Wines and Vineyards around Yakima WA
Yakima Valley is located in Yakima, WA – not to be confused with Western Australia. My good friend, Nick, who is an experienced roof cleaner in Perth, got a kick out of it when I thought he was from Washington state. Yakima Valley produces excellent fresh fruit, vegetables and amazing wines! A trip to Yakima’s vineyard’s is a must-do when visiting this region.
the Yakima Valley is part of the larger Columbia Valley wine region, which extends into neighbouring areas like the Walla Walla Valley and Red Mountain, offering even more options for wine enthusiasts. Be sure to check the individual wineries’ websites or contact them directly for current hours of operation and tasting room availability.
9 Popular Vineyards in Yakima Valley WA
While it’s challenging to say which are the absolute best vineyards in Yakima, some popular vineyards and wineries in the Yakima Valley that are often highly regarded by tourists and wine connoisseurs include:
1. Red Willow Vineyard: Red Willow Vineyard is known for its high-quality grapes, particularly Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Several prestigious wineries source their grapes from this vineyard.
2. Owen Roe Winery: Owen Roe is known for producing a range of exceptional wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, often using grapes from the Yakima Valley.
3. Two Mountain Winery: Two Mountain Winery offers a variety of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. Their estate vineyards are in the Yakima Valley.
4. Kiona Vineyards and Winery: Kiona has been producing wine in the Yakima Valley for decades and is especially renowned for its red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
5. Côte Bonneville: Côte Bonneville specialises in crafting Bordeaux-style wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, from their estate vineyards in the Yakima Valley.
6. Hightower Cellars: Hightower Cellars is known for its premium Bordeaux-style wines and is located in the Red Mountain AVA, which is part of the Yakima Valley wine region.
7. Gilbert Cellars: Gilbert Cellars produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, with a focus on small-batch, handcrafted wines.
8. Treveri Cellars: If you’re a fan of sparkling wine, Treveri Cellars specialises in producing high-quality sparkling wines using traditional methods.
9. Zillah Lakes Inn and Winery: This winery offers a unique experience, combining accommodations with a vineyard, making it a great place to stay while exploring the Yakima Valley wine region.
Yakima Valley Most Common Wine Grapes
Yakima-produced wines are made from a diverse range of grapes. There’s something for everyone. White wine grape varieties commonly produced in Yakima include Riesling, Chardonnay, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, while red wine ones include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah (Shiraz), Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Grenache.
What else to do in Yakima Valley
The Yakima region has a lot to offer in terms of what to do! There are “U-pick farms’ where you pay a fee and pick your own produce. Berries and lavender farms are a hot pick (pun-intended) for this activity.
If you are interested in outdoor activities, the choice is vast! As Yakima enjoys a drier climate and less rainfall compared to other parts of Washington state, it’s an ideal spot for hiking, skiing, kayaking, mountain biking and more.
Final Thoughts: Is Yakima worth a visit?
Most definitely so!
With beautiful landscapes and amazing fresh produce, food and wine, Yakima Valley is most definitely worth a visit.