Walla Walla Favorites

Favorite thing: We didn't see a single California wine on any wine list anywhere in Walla Walla. They were mostly from Walla Walla or other places in Washington, and Oregon. Some wine lists added some variety with token French, Italian, Argentinian or Spanish wines. But no California wines. I was impressed by how the local businesses were so supportive of the local industry. As a staunch supporter myself of locally grown produce and locally produced products, I loved the fact that California wines were noticeably absent.

Favorite thing: The red wine production of the Walla Walla area has grown by leaps and bounds in the last decade. The number keeps changing, but there are now about 80 local wineries. They are all small boutique wineries by California standards. This is a case where bigger does not mean better. Almost every Walla Walla wine we tried was excellent and would stand up to the best of California red wines.

Fondest memory: The Walla Walla area produces red wines almost exclusively. Some vineyards are experimenting with whites, with most of those bringing the grapes in from cooler climates. Many of the red Walla Walla wines are receiving ratings in the 90s by the various wine publications and reviewers. Many are also winning major awards.

The Walla Walla wine industry is still in its infancy. I predict that the industry will continue to grow in Washington. Walla Walla is not a heavy tourist area yet, but that will change over the next 10 years, as will the countryside, as more wheat and alfalfa fields are transformed into vineyards.