Our Story
Our story starts with a love of wine. More than just having a glass at the end of the day, but the
incredible combination of science and art and a deep-seated belief in the historical significance of wine.
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Wine really is the liquid of life!
Why Turtle?
The name "Turtle" holds a special significance in memory of my father. He was an avid diver who often took me underwater when I was younger, and one of his favorite stories to tell was about the time I nearly collided with a turtle.
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We were both swimming peacefully, me looking over my left shoulder and the turtle over his right, each of us unaware of the other's presence until the very last moment. As my father used to recount with great humor, "You started flippering away as fast as you could, and the turtle did the same!"
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My father cherished that story so much that one day, out of the blue, he suggested that I should name my future winery "Turtle." His suggestion wasn't just about the amusing encounter but also about capturing the spirit of our shared adventures and the joy of those moments together.
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Naming the winery "Turtle" is a heartfelt tribute to my father, encapsulating the essence of our bond and the passion he instilled in me for both storytelling and the wonders of nature.
Winemaker
David Hess's journey into winemaking began in his early years, driven by a passion that started as a childhood dream. Despite initial skepticism from his family, David demonstrated his commitment by planting his first grape vines at the age of fourteen, albeit just three vines, which unfortunately were not sufficient for wine production.
Undeterred, David continued to pursue his passion through his education, focusing on math and science in high school and eventually pursuing a degree in Viticulture and Enology at Washington State University. This formal education provided him with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of winemaking.
After graduating, David embarked on a global journey to further hone his craft, gaining invaluable experience at various wineries and vineyards around the world. His travels took him to prominent wine regions in Washington, California, New Zealand, and Australia, where he immersed himself in the diverse practices and techniques of winemaking.
Through dedication and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, David Hess not only realized his childhood dream but also established himself as a skilled winemaker with a deep understanding of the art and science behind creating exceptional wines. His journey underscores the importance of passion, education, and hands-on experience in achieving one's aspirations in the world of winemaking
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Vinum Negotium
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David's brother, Scott, plays a pivotal role at Turtle as the financial expert. He earned his degree in Finance from Oklahoma State University before embarking on a career in small business development. Following several years with a major firm, Scott ventured out on his own, establishing an accounting company dedicated to aiding small businesses with business development and tax matters.
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Scott's expertise and experience make him invaluable to Turtle. He manages the paperwork and financial intricacies that allow David to focus on winemaking without distraction. His commitment to supporting the business behind the scenes ensures that Turtle operates smoothly and efficiently, complementing David's passion for crafting exceptional wines.
Customer Support
Our final partner is Nala, our beloved Customer Support Representative and resident All-American. While her primary duty is safeguarding Turtle wines from any would-be sip-stealing predators, her daily routine mostly involves shadowing David, eagerly anticipating her next snack and nap.
Her endearing presence ensures that along with her vigilant watch over the wines, there's always a dose of companionship and charm at Turtle.
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Walla Walla
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Turtle is located in the city so nice they named it twice, Walla Walla, WA. The name originates from the Nez Perce tribe, meaning "many waters," a nod to the numerous streams that wind through the region on their way to the Columbia River.
Visitors to Walla Walla will discover these charming streams meandering through yards and an aqueduct cutting through downtown.
Renowned as one of America's top wine destinations, Walla Walla has garnered acclaim, including the prestigious #1 spot on USA Today's readers' choice list for three consecutive years.
Beyond its celebrated wines, Walla Walla offers a wealth of fine dining experiences and boasts award-winning parks and a revitalized downtown area that captivates visitors. As members of the Walla Walla community, we at Turtle take great pride in our surroundings and warmly invite you to experience this remarkable city firsthand.
Come and explore Walla Walla—it's a destination you won't want to miss.