Walla Walla, WA. A lifestyle story… About a four hour drive northeast of Portland, more than 100 wineries draw wine lovers. The Walla Walla Valley is home to 1,800 acres of vineyards and a beautiful agricultural landscape. Photos from a recent trip give you an idea of what to expect.
The new Long Shadows winery and tasting room are dramatically located on a hill with a grand view of surrounding countryside with very simple modern architecture highlighted by Dale Chihuly’s glass art including a chandelier and several large organic pieces.
Spanish for bee, the Abeja winery was inspired by the simple beauty of farming the earth.
The luxury Inn at Abeja, is a lovely place to stay. It is a century-old farm with beautifully restored buildings in the rolling foothills of Walla Walla’s Blue Mountains.
Created by Portlanders Ken and Ginger Harrison, Abeja has private wine tasting just for guest of the inn.
Walla Walla’s L’Ecole wine is sold in all 50 states, Canada and Japan.
Woodward Canyon has a small restaurant on site and is now offering small plates in the Reserve House on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 11:30 AM.
There are some great restaurant located in downtown Walla Walla which receive good reviews:
- Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen – outstanding, organic menu with attention to detail, knowledgeable staff, great service.
- Brasserie Four – delicious french food, outstanding shellfish and dessert.
- Olive Marketplace & Cafe by T Maccarone’s – great for a wine country picnic, with a deli filled with gourmet cheeses, meats, pastries, coffee and a big menu for dining in – breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The farmer’s market in downtown Walla Walla is also worth exploring.
The Walla Walla Farmer’s Market is located & 4th and Main.
There’s a website with lots of news about the market: http://www.gowallawallafarmersmarket.com/
Of course you’ll find the famous Walla Walla sweet onions.
The people are friendly, too.
The Market is open during the weekends.
During a trip to the Walla Walla wineries, you’ll find passionate winemakers eager to talk about their unique blends. Here are a few links to check out…
- Abeja Winery
- Buty Winery
- Gifford-Hirlinger
- Fjellene Cellars
- Amavi Cellars
- Waters Winery
- Dusted Valley
- Sleight of Hand Cellars
- Trio Vintners
The experience is one to remember and don’t forget your camera!
