Our Story A Family's Dream Come True

After 30 years in the fast-paced corporate world, Mark and Tami were looking for a change. Knowing that they would retire in the Chelan area, they became intrigued with the idea that they may someday pour wine at the local wineries. So they decided to make wine as a hobby.

Their first batch of wine—which came from 400 pounds of grapes fermented and stored in their basement—was a huge hit among their family members, who complimented them on the wine’s complexity. Twelve cases were produced that year. 

The Garvins enjoyed the process so much that they made more and more barrels every year. As their operations expanded, so did their dreams. They began searching for properties in 2013 and immediately fell in love with the first property they toured. Although it was eight acres of grass, the park-like setting with lake and mountain views felt like home.

In the years following the purchase of the property, Mark and Tami have spent their time making wine, building a tasting room, and planting vines of their own. What was once a hobby turned into a full-time operation, and they began selling their wine online and out of a small tasting room on the property. 

Nearly 15 years after they were first inspired to open a winery, the Garvins have recently opened the new Tipsy Canyon Winery tasting room, where they’ll host musical guests, community events, and private functions in the beautiful indoor/outdoor venue. Far from the 400-pound harvest from their first batch, the Garvins crushed more than 37 tons of grapes in the 2020 season. They hope to be able to grow 25% of their own grapes in the coming years.