Posted in Washington
August 27, 2020
Walla Walla, Washington Was Just Voted America’s Best Wine Region For 2020, And We Agree
Spend a day or two exploring Walla Walla and you’re bound to notice something rather interesting… the people there seem genuinely happy. Restaurant servers greet you with a smile, winemakers are excited to explain their processes, and people on the streets are clearly enjoying themselves. There’s truly a positive energy that radiates through the valley, and fortunately, it’s contagious.
Whether it’s the culinary scene, award-winning wine, higher education, or simple relaxation that brings you to town, you’ll probably leave with a smile. You may be tempted to simply not leave at all.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
While this is a well-earned and fantastic achievement, it didn't happen overnight.
Since the 1970s and 80s, the winery count has grown to more than 120, and it seems as if the valley is just getting started.
However, this award is the result of public vote, so it feels especially rewarding.
However, if you're going to come for a weekend (and you really should) we recommend adding the following spots to your itinerary.
Ashley is known for crafting wines that reflect her own palate, and everything is hand-crafted from vine to bottle. And with plenty of outdoor space for tasting, you'll be able to soak up plenty of sunshine, which Walla Walla enjoys 188 days out of the year.
Of course, these hours will change as Washington continues to re-open, so check the website or call before you plan to visit.
They're best known for their freshly baked artisan breads and pastries, but they also serve fantastic lunch (and breakfast) fare.
They serve Naples-style pizza that will transport you straight to Italy. You're welcome to take your meal to-go or enjoy it on the large outdoor patio, which is perfectly set for social distancing.
Tastings are offered Monday - Saturday by appointment only. And if you have a wine-loving group, do yourselves the favor of booking an ATV Vineyard Tour when current conditions allow. While they're temporarily suspended, the Tranche team plans to resume them as soon as possible.
This little restaurant is located in a gas station, but don't let that deter you. Chef Andrae Bopp, a St. Louis native, brings years of culinary training and experience to the table, and the food is unbelievably good.
They also serve a breakfast menu so tasty, they've been awarded the Best Gas Station Breakfast in America.
Take your food to one of Walla Walla's many local parks or an open vineyard and enjoy it to the fullest.
Everything here is made from scratch by a team with three generations of culinary experience.
They are the stuff dreams are made of. If you don't have a sweet tooth, split an order with the table, but do not pass them up.
They have an entire section of the menu dedicated to Benedicts, and they're all scrumptious.
Brad grew up in Buffalo, but was understandably too charmed by Walla Walla to leave.
The tasting fee allows you five tastes of anything on the menu, and choosing isn't easy. Eternal Wine is currently open 7 days a week, so you'll have plenty of chances to go.
Founder Casey McClellan was born and raised in Eastern Washington, and he and his family are proprietors of one of the area’s first vineyards. Their dedication to the local community is apparent, and as an added bonus, the wine is flawless.
They're open daily from 4 p.m. - close, although reserving this beautiful private room requires an advance reservation.
They also brought old-fashioned Southern hospitality, a delightful ambiance, and some of the best cocktails in town.
They also have plenty of veggies in the Field section of the menu for those who prefer to eat light.
We highly recommend making a reservation for this place. It's quite popular, and rightfully so.
There's never been a better time for Washingtonians to stick close to home and enjoy our own backyard, so plan a trip to America's Best Wine Region whenever you're ready to travel.
Have you been to Walla Walla lately?
Address: 705 Berney Dr, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 125 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 201 E Main St, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 209 E Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 212 N 3rd Ave, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 1249 Lyday Ln, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
Address: 706 W Rose St, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
