what ’ s working
Westport Winery co-owner Carrie Roberts ( right ) and a customer take a selfie with a “ Mermaids Drink Free ” sign .
Kim graduated from Washington State University with two bachelor ’ s degrees in architecture . She then moved to Westport to open an art gallery and design business , meeting Blain through one of her clients . Kim moved to join Blain in Maui , where he ran a scuba diving business and she worked as a boat captain .
After five years , the Roberts moved back to the mainland and purchased farmland in Leavenworth and then Spokane , growing alfalfa , oats and timber . Retirement brought them back to Grays Harbor , where they settled into a waterfront home . One problem . “ We were super bored ,” Kim said . They found their next project : 21 acres of undeveloped land off Highway 105 that would become Westport Winery Garden Resort . A county extension agent , who knew of the couple ’ s background in tourism and farming , suggested a vineyard and winery .
The winery , which now purchases its grapes from Eastern Washington growers , has earned national and international acclaim . It was named one of the top 20 most admired wineries in North America in 2017 and Washington Winery of the Year in 2022 .
Slowly , the winery began to grow . It opened the Sea Glass Grill , following the success of food and wine pairing events . Then came the Ocean ’ s Daughter Distillery , which switched to making hand sanitizer during the pandemic .
The International Mermaid Museum was the next venture . The nonprofit museum , located on the winery grounds , teaches ocean ecology through mermaid mythology . It
“ My husband and daughter supported my creative aspirations . They were always there for me helping implement the ideas , putting the brakes on the bad ideas . That ’ s the real value of having strong , intelligent and honest partners .”
— Westport Winery co-owner Kim Roberts
24 association of washington business