Wine is produced in all 50 states and not surprisingly California produces the largest amount of wine of any state. But can you guess what is the second largest wine producing state? Washington, home to over 940 wineries. Its climate is great for growing grapes, in particular, Riesling, Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
You can reach many wineries and tasting rooms in Woodinvale, about 40 minutes northeast of Seattle. Woodinvale is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms which makes visiting a great way to spend a day on any vacation to the Seattle area. I had the pleasure of visiting several tasting rooms in Woodinvale on a recent trip to Seattle. While the landscapes are completely different than Napa Valley, the quality of the wines and the passion of the wine makers is the same.
On my trip, we visited a large producer, Chateau Ste. Michelle and a few small producers, including Barrage Cellars and Celaeno.
Barrage is a family owned winery and a one man operation. The wines were great and you could taste the passion of its owner and winemaker. His focus is on 100% varietals. Celaeno Winery is also a small family run winery, known primarily for its Syrah. I opened a both of Petite Verdot this evening and it is still fantastic.
As much as I adore Napa Valley and Sonoma, I highly recommend that you take the time to visit other wine regions, especially Washington.
Next month, I will visit Walla Walla, which is one of the oldest wine regions in Washington. I can’t wait to visit and share it with you all!
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