Walla Walla Itinerary - 5/6-7
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.
Friday, May 6
9:45 a.m. pick-up from La Quinta
10 a.m - Doubleback (6)
3853 Powerline Rd. Fee: comped (90 mins.; waived with purchase)
Doubleback is a lifelong dream of retired NFL player, Drew Bledsoe. He has “doubled back” to his hometown of Walla Walla, WA. He’s producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon in a gravity-flow production facility with a stellar team of wine and hospitality professionals. The tasting fee includes a tour of the facility, flight of current releases and a barrel sample paired with charcuterie plate.
12:00 p.m. - Aluvé (6)
100 Aluve Ln. — Tasting Fee: $25 pp, waived with purchase
J.J. and Kelly Menozzi have dedicate their lives to the production of estate wines. Outside their doorstep, nestled on a ridge in the foothills of Walla Walla, is the Menozzi Estate Vineyard. Featuring Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot with true to the varietal winemaking styles. The vineyard is just on the doorstep of Chris Figgins’ newest vineyard project.
2:00 p.m. - Caprio Cellars (6)
1603 Whitely Road. Fee: Complimentary
Perched on a hillside and surrounded by estate vineyards—the light an airy tasting room is a great spot to kick back and relax. Enjoy big and bold red wines in a beautiful place. Owner and winemaker Dennis Murphy is a warm host. The tasting is not just complimentary-- it includes locally-sourced food pairings.
3:00 p.m. - Garrison Creek Cellars (6)
122 Hood Road — Fee: comped
A family-owned winery located in the heart of the 220-acres Les Collines Vineyard. An historic barn was renovated into a gravity-flow winery, complete with cellar. From the site in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, estate wines are bottle-aged for an extra year beyond the typical annual releases of the Walla Walla wineries. Nothing typical about Garrison Creek Cellars, you will be transported by the amazing views, smooth reds and friendly hospitality.
5:00 p.m. Return to the La Quinta (or go to Tranche)
~ Dinner Plans ~
Tranche Cellars
705 Berney Drive Fee: bottle service
Truly a slice of the good life! Tranche, a word meaning slice, delivers on your image of a luxurious wine country experience. Sweeping views, charming pasture and classic patio vibes.
The winery and tasting room is nestled in the Blue Mountain Vineyards. Enjoy a selection of approachable wines while a live band performs. Rolling grass fields, multiple food-trucks and an in-house chef make for a very social Friday night.
OR
Public House 124
124 E. Main Street
Walk-in option for cocktails or dinner at the locals’ favorite spot! Open 3pm until later, offering a fantastic local food program. Burgers, flatbreads, and salads with local ingredients and warm hospitality. Outside seating available. Food and cocktails are available for take-out as well!!!
Saturday, May 7
10:45 a.m. pickup
11:00 a.m. - Leonetti Cellar OR Figgins
2900 Melrose St — Tasting Fee: $20 pre-paid
While Leonetti Cellar is no longer open to the public, FIGGINS, the second generation of the family estate is offering a tasting experience at their production studio. You can try a selection of their Walla Walla Bordeaux blends and their Toil Oregon Pinot Noir.
1:00 p.m. - Va Piano Vineyards
1793 JB George Road Fee: $25 (waived with $50 purchase)
Enjoy premium Walla Walla red wine surrounded by the Va Piano Estate Vineyard. Offering patio seating, intimate pergolas, as well as inside tasting experiences. Kick back, relax and sip!
Curated Walla Walla to provide lunch at this stop.
2:30 p.m. - Saviah Cellars
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.
4:15 p.m. - Woodward Canyon
11920 W. Highway 12, Lowden, WA — Tasting Fee: $15 pp (waived with purchase)
Located adjacent to the historic Lowden School House is the second winery to be established in Walla Walla. Woodward Canyon is a family business with great wines and an easy going attitude. First and second generation work side-by-side to produce stunning Chardonnay and Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon.
5:45 p.m. - Return to La Quinta
~~~~ Big night out for dinner ~~~
TMAC’s
80 N Colville St
Proprietor, Tom Maccarone, is a local with a huge following. Known for good taste, great flavors, and seasonal menus — you will find a lot to love. Craft cocktails and something for everyone on the inspired menu.
Passatempo
215 W Main Street
Pasta to perfection in this Italian eatery. Beautiful concept, craft cocktails and expert hospitality. Kale caesar, housemade focaccia and a classic bolognese. Reservations fill up quickly - so book today.