Prosser is the historic heart of Washington’s first wine appellation and home to Dr. Walter Clore, Washington States’ wine pioneer. He began growing European wine grape varieties in a small experimental block in the late 1930’s at Prosser’s WSU Irrigated Agriculture and Research Extension Center (IAREC). Dr. Clore convinced growers in the late ’60’s – early 70’s, that vinifera wine grapes could be grown successfully. By the time he retired in 1976 his work blossomed to include over 312 varieties.
Currently, Prosser is seeing rapid growth in the wine industry. There are over 75 wineries within a 50-mile radius, making Prosser the ideal home base to explore “Wine Country”. A large majority of Prosser wineries are located within and between two winery cluster developments, the Prosser Wine and Food Park, I-82, Exit 82, and the Prosser Vintner’s Village located near the I-82 Exit 80, Gap Road interchange. The parks and two mile corridor between them, house over 20 wineries and the site of the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center.
When visiting Prosser, one may experience the quaint atmosphere of a small boutique winery/tasting bar or choose to visit one of the larger wineries that have decided Prosser is the “hottest” emerging wine country location in Washington State and solidified it’s ranking as one of the top 5 emerging wine investment regions in the US.
TOURISM
Prosser has gained a solid reputation as one of the northwest wine country’s premium getaway spots. Over 50,000 visitors annually experience the area wineries as well as special and unique events that take place throughout the year. Prosser’s 300 days of sunshine annually and only 7-8” of rainfall, offers prime, wide open spaces for hiking, backpacking, cycling, boating, and fishing. For event and tourism information visit Prosser Chamber of Commerce
Prosser Wine Town, Washington Wine Country Ezine gives it’s take on Prosser.