our roots

When we set out on this wine venture in 2000, we hadn’t even given Copeland Vineyard its name. In fact, when our family made the decision to add a vineyard and winery to its storied farming portfolio, we were merely “the help” (tractor drivers, forklift operators, El Ranchito take-out retrievers). Sure enough, our childhood “summers on the farm” eventually became “life on the farm” as we became increasingly involved with the new and exciting wine project.

Even before we began making wine, we were drawn to the experience of it. Our fondest memories were those of family and friends accompanied by lively conversation, laughter and an intriguing assortment of wine.

It soon became evident that we had not so much found our calling, but it had found us. One could argue that four generations of Yakima Valley farming pulsing through our veins predisposed us to dirty fingernails and an inherent love of the land. We couldn’t agree more.

So, when life and a heavy dose of fate provided us the opportunity to make the winery a true test of our brotherly love, we jumped at the chance and purchased it from our family in 2006. What was once Schmidt Orchards, planted by our grandfather, Phil Schmidt in 1951, became Copeland Vineyard that we planted with our uncle, Ron Schmidt, in 2000.

Fast forward to now, and you will find us living, breathing and drinking our work. We offer a versatile collection of estate grown wines. Our unique “working facility” exudes a welcoming, approachable and educational experience for all wine-lovers. Our name, Two Mountain Winery, was inspired by the majestic views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier, which serve as the backdrop of Copeland Vineyard.

At the end of the day, it is our job to make wine. It’s in our best interest to make good wine. We really like doing it, for us and for you. (Plus, we’ve been self-employed for too long – nobody would hire us now!)