Falling in Love with Walla Walla Valley: Wine, Warmth, and Wanderlust

Falling in Love with Walla Walla Valley: Wine, Warmth, and Wanderlust

There are places you visit, and then there are places that steal your heart. For me, Walla Walla Valley was that kind of place. From the moment we pulled Wanda into Patterson Vineyards, we knew this trip would be special. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just someone who appreciates warm hospitality and stunning landscapes, this valley has a way of making you feel completely at home.

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Our Stay at Patterson Vineyards

Our home for the weekend was Patterson Cellars, nestled in the scenic Southside District of Walla Walla. With its stunning views of the Blue Mountains, the estate is a peaceful haven for wine lovers. John Patterson founded the winery in 2000 and has since expanded it into five tasting rooms throughout Washington State, but the Walla Walla location holds a special place. With a background in natural sciences and years of experience at Quilceda Creek, John brings a unique, scientific approach to winemaking. His focus is on crafting approachable, new-world wines that reflect consistency and quality every year.

At Patterson, we sampled a wide variety of wines—from robust red blends to crisp whites and lively rosés. Their Bordeaux-style BDX blend was a standout, full of depth and complexity. And for dessert wine lovers, their late-harvest Roussanne offers a sweet finish to a perfect day of tasting. One of the most memorable aspects of our stay was the vineyard strolls, where we could soak in the tranquil atmosphere and appreciate the vines that make these wines so special.

Patterson Cellars also offers unique experiences, such as wine and charcuterie pairings or a behind-the-scenes tour of the winemaking process. For those traveling by RV, the Harvest Hosts program allows you to park on the estate and enjoy the beauty of the vineyard overnight. There's truly something magical about sipping wine while watching the sunset over the vines.

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Following the Wine, Food, and Fun Itinerary

Our weekend was carefully curated by winemakers CJ Augustine and Forest Rogers-Phillips of August Forest Wines. These two passionate winemakers have not only perfected their craft but also created experiences that allow visitors to dive deep into Walla Walla’s wine culture. Their suggestions led us to hidden gems, unique tasting rooms, and local restaurants that made the entire trip unforgettable. Their wines were so good that we left with 16 bottles to savor the memories of our trip long after it ended.

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A Day in Walla Walla: Adventures and Wine

We started the day at Colville Street Patisserie, where the buttery croissants and rich espresso gave us the perfect energy boost. This patisserie, which has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 2005, is famous for its handmade French pastries, artisanal cakes, and rotating gelato flavors. Owners David Christensen and Tiffany Cain have built a little slice of France in Walla Walla, offering everything from delicate macarons to creamy house-made chai lattes.

After indulging in pastries, we explored Walla Walla’s quirky shops. Hot Poop, an old-school record store, was a highlight. Its quirky name and eclectic vinyl collection made it an amusing stop. Just down the street, we visited Bright's Candies, a nostalgic candy shop that has been part of the community for years. Stepping into Bright’s is like traveling back in time, with every corner offering a new treat.

For something a little more mystical, we stopped by McGovern's Parson Herb Company, a tiny herbal shop that felt like stepping into a witch’s cottage deep in the woods. The smell of dried herbs filled the air as we browsed shelves filled with handcrafted remedies. We left with a calming lavender tincture and a sense of having discovered one of Walla Walla’s best-kept secrets.

The Drayman House: A Unique Wine Experience

Next on our itinerary was The Drayman House, a members-only social club for wine enthusiasts. Here, Forest Rogers-Phillips of August Forest gave us a personal tour, making the experience feel intimate and exclusive. The Drayman House is not just a tasting room but a space where winemakers, collectors, and enthusiasts can gather to discuss their shared passion. Housed in a former freight storage hub, the building’s historical charm blends seamlessly with modern elegance. Every glass of wine told a story, and being part of this community, even if only for a day, made us feel connected to the region.

Lunch at The Walls Vineyards

Our next stop was The Walls Vineyards, a winery that marries artistic whimsy with winemaking excellence. Founded by Mike Martin, the winery’s name pays homage to the nearby Washington State Penitentiary, known locally as "the Walls." The winery’s labels, created by New Yorker cartoonist Joe Dator, feature the playful character Stanley Groovy, giving each bottle a distinct personality.

The tasting room, with its contemporary design, is a great place to enjoy a flight of wines while admiring the creativity of the labels. We paired our tasting with a wood-fired pizza on the outdoor patio, taking in the sweeping views of the valley. Each wine had its own story—La Lutte, for example, translates to "the struggle" in French and is a tribute to the challenges faced by winemaker Ali Mayfield in her personal life. Every sip felt like a celebration of resilience and creativity.

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A Glimpse Into Walla Walla's Wine Legends: Pepper Bridge Winery

Pepper Bridge Winery is a name that resonates with any wine enthusiast who knows Walla Walla. This winery, co-founded by Norm McKibben and Jean-François Pellet, played a key role in transforming the region into the world-class wine destination it is today. Their wines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, and tasting them feels like experiencing a piece of Walla Walla's history.

We particularly enjoyed their Cabernet Sauvignon, which highlighted the rich soils and perfect growing conditions of the Walla Walla Valley. Every glass was a reminder of the passion and craftsmanship that goes into making each bottle.

Stunning Views at Kinhaven Winery

We ended our day of tasting at KINHAVEN Winery, located on the south side of the valley. The views here are some of the most breathtaking in Walla Walla, with the Blue Mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the vineyard. As we sipped on their Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, we couldn't help but linger, soaking in both the incredible wines and the beautiful surroundings.

Dinner and a Show at Passatempo Taverna

To finish the day, we headed to Passatempo Taverna, a rustic Italian restaurant connected to The Walls Vineyards. This taverna, housed in a historic building, is a hub for food, wine, and community. Founder Mike Martin wanted to create a synergy between these elements, and he succeeded beautifully. The outdoor garden patio, with its bamboo and greenery, was the perfect spot for an alfresco meal. Passatempo’s menu is all about house-made pasta and slow-cooked Italian dishes. We savored every bite of the Amatriciana, paired with a glass of August Forest Rosé.

Larie’s Ending Thoughts

Walla Walla Valley may be known for its wine, but what really won me over was the warmth of the people and the sense of community everywhere we went. Whether you're sipping world-class wines, indulging in hand-crafted pastries, or discovering hidden herb shops, Walla Walla has a way of capturing your heart. I know it captured mine, and I can’t wait to return with an empty wine rack and an open heart.

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