stuff alone was better than most other wineries expensive vintages. And with the exception of maybe two other places in the world, one in Spain, one in France, nobody could touch his expensive ones… He was something of a renaissance man, Moore was. He thought of himself as an alchemist, and considering that he turned water into a wine that eventually turned more or less into gold, it wasn’t a bad description.” —Tom Clancy, Net Force, State of War.

There are many stories of Michael Moore we’ve heard since acquiring this beautiful piece of land. We plan to pay a thoughtful and positive homage to his memory.

11/20/2023

The cabinetry is getting installed, the ground is getting prepped for more concrete and the bathroom tile work is about to start. Looks like we are still on schedule for completion in the next couple of months. The video starts with the west facing view through the large window in the primary bathroom and ends with a view of the house and valley from the south.

We know our guests are going to fall in love with Red Mountain, the world class wineries and want to come back time and again to stay at The Summit on Red Mountain.

11/11/2023

Thank you to everyone who served 🇺🇸 (Owner of The Summit on Red Mountain, former US Navy Commander Brian Lawenda with his father, Ken Lawenda). We are very grateful to our Veterans 🙌🏻