Exploring Washington’s Wine Country
Renowned both locally and internationally, Washington state is the second largest wine-producing state in the U.S., with the number of wineries rapidly increasing in the past decade. Not only do the scenic vineyards create tourism opportunities and generate revenue, but they also offer residents the perfect excuse for a nearby getaway with stunning surrounding scenery, quality wine, and the opportunity to support some of our finest local businesses. Currently, Washington boasts 20 American Viticultural Areas, or AVAs, which are federally recognized designated grape-growing areas.
Washington State has some incredible winery destinations, but one of the most well-known ones is certainly Woodinville. With over 130 wineries across four districts (Downtown, Hollywood, Warehouse, and West Valley), there is something to be enjoyed by every wine connoisseur. For those feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of choice when visiting Woodinville, wine-tasting passes can help curate your experience and also provide a good starting point for your tasting adventure. Keep an eye out for bundles that provide good deals on lodging, meals, and experiences as well—Woodinville has perfected the art of creating special packages for any type of trip.
Sip & Savor: Wine Tasting Experience!
Located just a half hour from Seattle, a Woodinville day trip or “staycation” is a popular weekend event for city residents who want to slow down and taste a quality assortment of delicious local wines without spending too much time on the road. Excellent cuisine, beautiful scenery, live music, and more all add to the experience while visiting, so although the wine might be your main focus of the day(s), there is so much to be explored while spending a day or two in the popular destination. From Washington’s oldest and most well-known wine producers to newer more innovative wineries, you can be certain you’ll walk away with a bottle or two of a newfound favorite or your tried-and-true vino.
Although Washington is not yet in the first place when it comes to wine production numbers in the country—that distinction still belongs to our pals in California—wine aficionados should still absolutely make visiting Washington’s wine regions a priority, even if they’ve already experienced California’s wine country Napa Valley. Eastern Washington, where almost all of the state’s wine grapes are grown, has a more similar climate, dry and warm (thank you, rain shadow) to Napa Valley than it does to the western region of the state, where notoriously rainy climates create poor conditions for vineyards. Although Washington still has a way to go in receiving the reputation that Napa Valley has acquired over the decades, the state’s commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability attracts visitors from all over the world.
The state’s wine industry continues to grow and evolve at an impressive pace. Investing in a winery, particularly a Woodinville winery, which boasts accessibility and proximity to Seattle where so many of the state’s residents work, play, and live, is a savvy way to stay at the forefront of one of Washington’s most up-and-coming, lucrative industries. Furthermore, Sotheby’s International Realty’s robust network creates incredible opportunities for connecting with SIR partners in Washington and California, connecting buyers from out-of-state to exciting opportunities available to them through the power of a global brand.