When you think of wine in the U.S., the first few places you think of are probably California's Napa Valley or Sonoma. While those are certainly wonderful wine regions, you might be missing out on an area of The Evergreen State that is equally as sweet (or dry, whichever wine you prefer). Prosser is home to more than 30 Washington wineries, thus the moniker of the "wine capital of Washington State."

The Yakima River Valley is known for its fertile land and abundant sunshine. So it’s no wonder that it is such a popular area for wineries and vineyards in Washington.

It is actually designated as an American Viticultural Area, or AVA for short.

Prosser, known as the birthplace of Washington wine, is heavily populated with vineyards. In fact, there are over 30 wineries here.

Not only are these great places to visit for wine lovers, but they are also lovely spots to truly take in the gorgeous agricultural landscapes of the area.

Here are a few of my favorites that are sitting on my bucket list!

Alexandria Nicole Cellars has two locations, one off Lee Road and another, which includes tiny houses you can rent, off Sonova Road.

The 267-acre vineyard and estate is located within Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Enjoy wine tastings here or visit and/or reserve one of their other spaces in Washington including Audacity Wine Bar in Seattle and the Woodin Creek Tasting Room.

Domanico Cellars has a Seattle location as well as a wine bar in Prosser, but the location off of North Crosby Road in Prosser is actually at the vineyard.

You can do a tour here with the winemaker and owner or schedule a tasting. Choose from a variety of wine types like Cabernet Franc, Old Vine Chardonnay, and Malbec, to name just a few.

Located on Frontier Road, 14 Hands Winery is named after the wild horses that used to roam this region of the state where grapes are now grown. They were described as being "14 hands high."

There are several options here when it comes to tastings, such as a large format tasting, which includes light fare, and a Bundt Bites and Wine experience, which pairs wine with bundt cakes from a local bakery. And that's just a few examples of experiences you can book here.

Worked up an appetite while tasting and touring? While you’re here, be sure to head downtown to check out the restaurant scene.

Some of my recommendations include the Prosser House and Horse Heaven Saloon.

Learn more about what you can do during a visit to Prosser besides some excellent wine tasting in Washington State.

Looking to make an evening or two out of your visit to Prosser? Check out what Booking has to offer in accommodations near Prosser.

Have you ever visited the wine capital of Washington State? What are some of your favorite Washington wineries? Tell us in the comments!

What goes well with wine? Cheese, of course! Check out these cheese shops in Washington.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/washington/cheese-wonderlands-in-wa/