Wines of WA in One Place
Washington wine is undeniably special. In a relatively short time frame, Washington state wine has gained a respected reputation for producing world class wines that are fruit forward, complex and age worthy.
They are created from an abundance of grape varieties and made in wine styles that over deliver in both quality and price point.
Washington’s wine industry and vine vine acreage have grown over the years. The depth of knowledge and experience by all members of the wine industry along with a better understanding of climate, soils and geology, have leveled up Washington as a whole.
The collaborative spirit of the grape growers, enologists and winemakers, partnering with sommeliers and tasting room team members, has helped accelerate the state’s growth. But it’s the unique landscape that truly sets Washington state apart from all other wine growing regions.
The majestic Cascade Mountain Range separates grape growing eastern Washington from the urban populated western Washington. The Cascades create a rain shadow effect that keeps the wet weather to the west, and creates an arid desert-like climate to the east, which is perfect for growing world class grape varieties.
Mixed in nutrient poor soils, mostly from the Missoula floods, over a basalt foundation, the grapes spend the growing season absorbing and abundance of sunshine offered from the extra-long northerly latitude days.
A large diurnal temperature swing will drop temperatures 30-50 degrees F, letting vines rest at night and helping to retain the much needed acidity, a key component to a wine’s structure. All these ingredients equal up to well-crafted, delicious Washington wines.
Now, let’s double down and recognize another unique and important area and wine community that has set Washington wine apart: Woodinville Wine Country “The Place Where Washington Pours.” Located in western Washington about 30 minutes east of Seattle it’s here where you can gain a true sensory experience of what Washington wine has to offer by tasting the wines of 120+ individual wine tasting rooms.
All have an excitement to share their wines, stories and specialties with a goal of bringing wine and people together.
What makes Woodinville Wine Country even more special is that it represents 19 of the 20 current American Viticulture Areas (AVA’s) of Washington state in a compact area. As the Washington wine industry grows with experience, subtle nuances are discovered that set growing areas apart.
It’s here you can taste the various AVA’s and discover how the particular flavor profiles of and AVA can resonate with your individual palate. Therein lies a great opportunity to hone your tasting skills, taste a wide array of wine styles and learn from fun and knowledgeable tasting room team members who are extremely passionate about wine.
The diversity of tasting rooms in Woodinville Wine Country means there’s something for everyone. Ranging not only in size, but in wine styles and atmosphere. You might taste amongst a winemaker in the warehouse and artisan hill districts, or opt in to a formal guided wine flight experience in the Hollywood district, pick up a glass pour or share a bottle with friends and family…the options are endless.
Breweries and distilleries form an important part of Woodinville Wine Country as well and have made a name for themselves. With world class beverages comes food, and here you’ll find a plethora of dining options from taco trucks to Michelin Star restaurants. In Woodinville we’re reminded of how unique this area is. Wine is meant to be enjoyed. With friends and family, it’s even more special.
Finding a tasting room that fits just right and with wines that match perfectly with your individual palate is happiness. I hope you’ll come and experience just how truly special Woodinville Wine Country is and come sip the wines of “Where Washington Pours.”
