The Yakima Valley is filled with world class wines and is becoming recognized as one of the oldest and most uniquely diverse wine regions in the state of Washington. This region of wineries is somewhat remote and nestled among the foothills of the sunny Yakima Valley approximately four hours from Seattle and located on the western side of the state. The sunny slopes of the foothills provide the perfect growing conditions for the production of many complex wines like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Syrah. The valley is home to nearly 40 wineries and over a third of Washington State's vineyards.
The Yakima Valley region consumes over 11,000 acres of premium grape vines. The western boundary of the appellation extends east to the Kiona Hills near Richland, Washington. The northern boundary travels along the crest of Rattlesnake Hills and along the southern edge of Horse Heaven Hills to the tip of Toppenish Ridge. Traveling along Interstate-82 provides visitors a convenient route to the winery region, as most wineries are scattered throughout the Yakima area landscape. Some the valley's world class wineries include Oasis Farms, Eaton Hill Vineyard, Hogue Ranches, Goose Ridge Vineyards, Tudor Hills Vineyard, Wyckoff Farms, and Red Willow Vineyards to name just a few.
The Yakima Valley is home to a diverse array of dining restaurants that offer local flare and a large collection of Yakima wines. Favorite restaurants amongst locals include the Apple Tree Restaurant, Bella an Italian Deli, Bon Vinos Bistro and Bakery, Greystone Restaurant, and Second Street Grill. For more of a chain quality eatery, the Olive Garden in the heart of Yakima is available for visitors and features much of the same wine selection as the local favorites. Most of the produce offered at the restaurants is locally grown.
The region caters to the wine tour circuit. As a result, visitors will find ample lodging and wine bars scattered throughout the Yakima region. Visitors can enjoy overnight accommodations while frequenting the local area wineries. There are a large variety of Bed and Breakfasts along the countryside as well as general lodging and RV parks that provide and exploration of the rural lifestyle found in the area. Some of the general lodging offered includes various Best Western's, Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott, and Comfort Suites. Some of the popular bed and breakfast inns include 4 Seasons River Inn, A Touch of Europe Bed and Breakfast and Fine Dining, Cozy Rose Inn, and the Hillcrest Farm Guest Cottages.
A calendar listing of wine events occurring throughout the year is available at the Yakima Chamber Office. During the summer months tasting rooms and lawn events at most local wineries are open to the public. Movie nights and musical events are also prominent during this season. In early September a harvest party at Silver Lake Winery takes place and features local music, limbo contests, grape stomping, and lots of delicious food and wine.
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