Walla Walla Itinerary - 09/26
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, September 25
Drinks or dinner at Public House 124
124 E. Main Street
Walk-in option for arrival night cocktails or dinner at the locals’ favorite spot! Open later. Food and cocktails are available for take-out as well.
Saturday, September 26 — Southside Vineyard Area
10:15 a.m. pick-up from the Marcus Whitman Hotel
10:30 a.m. Balboa Winery (4)
4169 Peppers Bridge Rd. Fee: $10 pp (waived with $100 purchase)
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.
12 p.m. Sleight of Hand Cellars (4)
1959 J.B. George Rd. Fee: $20 pp (60 mins; waived with $50 purchase)
Started in 2007 to make excellent wine and have fun — this endeavor has had numerous wines in the Top 100 wine lists of Wine Spectator Magazine. Traci will walk you through a selection of current releases while the harvest crew is busy making wine in view. Choose from 1000’s of vinyl records or check out Traci’s garden!
Lunch
Bomb Tacos features authentic Mexican street food.
2 p.m. Brook & Bull Cellars (4)
1249 Lyday Ln Fee: $10 pp (60 mins; waived with one bottle)
Owned and operated by one of the U.S. top 40 under 40 winemakers, Ashley Trout produces big and bold red wines. She also supports VITAL wines, which raises money for free health care services to the underserved.
3:15 p.m. Tranche (4)
705 Berney Drive Fee: $15 pp (waived with two bottle purchase)
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.
A popular spot for early evening libations on Friday and Saturday for couples, groups, and families.
