Walla Walla Itinerary - 10/22
Walla Walla was once the Washington Territory's capital stretching from the Olympic Peninsula and Puget sound, over the Cascade Mountains to the dry Columbia Plateau and rolling Palouse Hills. Walla Walla has been home to tribes, missionaries, fur traders, the Hudson's Bay Company, Idaho gold rushers, U.S. cavalry, and briefly by Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery.
Walla Walla (named by local tribes as the land of many waters) is nestled into a valley in the Blue Mountain's foothills. It features rich fertile soils from years of glacial flooding, which suits many fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Italian immigrants planted vineyards four generations ago, and one of those descendants started the first winery. The first Walla Walla wine was released in 1977 by Leonetti Cellar.
Wednesday Restaurant Recommendations
TMACS
Hattaway’s on Alder
Brasserie Four
Downtown tasting suggestion: Bruno’s by Va Piano is open until 7 p.m. with ample indoor seating. No reservation is needed. Michelle is warm, fun, and knowledgeable about Walla Walla wine. Charcuterie, Snacks available.
Thursday, October 22 - Southside Vineyard District
11:30 a.m. pickup from Marcus Whitman Hotel
12 p.m. Saviah Cellars (4)
1979 J.B. George Rd. — Fee: $15pp (waived with purchase)
Few wineries in Walla Walla have the range of wines offered by the crew at Saviah Cellars. From stunningly earthy Syrah from the estate Funk Estate to light and fruity Barbera, this is a crowd pleaser.
Bonus Tasting
Option #1 Balboa Winery - ($10pp)
Nestled in the vineyards of Walla Walla Southside District, Balboa is a laid-back winery with a wide selection of estate wines. There is something for everyone, but we recommend the Gruner Veltliner for those seeking a crisp white and the Pandemonium for those looking for an earthy wine.
OR
Option #2 Canvasback - ($15pp)
Napa Valley put American Cabernet on the map and Canvasback is trying to do the same for the Red Mountain AVA Cabernet. The hot appellation produces full-bodied wines, expertly handled by Washington native and winemaker, Brian Rudin.
2 p.m. Rotie Cellars (4)
84328 Trumbull Ln, Milton-Freewater — Fee $30 pp. (waived with $50 purchase)
If you want funky, terroir-driven, Rhone-style wines, you need look no further. Set in the Rocks Distric AVA vineyards, you can enjoy a great variety of distinctive wines all with the same earthy character.
4:15 p.m. - Monteillet Fromagerie (4)
109 Ward Rd., Dayton, WA — Fee: $20 pp (Please bring cash)
Enjoy a truly French-inspired afternoon sampling cheese on a 32-acre farm and fromagerie. Bubbling with hospitality and artistry is Joan Monteillet. You will be seated all together for an afternoon of sampling, savoring and conviviality. Wine pairings will be available fore $35 pp. A perfect way to spend the sunset!
6:30 p.m. - Return to Marcus Whitman Hotel
Dinner at Public House 124
124 E. Main Street
Walk-in option for dinner at the locals’ favorite spot! Open later. This gastropub has great cocktails, wine and indulgent meals. .
