Visiting Walla Walla Valley for the first time? This guide covers everything you need, which AVAs to explore, which wineries to start with, what to budget, and the mistakes to avoid.
The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater has been called one of the world's great Syrah terroirs, its volcanic basalt cobbles hold heat and drain perfectly.
Understanding Walla Walla Valley
Walla Walla Valley is serious, Bordeaux-focused, small-town genuine, the Pacific Northwest wine capital. It spans several key sub-appellations:
- Walla Walla Valley
- The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater
- Rocks District
Where to Start
For first-timers, begin with established estates with professional staff and wines that represent the region well.
What to Expect
First-Timer Checklist
- Book tastings in advance, walk-ins are rare on weekends
- Eat before you start tasting
- 2-3 stops per day max
- Designate a driver or hire a car service
- Take notes on wines you love
Budget
Downtown Walla Walla has many walkable tasting rooms, park the car and walk from cellar to cellar Average tastings: $20-$50 per stop. Stay in Downtown Walla Walla.
Winery Profiles
Leonetti Cellar
Walla Walla, WA
Washington's first winery, 100-point Cabernet, by allocation only
L'Ecole No 41
Lowden, WA
Historic 1915 schoolhouse, Merlot, Semillon, Ferguson Estate, open daily
Cayuse Vineyards
Walla Walla, WA
Biodynamic cobblestone Syrah, cult producer, mailing list only
Woodward Canyon Winery
Lowden, WA
1981 founding estate, Old Vines Cabernet, open daily
Seven Hills Winery
Walla Walla, WA
Historic Seven Hills Vineyard estate, Cabernet and Merlot, open daily
Pepper Bridge Winery
Walla Walla, WA
Estate vineyards, The Trine flagship blend, open daily
K Vintners
Walla Walla, WA
Charles Smith's Syrah estate, Motor City Kitty, near-perfect scores
Gramercy Cellars
Walla Walla, WA
MS Greg Harrington's balanced Syrah and Cabernet, food-focused wines