Plan a day trip to Woodinville

Interested in indulging in a day of wine tasting? Escape the city and head to Woodinville, just a stone’s throw (30 minutes or so) from Seattle. Located in the Sammamish River Valley, it is a charming setting that makes for the perfect day trip. There, you’ll find tasting rooms where you can sample exquisite wines and unwind amid Washington’s wine country.

With more than 130 wineries and tasting rooms, Woodinville is a popular destination for oenophiles. It secured its place on the map when nearby Chateau Ste. Michelle introduced its first vintage cabernet sauvignon in 1976. Since then, it has been evolving as a premier wine destination, representing grape-growing regions throughout the state of Washington.

You don’t have to be a wine enthusiast to want to visit Woodinville. It also features an impressive culinary scene with some of the freshest produce in the region as well as plenty of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, biking, and hot air balloon excursions. Woodinville is made up of four districts: the Hollywood district, known for its restaurants and tasting rooms; the Warehouse district, providing a behind-the-scenes look at wine production; the West Valley district, offering a more relaxed pace; and Downtown, a lively center featuring restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

For a fun day of wine tasting, make sure to visit these Woodinville wineries on your itinerary. Just be sure to call ahead for a reservation first.

Chateau Ste. Michelle: Established in 1934, it is one of the most celebrated wineries in Washington. Offering a picturesque setting amid beautifully landscaped grounds, Chateau Ste. Michelle produces a diverse range of award-winning wines, including its renowned rieslings and cabernet sauvignons.

Delille Cellars: Offering tastings in its charming tasting room or on the scenic patio overlooking the Sammamish Valley, Delille Cellars is celebrated for its Bordeaux-style blends crafted with grapes sourced from some of the finest vineyards in Washington.

Novelty Hill-Januik Winery: Novelty Hill and Januik, two independent wineries, share a tasting room and winery overseen by famed winemaker Mike Januik. The family-run operation continues to offer a diverse selection of wines, including its heralded grenache and merlots.

Mark Ryan Winery: With a focus on producing small-lot, artisanal wines, Mark Ryan Winery has garnered a cult following for its bold and expressive red blends. Visitors can experience the passion behind each vintage in its tasting room located in the Old Redhood Brewery complex.

Jaine: White wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss a visit to Jaine. With a female winemaker, this boutique winery is dedicated to sustainable practices and careful vineyard selection. Jaine Patio, located at Matthews Tasting Room & Farm, offers an intimate setting where visitors can enjoy the refined nuances of its wines, including its celebrated chardonnays and rosés.