Introducing Wapiti Cellars
Published on April 29, 2021
This past fall, one of the first wineries to move into the District Wine Village just in time for harvest was Wapiti Cellars. Moving in during construction and making wine on the new crush pad, Gustav Allander, Winemaker for Wapiti Cellars is getting his wines ready for us all to enjoy this summer on the patio.
Here is a little about Gustav and why he chose the District Wine Village as the home for his winery.
Wapiti Cellars was started in 2011 by former Foxtrot Vineyards winemaker and founder Gustav Allander and partner Nadine Allander. With the main focus Viognier, Wapiti also produced single bottlings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the last vintage produced in 2014. After leaving Foxtrot in 2019 Gustav decided to start his own winery focusing on premium single vineyard wines exclusively for Wapiti Cellars.
What made you choose District Wine Village?
When District Wine Village was announced it was the perfect concept and facility for what I wanted to do with Wapiti Cellars. “District Wine Village offers a unique opportunity to craft special boutique wines with state of the art equipment in a special community atmosphere under the Wapiti Cellars label”. – Gustav
What is it about the Village concept that you were most excited about?
The Wine Village creates an environment for winemakers to craft wines in a community of other great wineries. It allows us to offer a truly unique experience for wine lovers. It is truly exciting.
What are the first wines to be released this summer?
The initial offerings available this summer will be a Viognier, Gewürztraminer and a Merlot Rose.
Sticking to his passion for great Pinot Noir, Winemaker Gustav Allander also has a Pinot Noir currently aging in barrel for release spring 2022. Additionally, to be released in 2022, there will be a Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
All of the wines will are made in a style reflective of the respective terroirs and made to be food friendly.
Key Team Members:
Gustav Allander – Winemaker