About Tommy Bigelow
Growing up in a family winery, my winemaking journey began long before I could drink wine. My parents, John and Peggy Bigelow, started JM Cellars when I was six years old. I was intrigued by the wine industry from that moment and decided to dive in upon graduating from the University of Washington in 2015. I knew the Washington wine industry was my final destination but wanted to broaden my scope of knowledge by making wine around the world. From 2015-2021, I made wine in Argentina, Australia, South Africa, Napa, Walla Walla and Woodinville, working with 15 different winemakers as well as four vineyard managers. During that time I also graduated with an Enology and Viticulture degree from Walla Walla Community College. Bigelow Wines has been in the making for nine years and I am grateful to share my dream with you through wine, stories and celebrations!
Bigelow Wines
The magic of the winemaking process revealed itself to me while working in the vineyards of Walla Walla. For this reason, all of the wines under "Bigelow Wines" are made from vineyards and grapes that I have worked with in the past. This connection from root to glass drives my passion. Each wine is named after a poem that I have written, representing that time in my life with a connection to the wine in your glass. These wines are a complete expression of me. The release parties will be the same!
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The Key - self discovery
The Door - step into your power
Reflect - understand your past to free your present
Summer Friends
Summer Friends is a line of rosés and white wines that lives very close to my heart. Partnering with my friend and co-worker in 2023, Amy Garofano and I have created this fun summer label with the intention of giving back. We have both been afforded the freedom to travel the world throughout our lives, and we know that this is a privilege not afforded to everyone. Through this label, we will be sponsoring wine workers from South Africa to come and work in Washington State. The first recipient will be Giovanni Williams, someone who has become family to both of us. We know that new perspectives through travel can be life changing and we want to help those who would otherwise not be able to have such an experience. Here's to the friendships that last a season or a lifetime!
