Washington wine country is spread out all over the state, from Walla Walla to Bainbridge Island. But these closer-in wine destinations make a day plenty of time.
To taste, enjoy and soak in Washington's wines and wine country, it doesn't take a week. It takes only a day when you visit these centrally located wine destinations that bring you right into the action of winemaking without taking you halfway across the state.
Chateau Ste. Michelle - Woodinville, WA
Just seeing the chateau and grounds at Chateau Ste. Michelle is worth the short drive to Woodinville. That doesn't count the great wines, the concerts and outdoor events and the welcoming attitude of the staff. The oldest winery in Washington state, Chateau Ste. Michelle is also one of the biggest producers in the Columbia Valley.
Some of the advantages of a bigger winery are classes offered on the property, a wine club and evening events all year long. In the summer, the winery hosts outdoor concerts and through the colder seasons, they host wine and cheese tastings. The winery is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, and only closed on some holidays. Tastings and tours are offered regularly.
Bainbridge Island Vineyards & Winery - Bainbridge Island, WA
Many Washington wine enthusiasts don't think of the Puget Sound as a legendary wine-producing area, but the terroir of this area creates unique wines that are picking up speed in the world of wine. Bainbridge Island Vineyards & Winery, a short ferry ride away from Seattle, is proof of that.
They produce several varietals, including a strawberry wine and a raspberry wine that are flavored with fruit from the property. They're open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Fridays, Saturday and Sundays and they're now located in a new building adjacent to their vineyards.
Hoodsport Winery - Hoodsport, WA
This winery offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Hood Canal. Pair that with their award-winning wines and you've got a day trip that's hard to beat. In addition to their award-winning wines, which are made in small batches, they make cordials, coffees and truffles that pair well with their wines. There are regular wine events held at the winery, and in 2008 they will celebrate their 30th anniversary.
Carpenter Creek Winery - Mount Vernon, WA
Carpenter Creek is in the wine region of Red Mountain, which is known for its rich wines. This boutique winery is in the Skagit Valley and offers seven acres of scenery surrounded by tall trees and, of course, Carpenter Creek. The winery produces less than 3,000 cases each year, believing in quality over quanity every time, and they encourage guests to enjoy their time on the property, having a picnic down by the creek or spending time in the tasting room.
Tasting and tours are available year round. Carpenter Creek Vineyards in only an hour north of Seattle by car, which means visitors can go, enjoy themselves and still be home for dinner.
