Walla Walla Washington! Home to amazing wines and wineries; host to wine enthusiasts greatest adventures. Walla Walla is the Native American term for "place of many waters" which has changed in the eyes of winos around the world. Walla Walla is now a "place of many vineyards"; at least within the community. Walla Walla was not always a dominant wine region having grown tremendously with time. In the 1900's, there were only six wineries but today this valley hosts over one hundred wineries stretching 1,900 acres of premium grape growing land. The wine boost came from a combination of great soil, early developers, an infusion of California and French wines, and the motivation to create world class wines with a definitive identity to the region itself.
Red wine is the predominant creation in this valley: Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,Cabernet Franc, and Malbec; Rhone grapes like Grenache and Syrah and even Tempranillo from Spain. However, white wines can be found as well. Winemaker Charles Smith has created an insanely tasteful Riesling which pairs extremely well with the spiciness of Asian inspired cuisine. His Kung Fu Girl Riesling has slight green apples and pear flavors on the palate allowing for an easy drink and lasting finish.
Walla Walla Valley may be associated with the state of Washington but approximately 40 percent of the vines are located on the Oregon side. This is what most attribute to the cool flavors associated with the wines. The grapes are allowed to grow in such climates that they stress temperatures causing for an incredible taste in the bottle. If you ever find yourself taking a trip to the West Coast, California may be the most talked about wine region but it may not be the only location to try new wines. You never know what gems you may find in this ever-growing wine region. As always, stay classy!
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