Our Story
Where We Started A family legacy rooted in Washington wine
In an era where many successful wineries and wine brands are becoming corporate-owned, Thurston Wolfe Winery takes pride in its independent ownership by Wade Wolfe. He established the winery alongside Rebecca Yeaman in 1987.
Our Legacy Rooted in heritage, Growing with purpose
Now with our 2ⁿᵈ generation, our family has been making wine with one guiding belief: make an approachable and uplifting experience.
We explore the most complementary vineyards in Eastern Washington, collaborating closely with nature to produce bright, expressive wines that reflect the vibrancy of their origins. Under the leadership of Josh Wolfe, we are excited to embark on the next chapter of our journey, continually seeking untapped possibilities. We honor our heritage while crafting a future that is as unforgettable as the wines we create.
Foundations in Viticulture (1976–1984)
Wade completes his PhD at UC Davis, gains early industry experience in Arizona and Washington, and rises to Director of Vineyard Operations at Ste. Michelle, helping expand major vineyard acreage.
Winery Beginnings (1985–1991)
Wade leaves Ste. Michelle, meets Becky, and they marry and launch Thurston Wolfe in Yakima. They establish their identity with unique dessert wines while Wade consults and later joins Hogue Cellars.
Growth & Innovation (1996–2003)
The winery relocates to Prosser, partners in planting Zephyr Ridge Vineyard, produces pioneering WA Pinot Gris and the first Dr. Wolfe’s Family Red, and later introduces the popular PGV blend.
Expansion & New Facility (2004–2010)
Wade transitions full-time to Thurston Wolfe, builds the winery’s modern Prosser facility, boosts production, and expands distribution beyond Washington.
Next Generation & Regional Focus (2015–2020)
Josh joins the business, Chris Wright becomes assistant winemaker, and the winery shifts focus back to Pacific Northwest distribution. Despite COVID-19 shutdowns, sales remain strong due to loyal customers.
Transition & Legacy (2021–2025)
Winery reopens post-pandemic, faces loss of Becky, reaches peak PGV production, begins vineyard transitions, and hires Collin Meharg as Wade’s successor, marking the next chapter for Thurston Wolfe.
Our Team Decades of hands-on winemaking and leadership
Dr. Wade Wolfe Owner & Head Winemaker
Wade Wolfe is the owner and winemaker of Thurston Wolfe Winery. He holds a B.S. in Biochemistry and a Ph.D. in Plant Genetics from the University of California at Davis, where he also studied viticulture and enology. His career includes roles as Research Viticulturist and Viticulturist at Chateau Ste. Michelle, and General Manager at Hogue Cellars. In 1987, he co-founded Thurston Wolfe Winery and currently focuses on winemaking while publishing articles on the Washington wine industry.
Wade has received several awards for his contributions to the Washington wine industry, including the 1993 Alec Bayless Award, the 2000 Dr. Walter Clore Award, and the 2002 Industry Service Award.
Josh Wolfe 2ⁿᵈ Generation Owner & General Manager
Josh Wolfe, son of Wade Wolfe and Becky Yeaman, is the Sales Manager at Thurston Wolfe Winery, focusing on brand promotion and distributor relations. His responsibilities include increasing retail and restaurant exposure, participating in trade shows, and managing social media presence. Josh graduated from WSU in 2015 with a degree in Hospitality Business and a minor in Sales Economics. He gained experience in vineyard nutrient experiments and wine production early on, working in a boutique winery and later in event planning and hotel management.
His diverse skills in relationship building and negotiation contribute to his role at the winery. Josh aims to grow and promote his family’s dream of creating exceptional wine.
Chris Wright Assistant Winemaker
Chris Wright is the Assistant Winemaker and General Cellarhand at Thurston Wolfe. A Long Island native, he earned a Geology degree from Hobart College in 1986 and worked as an Environmental Consultant in NYC. Chris began homebrewing in 1988 and moved to Idaho for graduate studies, where he worked for the Idaho Geological Survey. In 1991, he relocated to Richland, Washington, gaining exposure to wine tasting and working as a field geologist. After various roles, including GIS development and project management, he volunteered at local wineries. In 2014, Chris enrolled in the winemaking program at Walla Walla Community College, interned at Thurston Wolfe, and joined them officially in 2017. He lives in West Richland with his wife, Allison, and enjoys traveling, biking, sailing, and fencing.
Collin Meharg Assistant Wine Maker
Collin Meharg is the newest member of Thurston Wolfe's production staff, hailing from Longview, WA. He discovered the wine industry while studying Chemistry at Central Washington University, where he also majored in Wine Studies. After graduating, he began his career in laboratory roles at various wineries. Collin has worked in multiple positions across different wineries, including a stint in Marlborough, New Zealand, and served as Assistant Winemaker at Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery. Outside of work, he enjoys family time and recently welcomed his daughter Alana with his wife Zilia, after moving to the Tri-Cities in 2022.
Carmen Michener DTC Manager
Carmen Michener found her way into the wine industry because she loves how wine brings people together over good food, laughter, and conversation. She has completed WSET Levels 1 and 2 with distinction, blending knowledge with a genuine passion for wine. When she’s not at the winery, Carmen is most likely planning her next trip, spoiling her dogs, or showing off her skills by winning at trivia night.
Christina Aguirre Tasting Room Lead
Christina Aguirre relocated to Washington State in 2011, moving from Texas. She attended Yakima Community College (YVC) and obtained her degree in Viticulture. Her passion for agriculture led her to the wine industry, where she delights in merging her love for the land with the pleasure of sharing wine. Currently, she is enrolled in the YVC Winery Program, continuously broadening her knowledge in wine and various other fields. Christina holds a Level 2 certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and finds inspiration in travel, conservation, and new experiences, which she brings back to the winery for fresh perspectives. When she’s not at work, Christina enjoys traveling or spending quality time at home with her family.
