Not to brag (well, maybe a little) but Washington produces some of the best wine in the country, if not the world. Washington is the second largest wine-producing state in the U.S., with more than 17,000 acres of producing vineyards found in the Yakima Valley. And the Yakima Valley happens to be where some of our best wineries are as well.
If you're a fan of wine, you know wine tasting here is more than a simple pastime — it's an all-out hobby. A sport. A vibe. And many of our local wineries, especially these three Yakima Valley spots, offer so much more to visitors than just amazing vino (although there's plenty of that, too).
1. As soon as you walk up to the entrance of Treveri Cellars, you can tell there's something special about it.
You'll often be greeted warmly by the staff, asking if you're there to taste, shop, or enjoy a meal (or perhaps all three).
Treveri Cellars is a family-owned sparkling wine house that produces some of the best sparkling wine you'll ever taste — and thanks to the way it's made, you can enjoy your sips without that telltale "champagne headache." It's science!
When you visit, you can pull up a seat in the lobby, or head upstairs to a special lounge for Bubbles Club members.
Treveri mainly focuses on 100% varietal sparkling wines, such as Sparkling Riesling and Rose.
You'll also spot some unique options like sparkling Syrah. The wine has quite a reputation—it has been served at White House State Department receptions, the James Beard Foundation in New York, and countless local and national events. The best part is, it's surprisingly affordable. You'll pay less for a good bottle of Treveri than you will a mediocre bottle of grocery store bubbles.
Treveri always serves tasty food, like charcuterie and other snacks — but their weekend brunch is absolutely stellar (and pairs perfectly with bubbles).
When the weather allows, taking a seat on their outdoor patio allows you to take in sweeping views of the valley you won't see anywhere else. In the winter, you can enjoy a unique igloo dining experience with a private server.
2. You'll find Gilbert Cellars in Yakima's rural West Valley neighborhood, surrounded by peaceful vineyards and orchards.
The property could not be more perfect for hosting events, weddings, classes, and other celebrations. Since the Gilbert family and their team believe that wine evokes a sense of community, hospitality, and beauty, it seems that they're in the perfect place.
You're welcome to come for a tasting anytime, although you'll want to make a reservation if you have a large group (the tasting room is open daily, although hours vary).
The winery often hosts special tasting classes, parties for club members, and food truck-focused gatherings, so you can expect to make plenty of new friends when you visit.
The Gilbert Cellars calendar is full of fun events all year long, but if you go during the summer, check out the Music in the Vines series.
The summer series features some seriously talented artists playing in June and July.
Music in the Vines concerts are for adults only, and you can purchase your favorite wine on-site.
And thanks to local food trucks serving delicious dinner options like Hoptown Pizza, you won't have to pre-pack a picnic (although you can if you'd like).
3. You may have seen Owen Roe wine at local Washington restaurants and wine shops, but visiting in-person will make you fall in love with it even more.
Since 1999, this place has been welcoming guests to the rural Wapato location for tastings and events.
The tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and you can choose between an indoor or an outdoor experience.
If you time your trip right, you may even be offered a tour of the property, which is both informative and fascinating. You'll finish with a whole new appreciation for winemaking.
The outdoor tasting area will lure you with its scenic views, seasonal lavender, and laid back vibes...
... and it's also where many of the events take place.
From Namaste for Rose Yoga to special wine dinners, you'll see a little bit of everything on the calendar here. Also, children are not only allowed, but welcomed. Their seasonal event, Family Funday Sunday, brings live music and tasty food to the winery for some family-friendly fun.
Visiting Washington's wineries, especially spots like Treveri, Gilbert Cellars, and Owen Roe, goes way beyond the good wine you'll taste. Do you have a favorite local winery?
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