Dame Gina Carey
“A strong woman looks a challenge dead in the eye and gives it a wink.” Gina Carey’s words describe 16-year #LesDamesSeattle member Patricia Gelles perfectly. She started out on another continent with a different life in mind and ended up at the top of the mountain, both literally and figuratively.
Patricia was born in London and pursuing a career in Public Relations / Marketing when she met an American scientist, her husband David. In 1974, his career brought the young couple from Europe directly to the Tri-Cities, where they purchased a fixer-upper home.
David became friends with Westinghouse co-workers Jim Holmes and John Williams, who saw the potential in growing grapes on Red Mountain. In 1975, Patricia and David helped the innovators plant the first Red Mountain vineyard, Kiona.
As the years passed, Jim heard that there was a large swath of Red Mountain acreage on the southwest slope for sale. He called the Gelles with the news and shared that Napa Valley winemaker, André Tchelistcheff, had said it was the best land on Red Mountain to grow Cabernet grapes. After much debate (including the decision to be growers, not winemakers, in order to have time to focus on family), they purchased the land in 1982, and planted 40 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc in 1984.
Klipsun Vineyards, derived from the Chinook word for “clipped sun,” grew to 120 planted acres and seven varieties, quickly gaining a standing as a top Washington state vineyard. The demand for grapes by elite winemakers also skyrocketed as they gained a cult-like status. Honors followed as Klipsun was named as one of the Top 25 Vineyards in the World by Wine & Spirits magazine.
In 2017, Terlato Wines International, a leading importer and marketer based in Chicago, purchased the respected vineyard.
“After 35 years, I could see the handwriting on the wall. Today there is a lot more competition selling wine grapes,” said Patricia. “I loved what we created and met lots of really interesting people along the way, but it was time.”
David and Patricia decided to stay in West Richland. An avid traveler, Patricia and her daughter traveled to Mexico City in early March to attend LDEI Mexico chapter’s “Flavors of Mexico.” Although grounded due to the pandemic, she looks forward to hitting the road with David as soon as it is safe. Meanwhile, she keeps busy enjoying life and family.
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