Barnard Griffin Winery

Barnard Griffin was founded in 1983 by winemaker Rob Griffin and businesswoman Deborah Barnard, making it one of Washington's oldest family-owned wineries. The venture began modestly, with borrowed grapes, a rented cellar, and an initial production of just 400 cases of Fumé Blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling. The winery grew steadily over the following years, establishing its permanent home on Tulip Lane in Richland in 1997. Rob Griffin is widely regarded as one of the most experienced winemakers in Washington State, with more than 40 years in the industry.

• Founded 1983 with borrowed grapes and a rented cellar
• First vintage comprised 400 cases across three white varieties
• Richland campus on Tulip Lane opened in 1997
• Rob Griffin has over 40 years of Washington winemaking experience

Barnard Griffin remains a true family operation. Rob Griffin serves as head winemaker and co-founder, while Deborah Barnard manages co-ownership alongside him. The next generation is already at work: Megan Hughes, daughter of the founders, has joined as a second-generation winemaker. Beyond wine, Deborah Barnard also runs db Studio, a fused glass art studio located on the Richland campus, giving the property a distinctive artistic character that sets it apart from many Columbia Valley producers.

• Rob Griffin, co-founder and head winemaker, leads production
• Deborah Barnard co-owns the winery and operates db Studio on campus
• Megan Hughes, daughter of the founders, is the second-generation winemaker
• The Richland campus added an on-site restaurant, The Kitchen at Barnard Griffin

Barnard Griffin sources grapes from multiple vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley AVA and produces wines across two tiers: the Signature and Reserve lines. The portfolio spans a wide range of varieties including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Sangiovese, Syrah, Riesling, and Albariño. The barrel-fermented Chardonnay and Rosé of Sangiovese are among the most recognized wines. The winery is particularly celebrated for its accessible pricing without sacrificing quality, a philosophy that has defined the brand since its founding.

• Portfolio includes Signature and Reserve tiers
• Grapes sourced from multiple Columbia Valley vineyards
• Varieties include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Riesling, Albariño, and Sangiovese
• Known for high quality at accessible price points

Barnard Griffin has earned consistent recognition at major wine competitions. The Rosé of Sangiovese stands out as a flagship achievement, a repeated best-rosé winner at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. The winery's track record of award wins across its portfolio has cemented its reputation as one of Washington State's most dependable producers. This recognition spans both white and red varieties, reflecting the breadth of Rob Griffin's winemaking expertise across Columbia Valley fruit.

• Rosé of Sangiovese is a repeated best-rosé winner at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
• Consistent award recognition across major competitions
• Recognition spans multiple varieties and both Signature and Reserve lines
• One of Washington's most decorated family-owned producers