Jones of Washington is a family-owned winery, with estate vineyards located along the Columbia River in central Washington State. As one of the first families to farm these productive and scenic lands, we watch over our estate vineyards and world class grapes as if they were a son or daughter. The same commitment is applied to our artisan wines, which receive the love and attention only people closely tied to the land can provide.
In the early 1950s, W.E. (Web) and Millie Jones began farming potatoes, just as the “spigot” was turned on releasing water from Grand Coulee Dam via canals to the Columbia Basin, which was part of the largest water reclamation project in the United Sates. Quincy had long been home to sandy soils, but scant annual rainfall made it virtually impossible to grow crops. What were once arid and dry lands were quickly transformed into an oasis.
The Jones’ first farm lands were east of the town of George and north of what is now Interstate-90. Potatoes were sold from the community of Winchester, located just east of Quincy.
Over the next few decades the family operation, led by son Jack Jones, harvested in addition to potatoes — corn, beans, onions, apples and several other crops. As others began farming in the area, the Columbia Basin evolved into one of the most productive and diverse growing areas in the entire United States.
Always looking for new challenges, Jack entered the world of viticulture in 1997. He designed and planted various vineyards in the Wahluke Slope Appellation and the first grapes Jones sold were to a large Western Washington winery looking to expand production. It was clear to Jack, that with such quality estate grapes available, he should create a start-up boutique winery. Thus, in 2001 Jones of Washington was born and the winery released its first wine, a 2001 Merlot in 2003.
The timing was good — Jack Jones’ diversification into vineyards came just as the Columbia Basin was gaining itself a reputation as one of the best wine grape locations in the nation. Since then the Jones family has also went on to establish vineyards in and around the Ancient Lake Appellation near Quincy, which has become home to many of our award-winning white wines.
Today, the Jones family owns several vineyards in the Quincy and Mattawa areas while playing an integral part in the winery and vineyards.
Jack’s efforts were recognized in the spring of 2012 as Jones of Washington was selected as the Washington Winery of the Year by Wine Press Northwest Magazine out of nearly 700 operating wineries at the time. In the summer of 2023 Jones of Washington was honored with the recognition of MVP (Most Valuable Producer) by Washington State Wine Awards / Seattle Wine Awards. Jones of Washington now offers over 20 different wines annually and is currently available in 8 states.
Our artisan wines at Jones of Washington are meticulously crafted, exemplifying the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, drawing inspiration from both old world and new world techniques. From the moment our grapes are carefully handpicked in our vineyards, we ensure only the finest fruits are selected for the production of our flagship wines.
What truly sets our wines apart is the remarkable diversity and range of flavors they possess. Each vineyard we cultivate offers a unique character, resulting in an exquisite collection of wines with distinct personalities. From vibrant and crisp whites to bold and full-bodied reds, our portfolio showcases a kaleidoscope of flavors and styles that cater to every discerning palate.
To maintain the integrity of our wines, we employ state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. Our 100% temperature-controlled tanks are meticulously monitored to create the perfect environment for crafting exceptional crisp whites that burst with freshness. For our full-bodied reds, we employ the art of small lot barrel aging fermentation, allowing for the development of complex and robust flavors that tantalize the senses.
At Jones of Washington, we take great pride in producing premium wines which embody the essence of our vineyards and the passion of our winemaker. Each bottle is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of vinous excellence.
When our award-winning winemaker Victor Palencia was hired by Jones of Washington in 2008, he was but 23 years of age. But don’t let that number fool you. By the age of 13, Victor was already working among the grapes, following his father who tended vineyards in the Prosser area of Washington State, and as a kid he would work in the vineyards after school.
Three years later — at an age when most teens are just learning to drive — Victor was a mainstay at Prosser’s Willow Crest Winery, thanks to owner Dave Minic who gave Victor access to his winemaker and then brought him aboard as an employee. After graduating from Prosser High School, Victor attended Walla Walla Community College, where his studies were focused around the college’s renowned wine-making program. He ended up being the first in his family to earn a college degree.
After a return to Willow Crest, Victor joined Jones of Washington as head winemaker in 2008 — at the young age of 23. Under his winemaking tenure, Jones of Washington has won numerous medals and awards, including “Winery of the Year,” while he continues to stay close to the land and vineyards. Victor is quick to point to one main reason for the success — the Jones vineyards in what is arguably one of the best wine-grape regions in the West. Victor credits his family, which includes eight siblings, as well as other winemakers in Eastern Washington, for helping him along the way.
Ken served in the Navy and retired from Boeing after 27 years where he was a manager in Quality Control. Mara has always been in the restaurant business as an owner/manager. At the young age of 17, she owned 3 pizza restaurants in Indiana and then moved to San Diego and opened a Roasted Chicken Restaurant. Mara met Ken in San Diego, got married and then moved to Washington in 1981. This is where they opened and managed 26 Keg Steakhouse & Bar Restaurants for over 20 years. Mara’s first meeting with Jack Jones in 2006 was to work with him and Megan in branding Jones and opening the first tasting room. Her and Ken have been operating the Quincy Tasting Room since 2007.
Beth and her husband Larry relocated to Wenatchee in 2017 after 30 years of “west side” living. Beth primarily worked in the social services field and Larry owns a retirement planning business. They have two adult children and one granddaughter. Beth began her journey with Jones in 2018 as a tasting room associate. In September, 2023 she became the tasting room manager. Beth and Larry enjoy spending time on the slopes, the river and the many other beautiful places this valley has to offer!