Great Wine! Great People!

I often am asked “what is a fun wine itinerary for a long weekend”. Most people expect that I will say “Napa” and I must say that it is on the top of the list. But if you are looking for a long weekend wine get-a-way with personality and warmth, Walla Walla Washington is truly the place.

Walla Walla is in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The area has over 1.800 acres of grapes and is the home of over 100 wineries with tasting rooms. In the center of town is a cute historic district filled with great restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and of course, tasting rooms.

The residents, which include 100s of winemakers, are friendly and very proud of their community. Walla Walla was just named by Rand McNally THE friendliest small town. And I must agree with the vote, no where will you find a warmer, friendlier, relaxed community.

http://union-bulletin.com/stories/2011/07/21/and-the-winner-is-ww

Arrive in Walla Walla and stay at my personal favorite, Girasol Vineyard & Inn. The Inn is located in the vineyards with sweeping views of the Blue Mountains. Not only is the location ideal for wine tasting but the owners, Michele and Edward are gracious and make the best breakfast you will ever eat! Very romantic! Very luxurious! www.casagirasol.com

By day, head to a few of my favorite wineries for tastings – I recommend limiting your day to 3 wineries and mixing in a little people-watching at a downtown café or a little down time at Girason Vineyard & Inn with a good book.

A few wineries to note for that special Walla Walla experience:

Pepper Bridge Winery – Wine & Spirits magazine called Pepper Bridge a Top 100 Winery worldwide. Amazing wines, charming winemaker and very friendly wine educators await you. Make your reservation for a cellar tour to see a state-of-the-art, gravity flow facility complete with subterranean caves – I learn something new every time I take this tour! For reservations call 509-525-6502. http://www.pepperbridge.com/tasting-room/

Va Piano – This is a MUST taste on my trips to Walla Walla. Make an appointment for this Tuscan themed winery by calling 509-529-0900. Justin and Liz Wylie have created a very special place to enjoy full bodied reds that showcase Walla Walla’s fruit. Their mottos, “take your time, enjoy yourself, and participate fully in the beautiful journey”. http://www.vapianovineyards.com/index.php

Dusted Valley – My friends at Dusted Valley truly are representative of Walla Walla. Four farm-raised Wisconsin Cheese-heads, that love wine. Theirs is a story of family coming together to pull off the American Dream… and the wines they are produce are wines they like to drink…and so do I ! Be sure to check out their wine club called the Stained Tooth Society, super fun club and free. http://dustedvalley.com/membership/

Waters – Small production of highly acclaimed wines. Sleek reds and easily my favorite Rose! Tasting fee is $5 but refundable with purchase…and trust me, you will purchase. waterswinery.com

Basel Cellars Estate – This is a one-of-a-kind experience. I would not be able to do justice in describing the Estate with its breathtaking views; handcrafted woodwork and eclectic style so don’t leave this winery off your itinerary.

Northstar – Dave “Merf” Merfield is the young winemaker/rock-star at Northstar. His wines are first-class and the tasting experience is very informative. Stop at Salumeria Gourmet Grocery and pick up a picnic lunch to eat while you hang out on the patio at Northstar overlooking the vineyards and the Blue Mountains. Call in advance to book your tour and tasting. http://www.northstarwinery.com/visiting/

In the evening, you can’t go wrong with one of Walla Walla’s acclaimed restaurants such as Saffron and Whitehouse-Crawford. But first visit the local wine bars located on Main Street where you are sure to be sitting next to a winemaker. Don’t be afraid to approach them, these “rock stars” are genuinely warm people with a passion for their craft.

Have a spectacular trip to the friendliest little town….if you have any questions, email me at holly@matsonsolutions.com