WINE TRAVEL S
Grape escape!
Savor the best of Washington’s Walla Walla Valley By Hana-Lee Sedgwick
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ucky for us, some of California’s finest wine regions are just a stone’s throw away. Exploring the wineries of the Central Coast is one of my favorite activities, both professionally and personally. However, my wine adventures often take me beyond our local vineyards to other regions, throughout California and to other states. One place I’ve enjoyed visiting over the years is the Walla Walla Valley in Washington. Walla Walla may be famous for its sweet onions, but it’s become a premium location for growing wine grapes, too. Situated along the Washington-Oregon border, the Walla Walla Valley AVA is home to the highest concentration of wineries in Washington State, featuring over 135 wineries and nearly 3,000 acres under vine. 64
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Sharing a similar latitude to that of Bordeaux, France, it’s no surprise that grapes like cabernet sauvignon and merlot thrive, but Walla Walla is also renowned for its syrah (the second most planted grape). And, though you will find some white varietals on tasting lists, such as chardonnay and viognier, most are sourced from other areas of Washington, since only five percent of Walla Walla’s total planted acres are dedicated to white grapes. In short, if you’re a red wine enthusiast, this is a great spot to visit. Here’s how to make your trip extra memorable. Where to stay One of my personal favorite places to stay is the Inn at Abeja. This century-old farmsteadturned-inn and winery, located just a few
miles outside of town, is inarguably one of the most serene retreats in the region. Each spacious guest room and cottage is a nod to the property’s rich history, adorned with vintage decor and historical photographs, while plush in-room amenities and thoughtful details ensure a stay feels extra relaxing. As a guest you’ll be treated to a delicious twocourse breakfast each morning, and a tasting of Abeja’s own acclaimed estate wines during your stay. On weekends the inn’s on-site restaurant welcomes guests and locals to savor a multi-course menu of seasonal delicacies, with optional wine pairings. If you’d prefer to be within walking distance to downtown Walla Walla’s shops and restaurants, The Finch is a great budgetW W W.FOOD–HOME.COM