Top 5: Wineries in Lake Chelan, Wash.

Lake Chelan is a popular vacation spot for western Washingtonians looking to escape the drizzle and catch some sun. And it also happens to be an incredible up-and-coming wine destination, thanks to a unique climate and soil make-up that lend subtle, mineral notes to the grapes and create a perfect balance of flavors.

Among the best wineries wielding these elements into award-winning labels are:

Rocky Pond

Rocky Pond, with its newly-built downtown tasting room and two vineyards, is a relative newcomer to the scene, though the family behind the brand has been growing wine for much longer.

Vin Du Lac

Vin Du Lac gets bonus points for also serving excellent farm-to-table dinners to pair with its wines. You can also visit the tasting room separate from the restaurant.

WineGirl Wines

WineGirl Wines, located on the eastern shore town of Manson, takes the best grapes available and coaxes impressive complexity and balance.

Mellisoni Vineyards

Mellisoni Vineyards is perched on steep hillsides overlooking the lake. The sunny tasting room and lawn encourage lingering.

Cairdeas Winery

Cairdeas Winery is an artisan producer specializing in Rhone varietals, all crafted with an eye toward environmental sustainability.