Gilles Nicault Named 2026 Auction of Washington Wines Honorary Vintner

We are thrilled to share that Long Shadows founding winemaker, Gilles Nicault, has been named the 2026 Auction of Washington Wines Honorary Vintner. The recognition celebrates Gilles' more than three decades of contribution to Washington wine and the lasting imprint he has made on the Columbia Valley.

Gilles is joined in this year's honors by Luanne Holden-Boushey of Boushey Vineyards, named 2026 Honorary Grower in recognition of her decades of dedication to the Yakima Valley. Congratulations to Luanne as well.

Now in its 39th year, the Auction of Washington Wines honors individuals whose leadership has helped shape the state's wine industry. This award has recognized the best of Washington viticulture and winemaking, and we can't think of a more deserving recipient than Gilles.

Raised in southern France and trained in viticulture and enology at the University of Avignon, Gilles built his early career across Provence, the Rhône Valley, and Champagne before arriving in Washington in 1994. He joined Long Shadows in 2002 as the winery's founding winemaker, and in the years since, he has helped develop a portfolio recognized by wine lovers and critics around the world.

What has always set Gilles apart is his rare ability to bring old-world instinct to new-world terroir. He has worked alongside some of the most respected winemakers in the world, learning from each collaboration and channeling those influences through the distinct lens of Washington's land and climate. The result is a body of work that reflects both his roots and his deep respect for Washington.

"This recognition belongs to the vineyards, the grapes, and the people I have been fortunate to work alongside," Gilles said. "Washington has given me everything as a winemaker, and I am grateful every day for what this land makes possible."

Gilles will be honored at the Auction of Washington Wines August events, including the Winemaker Picnic on August 14th at Chateau Ste. Michelle and the Gala on August 15 at The SOMM Hotel and Spa in Woodinville.

We are honored to have Gilles at the heart of Long Shadows, and we look forward to celebrating alongside him in August.