Charles Smith

Charles Smith is the visionary winemaker behind iconic Washington State brands like K Vintners and CasaSmith. With over 300 scores of 95 points and above—and more than 1,400 scores of 90-plus—Charles has redefined what it means to make world-class wine from Washington. His journey began humbly in 1999, when he sold 330 cases of his first vintage, K Syrah, out of the back of his 1987 Astro van.

Before becoming a “rockstar winemaker,” Charles spent a decade in Europe managing rock bands after discovering wine while working in restaurants at age 19. Returning to the U.S., he opened a wine shop on Bainbridge Island, but soon realized he wanted to create wines, not just sell them. A road trip to Walla Walla in 1999 changed everything—Charles listened, learned, and made his first vintage with little more than grit and passion.

Over two decades later, his impact is undeniable. Charles created and later sold beloved brands like House Wine, Charles Smith Wines, and Substance, home to Kung Fu Girl Riesling, Boom Boom Syrah, and The Velvet Devil Merlot. His accolades include Food & Wine Winemaker of the Year (2009), Wine Enthusiast Winemaker of the Year (2014), and Wine Spectator Top 100 placements (#2 and #13 in 2017).

Today, as founder of House of Smith, Charles crafts honest, sustainable wines from 100% Washington grapes—ZERO pesticides, ZERO herbicides, native yeast fermentation only. Ever the visionary, Charles Smith continues to make wine for the people—bold, authentic, and undeniably Washington.