Chris Stiffler & Tosh Forrence of Le Doubblé Troubblé Wine Co (LTD Wines)
Photos Coutesy of LTD Wines
Two friends, three passions, is a tagline for Le Doubblé Troubblé Wine Co, or LDT Wines as it is often called. The two friends are Chris Stiffler and Tosh Forrence, and the three passions are wine, skiing and trouble. Chris and Tosh met on an Alpine Meadows chairlift in 2011 during an epic snowstorm. They shared a passion for wine and skiing, and were known for getting in trouble on the slopes. Over 4 or 5 bottles of wine, they hatched a plan for their own winery. Tosh had a degree in winemaking and had worked harvests all over the world and Chris’s degree was in Economics. When Tosh had an opportunity to purchase some Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir grapes in 2014, the two friends implemented their plan with 150 cases and LTD Wines was born in the Willamette Valley. In 2016, they jumped at the chance to move to White Salmon, WA for better skiing logistics, and their tasting room is today a favorite gathering place for both locals and tourists.
Each LDT wine has a distinct label, but they all are instantly recognizable as LDT by color and design. They convey the message that wine is fun and relaxing rather than intimidating and elitist. The tasting room does the same with its ski related décor, including a chairlift for seating and a bathroom sign that says, “Unload here.” The wines, however, are seriously good. No shenanigans when it comes to winemaking. The Grüner Veltliner and Grenache Rosé are as good as you will find anywhere in the state and beyond. Tosh is partial to Pinot Noir, and makes two from Columbia Gorge vineyards and two from Willamette Valley vineyards. Hear about these and other excellent LTD wines and fun stories in this amazing interview.
Listen to the Interview: