Barrister Winery began with two lawyers…
Greg Lipsker and Michael White were vacationing with their families in British Columbia. En route, they stopped in a local shop to buy wine and walked out with a five-gallon Zinfandel wine making kit.
Five gallons turned into fifty gallons, which then turned into crushing 1½ tons of grapes in Greg’s garage in 2000. Validation came when they submitted their wine to the Indy International Wine Competition and walked away with three golds and a silver medal. Their passion ignited, Greg and Michael forged ahead with a mix of trial and error, conversations with local vintners, and courses at Walla Walla Community College. In 2001, the two lawyers decided to name their new business after the British word for lawyer; Barrister Winery was launched.
As Barrister grew, so did the accolades. Vintage after vintage won awards, including “Best of Show” at the prestigious Los Angeles Wines of the World competition. As well, Barrister Wines claim consistent 90+ point scores in the industry’s most prestigious wine magazines.
As the winery grew, the need for an assistant was apparent. Tyler Walters, knowing nothing about wine, but willing to learn and committed to creating a welcoming winery experience was a great fit. Tyler has been helping make Barrister wine since 2009. Now part owner, Tyler is fully immersed in all things Barrister. As Barrister has grown, passion for great winemaking has always been at the forefront of the business. But, the relationship with customers and community has always set Barrister Winery apart.
In November 2015, Barrister opened its second Tasting Room, located at 203 North Washington Street, across from the Davenport Grand Hotel in downtown Spokane. This location features a selection of our wines at an easily accessible location for downtown shoppers, sight-seers, and theatre goers.



Testimonials
The talk around town about Spokane's premier winery.

“Class act! From the wine they make to the events they put on... Keep up the great work. You guys and gals rock!”
James Davis

“Barrister always has phenomenal wines! If you join their membership you get complimentary tastings and access to all their fun events...You should go ahead and join if you are even considering it.”
Sean Thomas

“What an incredible venue! Wonderful wine-tender and met an owner who showed us around. Great wine, great ambience. Thank you!”
Jennifer Yurechko
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Unless otherwise noted, all images provided by Ifong Chen Photography.