Where Wind Shapes the Wine: Meet Baro of Lyle

Baro Wine sits atop a windy ridge at the eastern edge of the Columbia Gorge AVA in Lyle, Washington, just 13 miles east of White Salmon.

The name Baro, short for barometer—comes from the area’s unique high barometric pressure, which often redirects the rain and moisture, and is a nod to the philosophy of paying attention to subtle shifts in nature and letting the wines reflect their own internal balance. Strong dry winds also help the vines grow deep and healthy, naturally limiting mildew and allowing for gentle, sustainable farming.

This small, intentional winery is producing roughly 1,500 cases, and is proud to join the ranks of esteemed Columbia Gorge producers like Domaine Pouillon, Syncline, and COR Cellars—wineries known for their commitment to craft, place, and innovation. As part of this vibrant winemaking community, Baro brings a fresh perspective rooted in the region’s unique terroir and driven by a passion for natural, expressive wines.

Eric Blossman

Originally from the Gulf Coast, Eric Blossman’s love for windsurfing first brought him to the Columbia River Gorge in 1998. After years of visiting, he and his wife made the move permanent, drawn by the region’s natural beauty and lifestyle. With a background in engineering and a family connection to the brewing industry, Eric had long dreamed of starting something of his own in the world of craft beverages.

In 2022, that dream took root when he began making wine as a hobby. A chance introduction to winemaker Sam Hutchens led to a collaboration that would become Baro Wine. Their first vintage debuted in 2023, marking the beginning of a new chapter—one shaped by wind, craft, and a deep love for the Gorge.

Sam Hutchens

At the helm in the cellar, is winemaker Sam Hutchens, whose approach is as thoughtful and grounded as the wines he crafts. With a hands-off style and minimal intervention, Sam believes in allowing the wine to “be what it wants to be.” That means wild yeast, minimal sulfur, and no additives—just honest, expressive blends that showcase the land and the fruit.

Sam’s journey into winemaking began in 2013, working in a vineyard just outside of Bellingham. From there, he immersed himself in fermentation, taking on roles at breweries and wineries across the Northwest. He spent over two years as the head fermentation specialist at a Gardenpath Fermentation in Burlington, WA, refining his palate and deepening his curiosity for natural processes.

Before landing in the Gorge, Sam worked harvests at Bayernmoor Cellars in the Puget Sound AVA, where he helped tend six acres of Pinot Noir. His interest in the Columbia Gorge AVA grew naturally from there, bringing him to work a harvest in 2022, which further anchored his commitment to this region.

His ties to the Gorge run deeper than just wine—Sam’s dad grew up here, and his grandfather worked at the Willard sawmill. Summers were always spent exploring the area, so putting down roots here feels like it’s come full circle.

Sam and Eric focus on blends over single varieties, and each is a reflection of the land, the season, and the hands that crafted it. Even the rosé—the only single varietal currently produced—tells a story. Fermented and aged in amphora, the grapes spend 18 hours on the skins before being gently pressed and left to rest in clay.

In 2023, Baro Wines released its first vintage. Using a mix of neutral oak barrels, including Oregon oak, the winery also incorporates handmade amphora from Novum Ceramics. These vessels from Beckham Estate—crafted by Andrew Beckham himself—create a unique aging environment that contributes to Baro’s distinct style.

Sam doesn’t believe in forcing wine in any particular direction. Instead, he lets each batch evolve with minimal interference. “I do less,” he says. “I don’t like to push wines to be something they’re not. I want them to sing. To be what they want to be.”

Taste Baro Wines by appointment, and beginning June 14th, on Saturdays from 12 to 4 PM.

www.baro.wine

713.582.9733

101 Lyle Snowden Road, Lyle, WA 98635