By Lindsay Peyton
Wine tasting doesn’t have to be paired with a long drive.
Instead of road tripping to Napa or trekking to Walla Walla, West Seattle residents can sample the fruits of “urban wineries” right in their own backyards.
Ben Viscon makes wine in the neighborhood – and pours selections from Viscon Cellars weekly at his tasting room located at 5910 California Ave SW. The shop is open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and during the West Seattle Art Walk.
“We’re making an in-city experience, with a local product,” Viscon said. “We bring the grapes into West Seattle, create the product here, and then we’re able to share it with neighbors and friends.”
Originally from El Paso, Viscon has a background in retail management, working at Dillard’s, Starbucks and REI. His most recent post was working with an advertising agency in Seattle.
Viscon started making wine in 2004. He was inspired to give it a try after volunteering at other wineries and vineyards.