There is so much to learn and discover about Walla Walla wine. The Walla Walla Valley AVA has the highest concentration of WA wineries, clocking in at 120, with almost 3,000 acres of vineyards. While we’re known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah here in Washington, there are many wineries growing small blocks of other varietals. This creates interesting blends and fun finds, making tasting Walla Walla wines one of the best pastimes.
On a visit out to Walla Walla, wine tasting is always a great addition to your stay. There are so many lovely vineyards and tasting rooms to explore. Hopefully, you enjoy big, bold reds and dry, crisp whites—you’ll find a lot of that in Walla Walla wine country. The climate is ideal for growing here, the season traditionally spans April to the end of October, and since Walla Walla translates to “many waters” irrigation is no problem in the Valley.
When visiting this part of Washington, our Walla Walla Bed and Breakfast is the ultimate getaway in wine country. We offer 5-star luxury for an amazing romantic vacation. Our location is central to many tasting rooms, with more than 100 wineries within a 35-mile radius. Thankfully, we also make wine tasting as easy as possible, taking care of transportation for you. Tour Walla Walla wine country in-style by stretch limo! Start planning your next getaway and book with us today!
Come Explore the Beauty of Walla Walla Wine Country
Washington State is home to 14 American Viticulture Areas or AVAs. The main AVA near our Kennewick Bed and Breakfast is the Walla Walla Valley AVA, which, as we mentioned above, has the highest concentration of wineries in the state. One of our favorite wineries is Woodward Canyon, known for their beautiful award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon. This tasting room is just under 20 minutes from our Inn and makes for a lovely first stop.
Here are 6 things to know about the Walla Walla Valley AVA:
- The first vines in the Walla Walla Valley AVA were planted as far back as the 1850s by Italian immigrants to this area. Unfortunately, prohibition from 1920-1933 had a big effect on winemaking in Washington and basically wiped it out until the 70s. It wasn’t until 1984 that this AVA was recognized by the federal government.
- Of the almost 3,000 acres of vineyards in this AVA, 95% is red varietals. The grape make up is 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Syrah, and 16% Merlot.
- These hardy red grape vines take to the soil type here, which is a mix of basalt, silt deposits, flood sediments, and cobblestones.
- You’ll also find delicate white varietals like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Washington wine makers tend to lean towards crisp and clean whites, opting for stainless steel barrels over French Oak.
- Within the Walla Walla Valley AVA is the Rocks District of Milton Freewater AVA which was founded in 2015. This area, known for Syrah, is home to well-known producers such as the Betz Family Winery, Buty Winery, and Grosgrain Vineyards. This AVA is about a 35-minute scenic drive from our Inn, and we highly recommend planning a tasting of Walla Walla wines here.
- The Walla Walla Valley AVA straddles the state line of Washington and Oregon. The majority of the vineyards, about two-thirds, reside on the west side in Washington State.
On your stay with us at our Walla Walla Bed and Breakfast, you’ll want to book our curated wine tours by stretch limo. It’s one of the best ways to truly experience all that Walla Walla has to offer. Better yet, you don’t have to worry one bit about transportation. Taste wine to your heart’s content and make it home safe and sound to the Inn. There’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of your guest suite after a day exploring Walla Walla wine country.
Sip Some Walla Walla Wine Poolside at Cameo Heights
While wine tasting out in the Valley should be on your list of activities while staying at our Walla Walla Bed and Breakfast, be sure to schedule in some time in our pristine pool area. Take in the sound of our gentle waterfall while sipping Walla Walla wine and lounge back on comfy chairs in our garden oasis. This is really one of the prime spots to relax at Cameo Heights, we suggest spending as much time as possible on your summer getaway.
As you retreat inside, you’ll find seven special guest suites, each with its own atmosphere evoking a different part of the world. The Italian Suite offers French doors revealing gorgeous views of the Walla Walla River Valley and the pool area below. Each appointment and detail creates a romantic and old world ambiance of the Italian Riviera. This continues into the spa bathroom with impressive marble work. It’s truly a place to sit back and relax. Book your next stay with us today!