Becoming Hard Row to Hoe

Judy and Don Phelps had a dream of starting a vineyard and growing grapes in the Lake Chelan Valley. With their family and environmentally focused wine at the forefront of their plans, in 2005, the Balsamroot Winery label was born, despite those who advised against it. It was believed the severe winter temperatures would likely kill the grapevines.

With Judy’s extensive knowledge of our neighboring regions' success in British Columbia and its very similar climate, there was no way this was stopping them from challenging the odds. 

Lo and behold, the vines were thriving in our climate and the region officially gained AVA status for wine growing in 2009. Surrounded by some of the finest apples, cherries and pears for over 100 years, finding a place for exceptional grapes in this valley is just one more honor North Central Washington holds. 

Approaching 2008, the family rebranded their label to Hard Row to Hoe. Their new risqué branding pays homage to the old farming term, as well as a notorious part of Lake Chelan history. It is not unusual in remote mining areas to find a story about a local brothel, and Lake Chelan is no exception. Rumor has it that a long-time Manson resident ran a rowboat taxi service from Lucerne to Point Lovely in support of the thriving enterprise.

Today, you can enjoy an exceptional glass of wine and hear the notorious stories of the professional ladies that moved to Edgemont Lodge to “serve” the miners from the Howe Sound Mine. Look closely while you are visiting, and you may notice some of our creative wine label titles and risqué decor that is often hidden from the naked eye! 

Judy and Don’s intentions remain the same from where they started to where they landed today and their hope is that their wines will always bring you back to the sun-drenched shores of Lake Chelan.