Wine Touring Along the Yellowstone Trail in Washington
By Curt Cunningham
May 2019

Washington State is second only to California in premium wine production, contributing millions of dollars annually to the state's economy. Washington wines are highly regarded worldwide, with the Washington Wine Commission reporting over 900 wineries, 350 grape growers, and 50,000 acres of vineyards as of 2017. This puts Washington's wine industry almost on par with Napa Valley. Positioned at the same latitude as France's renowned Bordeaux and Burgundy regions, Washington is well-suited for producing high-quality wines.

Washington's wine country spans 14 federally recognized American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), or appellations. The historic Yellowstone Trail winds through most of the state's major wine regions, except for the Columbia Gorge. For wine enthusiasts and craft beer lovers alike, exploring the Yellowstone Trail in Washington is a must.

The History of Wine in Washington

The roots of Washington's wine history trace back to the 1820s when the Hudson's Bay Company planted grapevines in their gardens at Fort Vancouver. Later, in the 1850s, settlers who traveled the Oregon Trail began planting grapes for personal use. However, Prohibition in the 1920s stalled commercial wine production.

After Prohibition was repealed in 1933, the wine industry was slow to recover. Initially, grapes such as the Concord variety, better suited to the cooler, wetter western side of the state, were grown. It wasn’t until the 1960s that wine grapes began to flourish in eastern Washington, and by the 1970s, winemakers like Gary Figgins of Leonetti Cellar were putting Washington wine on the map. His Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon was recognized as one of the finest wines in the country.

Walla Walla: A Growing Wine Destination

Walla Walla has emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most renowned wine regions in the U.S., rivaling California in popularity. Known historically for its sweet onions and wheat, Walla Walla has evolved into a premier wine destination, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. With 1,600 acres of vineyards spread across 500 square miles, the region boasts numerous world-class wineries.

Walla Walla is divided into five main wine districts: Downtown, Southside, Westside, Eastside, and the Airport. Beginning your journey east along the Yellowstone Trail, you’ll first encounter Mill Creek Road, where award-winning wineries can be found. Just east of the trail is the Walla Walla Regional Airport, where World War II-era hangars have been converted into more than a dozen boutique tasting rooms. In downtown Walla Walla, there are 35 tasting rooms within walking distance of chef-owned restaurants, boutique hotels, and shopping.

The bulk of wineries lie just south of town in Milton-Freewater, while the Westside District, home to about 25 established wineries, is known for popular destinations like Waterbrook Winery and L’Ecole N° 41.

Yakima Valley: The Heart of Washington's Wine Country

As you leave Walla Walla on U.S. Highway 12, the Yellowstone Trail leads into Yakima Valley, one of Washington's premier wine-growing regions. Stretching 70 miles along the Yakima River, the valley is known for its agricultural abundance, producing over 40 different crops. The region is home to 120 wineries, 17,000 acres of vineyards, and five distinct AVAs.

Yakima Valley's sunny slopes create the ideal environment for growing high-quality grapes. Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and Syrah are the most prominent varietals. In addition to wineries, the region offers numerous craft breweries and distilleries. Yakima Valley is also a hub for fruit and vegetable production, with farmers' markets, u-pick farms, and fall harvest festivals providing plenty of family-friendly activities.

Red Mountain: A Small but Mighty AVA

Following the Yellowstone Trail west from Yakima, you’ll pass through the Red Mountain AVA, Washington's smallest wine region at just 4,000 acres. Despite its size, Red Mountain’s distinctive microclimate produces some of the state’s most sought-after grapes. The region is known for its robust Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot.

Prosser: The Birthplace of Washington Wine

Continuing on the trail, you'll arrive at Prosser, the birthplace of Washington’s modern wine industry. This small town is home to more than 30 wineries, with 12 located in Vintner’s Village, a walkable area featuring tasting rooms and the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center, a tribute to one of Washington’s wine pioneers.

Rattlesnake Hills and Zillah: Scenic Vineyards and Historic Landmarks

Next, the Yellowstone Trail (now Wine Country Road) takes you to the Rattlesnake Hills AVA near Zillah. This region, with vineyards reaching elevations of 3,000 feet, specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, and Riesling. Zillah is also home to the iconic Teapot Dome Gas Station, a quirky landmark inspired by the 1920s political scandal, now beautifully restored and open for visitors.

Woodinville: A Tasting Room Haven Near Seattle

For those traveling west on the Yellowstone Trail, the final wine region you’ll encounter is Woodinville, located just 30 minutes from Seattle. With over 100 wineries, distilleries, and breweries clustered along a three-mile stretch of Highway 202, Woodinville is a wine lover’s paradise. Many wineries from eastern Washington have opened tasting rooms here, including Columbia Winery and Chateau Ste. Michelle, the state’s oldest and most prestigious winery.

Woodinville’s wine district is divided into several sections, including the Hollywood District and the Warehouse District, which features more than 40 wineries packed into a one-mile radius.

Beyond Wine: Scenic Stops Along the Trail

Even if you’re not a wine drinker, the Yellowstone Trail offers spectacular views and numerous activities. From apple picking and cider pressing in the fall to exploring the historic 1913 brick-paved roads of Redmond, the trail is rich in history and natural beauty. Don’t miss Snoqualmie Falls and the luxurious Salish Lodge for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.

With so many diverse wine regions, scenic landscapes, and unique attractions, touring the Yellowstone Trail through Washington wine country offers an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.